To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what her policy is on the extent to which planning procedures apply to the erection of agricultural polytunnels; what discussions she has had with Herefordshire county council on its proposals for planning procedures for polytunnels; and if she will make a statement. (131020)

The Government have not set out a specific planning policy on agricultural polytunnels. Whether something counts as development will depend on the circumstances of the case.

A recent High Court decision on Tuesley farm concluded in that case the polytunnels did constitute development; however, local planning authorities must consider each case on its merits.