Additional advice on the implementation of planning policy for new dwellings on farms was released this week.

Policy CTY 10, which governs new dwellings on farms, was amended to allow consideration of an alternative site elsewhere on a farm away from farm buildings where a justifiable case could be made. This additional guidance on PPS 21 will assist applicants in the preparation of these types of planning application.

In response to the public consultation, PPS 21 was amended to allow an alternative site to be used on a farm where it can be demonstrated there are either health and safety issues or genuine plans for business expansion.

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Following publication of PPS 21 on 1 June this year, it has become apparent that additional guidance is needed on this particular policy to advice applicants and their agents as to the correct approach to follow in preparing these types of planning application.

Applicants and their agents must provide information to accompany their planning application which demonstrates why it is not appropriate or feasible to position a new dwelling near to other buildings on a farm.

Planning Service will assess this information in reaching a decision and it is anticipated there will only be a few cases where we will have to consult with other relevant authorities, which may include Environment Health and the Health & Safety Executive, in respect of the information provided.

A spokeswoman for the Planning Services said: "Applicants or their agents should not make contact with any relevant authorities prior to submitting a planning application."

The guidance is available on the Planning Service website at www.planningni.gov.uk

(GK/KMcA)