The Farmer's Planning Podcast - We're Back — Class R, Planning Appeals & Campsite Rights Explained

This podcast could save you a 5-figure planning mistake — if you find it before your next application goes in. Mel and Guy are back. New venue. New series. And a planning landscape that looks quite different to when the Farmers Planning Podcast last aired. In this first episode of the new series, Melanie Bingham-Wallis and Guy French from Foxes Rural sit down to walk through three of the most important planning changes affecting farmers and rural landowners right now — changes that could open up significant new income streams on your farm, or equally, catch you out if you're not up to speed. What's covered in this episode: Class R Permitted Development — doubled to 1,000 sq.m One of the biggest permitted development changes in recent years quietly came into effect in May 2024. Class R, which allows agricultural buildings to change use to flexible commercial, business and leisure purposes without full planning permission, has had its floorspace limit doubled from 500 sq.m to 1,000 sq.m. Mel explains what this means in practice, what uses are now possible, and how to make the most of it on your farm. Temporary Campsite Rules — up to 60 days per year Farmers can now use their land to host temporary campsites for up to 60 days per year under permitted development rights. This is a real income opportunity for many holdings, but there are conditions and limitations you need to understand before you start taking bookings. Guy and Mel break it all down clearly. The New Planning Appeal Process The planning appeal system has been reformed. If you've had a planning decision go against you — or if you're about to submit an application and want to know your options if it goes wrong — this is essential listening. Mel explains what has changed, how the new process works, and what farmers need to know to protect their interests. Whether you're converting a barn, diversifying into tourism, or navigating a planning refusal, this episode gives you the knowledge to move forward with confidence — and avoid the kind of costly mistakes that come from not knowing the rules. 🦊 Foxes Rural are planning permission experts for farmers across East Anglia and beyond. For advice on permitted development, Class Q, Class R, and all aspects of rural planning, visit foxesrural.co.uk Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a farmer who needs to hear it.