Local Development Plan

Options for Key Issue 9: Facilitating Sustainable Rural Economic Development in the Countryside
Option 9A Preferred Option
Retention of the existing policy-led approach:
This option retains the status quo in that it is considered
that existing policy facilitates suitable sustainable
economic development opportunities within the
countryside.
Reason
This option provides the same level of protection to the rural area as currently provided which is likely to
benefit the rural economy and support rural communities, while protecting or enhancing rural character and
the environment. This option is in accordance with existing regional policy provided in the RDS and the
regional strategic objectives of the SPPS for economic development in the countryside.
Option 9B
Retention of the existing policy-led approach but in
addition allow for the possible creation of ‘Rural
Business Development Zones’ in a limited number of
key/strategic locations:
In order to further stimulate economic activity in the
rural area, this option could facilitate appropriate edge
of settlement locations for Rural Business Development
Zones.
This option is in conformity with the existing policy-led approach but allows opportunity for identification of
sites for small scale business developments in the countryside that may not benefit from permission (owing to
their size or scale) for working from home. Sites could be identified on the edge of certain settlements where
a need is identified and developed as part of the Local Policies Plan.
Have your say! Please use the Council’s Preferred Options Response Form to submit your response to this Preferred Option.
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Key Issues and Options