UFU president John McLenaghan
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has welcomed Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s decision to support a review of Shared Environmental Services (SES), describing it as an important step towards improving accountability within Northern Ireland’s planning system.
The UFU said the decision reflects concerns it has consistently raised regarding the impact prolonged planning delays are having on farming families and rural businesses seeking to invest, modernise and develop their enterprises.
Commenting on the Council’s decision, UFU President John McLenaghan said, “We welcome Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s decision to call for a comprehensive review of Shared Environmental Services. In particular, we support the recognition that there must be greater accountability and proper political oversight of the service.
“Farmers are not asking for planning rules to be ignored. They are asking for a planning system that is transparent, proportionate and delivers timely decisions. Too many agricultural applications are becoming caught up in lengthy delays, creating uncertainty for farm businesses and holding back investment across the rural economy.”
The Union said one of the most significant elements of the motion is its recognition that responsibility for planning decisions ultimately rests with local councils, with SES providing specialist advice to inform those decisions.
Mr McLenaghan continued, “Planning authorities must remain the decision-makers. Advice from specialist bodies is an important part of the planning process, but accountability for planning decisions rests with councils. Maintaining that distinction is essential if confidence in the planning system is to be restored.
“A review of the governance, operation and accountability of Shared Environmental Services is a positive step and one that has the potential to improve confidence for applicants, councils and rural businesses alike.”
The UFU believes an efficient and accountable planning system is essential if farmers are to invest in improved infrastructure, strengthen environmental performance and ensure the long-term sustainability of their businesses.
With Mid and East Antrim Borough Council now writing to the remaining ten councils seeking support for a collective review of SES, the Union is encouraging local authorities across Northern Ireland to back the proposal.
Mr McLenaghan added, “Northern Ireland’s farming industry is being encouraged to improve productivity, enhance environmental outcomes and build resilience. None of that can happen without changes to the current planning system.
“We hope other councils now follow Mid and East Antrim’s lead by supporting a collective review of Shared Environmental Services. Farmers deserve a planning system that is efficient, accountable and capable of supporting sustainable rural development while continuing to meet our environmental obligations.”
