Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that planning policies in National Landscapes support (a) the viability of family farms, (b) agricultural diversification and (c) the provision of housing for agricultural workers.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) makes clear that planning policies and decisions should support the development and diversification of agricultural businesses, whilst also being clear that development should conserve and enhance the landscape and scenic beauty of National Landscapes.

Between 16 December 2025 and 10 March 2026, we consulted on a new NPPF. That consultation, which can be found on gov.uk here, included proposals giving substantial weight to development that maintains and enhances farm viability and sustainability, as well as policies relating to the safeguarding of protected landscapes.

We are currently analysing the feedback received and will publish our response in due course.