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ID sylw: 107912

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: TERRA

Asiant : Lichfields (Birmingham)

Whilst Terra recognises the importance of best and most versatile (“BMV) agricultural
land, in relation to economic and environmental benefits, Terra do not consider that the
SWAs approach is necessary.
2.119 The NPPF is clear that planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance
the natural and local environment by “recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the
countryside, and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services –
including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural
land…” (Para 187b). Notwithstanding this, again, the SWAs should have regard to
paragraph 16(f) of the NPPF (i.e. serve a clear purpose and avoid ‘unnecessary duplication).
2.120 To this end, Terra considers that a policy that largely duplicates the protections afforded to
BMV in the NPPF would not ‘serve a clear purpose’ and would fail the test of compliance
with national policy.