Planning guidance launched to boost rural economy in Wales

Planning guidance Technical Advice Note 6 (TAN 6) – Planning for Sustainable Rural Communities has been launched, that will boost the rural economy and increase the provision of affordable housing.

The guidance will make it easier for businesses to set up in rural areas and should help enterprises already located in the countryside to grow.

It relaxes control over development in the countryside whilst still ensuring that a measured approach is taken and will make it easier for farmers to build a new home on their land so that they can pass their business on to a younger person, whilst continuing to live on the farm.

The Welsh Assembly Government expects Local Authorities to take the new planning guidance into account immediately.

Environment Minister Jane Davidson said: "The planning system must help ensure that appropriate development takes place at the right place and time, by providing sufficient land for the affordable homes and employment opportunities that our rural communities need."

"The guidance published ensures the right environment to allow rural businesses to invest and grow in order to provide local employment opportunities, increase local prosperity and reduce the need for travel to work."

Further information:
Welsh Assembly Government