What the updated NPPF means for rural communities

Tue 22 Sep 2026

The Government’s updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published on 17th August, introduces a number of changes that could have implications for rural businesses and landowners across England, including here in Lincolnshire. The revised framework places greater emphasis on supporting agricultural viability, rural diversification and water resilience.

For rural businesses and landowners, these changes could create new opportunities to consider investment, diversification and the future use of their land and buildings.

A positive outlook for rural businesses

Rural business development is encouraged through Policy E4, which supports "the development and diversification of agricultural and other land-based businesses". The policy also recognises the importance of enhancing farm viability while supporting domestic food production.

The revised framework provides support for a wide range of rural development opportunities. This includes agricultural diversification projects, farm shops, greenhouses, tourism uses, leisure uses and other forms of development that can help support the long-term future of rural enterprises.

For many landowners and farming businesses across Lincolnshire, the updated policy framework may provide an opportunity to revisit projects that may previously have been difficult to progress, or to consider new ways of supporting the long-term viability of their business.

Increased support for farm resevoirs

The updated NPPF also places greater emphasis on water security, drought resilience and the infrastructure needed to support farming businesses.

Under Policy W4 (Water Infrastructure), substantial weight should be given to proposals that improve water supply capacity and security for existing users, including agricultural businesses. The policy also states that applicants should not be required to demonstrate the need for water infrastructure developments.

For farming businesses across Lincolnshire, this could provide greater support for on-farm reservoirs and other water infrastructure projects aimed at improving resilience during periods of drought.

Alongside this, the Government has announced funding support for reservoirs, which may provide further opportunities for agricultural businesses considering their long-term water requirements.

New opportunities for rural landowners

Recent changes to planning policy may also present new opportunities for landowners with land on the edge of existing towns and villages.

Land that was previously considered less favourably in planning terms may now merit reconsideration, particularly where it represents a logical and sustainable extension to an established settlement.

Consequently, landowners may wish to consider submitting a Call for Sites to their Local Planning Authority to obtain an initial indication of the site’s development potential. A Call for Sites submission does not guarantee that a site will be allocated for development or that planning permission will be granted, but it can be a useful first step when considering the longer-term potential of land.

What does this mean for rural landowners and businesses?

For rural businesses considering investment, expansion or diversification, the revised NPPF provides additional policy support and may be a useful opportunity to review existing plans or consider what may be possible in the future.

At Masons Rural, Lauren Chamberlin our Planning & Development specialist works with landowners, farmers and rural businesses across Lincolnshire, providing advice on planning opportunities and helping clients navigate the planning process.

Whether you are considering diversification, agricultural development, water infrastructure or the potential future development of land, an early conversation can help you understand your options and the planning considerations involved.

With planning policy continuing to evolve, it may be a good time to review your plans and consider what opportunities could be available to you.

Lauren Chamberlin, Planning & Development, Masons Rural
01507 350511
[email protected]