Planning Policy is central to the future of Rural Development, Nicholson says
UUP MEP Jim Nicholson said this week that future planning policy is central to the future of rural development.
In a statement Mr Nicholson said,
“Rural society has been on a downward spiral for many years now and I do not need me to rehearse the problems again. Unfortunately there are no easy solutions and we cannot wave a magic wand. What concerns me is that there will not be sufficient funds to achieve a sustainable future for the rural economy under the second pillar.
“The rural economy has evolved over the years. In recent times there has been an increased reliance on environmental projects , which can be a help but on its own is no panacea for all the problems facing the rural economy.
“In Northern Ireland there is no chance of developing the rural economy unless there is a fundamentally different approach taken by our planning service. They are living in the past looking through rose tinted glasses to a time that no longer exists. Planning is central to the future of the rural economy. Currently with post office, school and other vital services being removed, the very fabric of rural life is being torn apart.
“Who will be the active participants in that economy? Do we need a more soft touch approach that allows small and medium sized businesses to develop in rural areas ? We must, however, proceed with great care in this area. Future planning policy in rural areas must balance the need for development with the need to preserve the character, heritage and identity of our rural heartlands.
“Problems with planning are having a destabilising effect on the rural economy compounded by young people not entering the agricultural industry, as they do not see it as a viable career option. The average age of those actually involved in the agricultural industry increases year after year.
“While I recognise the need for a pragmatic planning policy and have every respect for the many involved I believe we require an in depth look at where the Planning Service has gone wrong, and how we can develop a policy that meets the needs and requirements of our fast and ever–changing rural and urban communities.
“If we are to achieve anything then we must be adventurous and innovative. We must encourage more SMEs and micro development in rural areas. If a farmer, his son and daughter has a good idea to develop on their farm to diversify they should be encouraged to develop and expand, not to be forced to the nearest town or village - this is the way forward. We cannot afford to live in a time warp. The way forward for rural development is one of vision, one of confidence and above all we must look to the future not the past.”