10.1 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires that Local Plans support the sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business and enterprise in the rural areas, promote the development and diversification of agricultural and other land based rural businesses, support sustainable rural tourism and leisure developments that benefits businesses in the rural area and promote the retention and development of local services and community facilities. There is also the requirement for the Local Plan to address the needs of the food production industry and any barriers to investment that planning can resolve. The Council wishes to support a sustainable rural economy and rural economic development of an appropriate scale and the following policies seek to address this.

New build development for economic development purposes in the rural area

10.2 The NPPF states that planning policies should support economic growth in rural areas in order to create jobs and prosperity by supporting sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business and enterprise in rural areas, through well designed new buildings.

Development should have regard to the Kent Downs AONB Farmstead Guidance produced by English Heritage (now known as Historic England), Kent Downs AONB, KCC and Kent Design.

Policy E15 - New build development for economic development purposes in the rural area

Well-designed new build development for economic development purposes will be permitted in sustainable locations, including development of businesses in situ, at a scale and form compatible with their rural location.