TTV26 - Development in the Countryside

The LPAs will protect the special characteristics and role of the countryside. The following provisions will apply to the consideration of development proposals:

1. Isolated development in the countryside will be avoided and only permitted in exceptional circumstances, such as where it would:
   1. Meet an essential need for a rural worker to live permanently at or near their place of work in the countryside and maintain that role for the development in perpetuity; or
   2. Secure the long term future and viable use of a significant heritage asset; or
   3. Secure the re-use of redundant or disused buildings and brownfield sites for an appropriate use; or
   4. Secure a development of truly outstanding or innovative sustainability and design, which helps to raise standards of design more generally in the rural area, significantly enhances its immediate setting, and is sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area; or
   5. Protect or enhance the character of historic assets and their settings.
2. Development proposals should, where appropriate:
   1. Protect and improve public rights of way and bridleways.
   2. Re-use traditional buildings that are structurally sound enough for renovation without significant enhancement or alteration.
   3. Be complementary to and not prejudice any viable agricultural operations on a farm and other existing viable uses.
   4. Respond to a proven agricultural, forestry and other occupational need that requires a countryside location.
   5. Avoid the use of Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land.
   6. Help enhance the immediate setting of the site and include a management plan and exit strategy that demonstrates how long term degradation of the landscape and natural environment will be avoided.