UK livestock sector might be hit hardest by Land Use Framework
Livestock farmers may have to bear the brunt of changes to the UK’s land use, which could see 9% of the current land move away from food production.
Much of England’s land dedicated to the animal-based sector and Defra’s 12-week consultation on its Land Use Framework aims to coordinate land use decisions across social, economic and environmental objectives, addressing challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss.
The consultation, launched by environment secretary Steve Reed, promotes sustainable land management practices and supports better decision-making by various stakeholders, including local and national governments, businesses and communities. The Framework is part of broader initiative to engage in a national conversation about land use in the UK.
Food security
Reactions have been generally supportive, although organisations had expected the Land Use Framework itself rather than a 3-month consultation. The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) said the driver for a Land Use Framework was the need for better spatial planning to help all the demand on land – to unlock growth, deliver on environmental commitments and ensure food security. It was not intended to replace the planning system.
CLA president Victoria Vyvyan emphasised the importance of land managers being at the heart of any new policy, ensuring they can adapt to evolving needs without unnecessary constraints.
The NFU said that transparency, engagement, and a government that was willing to listen was key for a land use framework that delivers for consumers, the environment and British agriculture.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw said the UK was a small island nation with huge demands being made on land, including requirements for biodiversity net gain, leisure and recreation and critical national infrastructure.
“With competition for land ever increasing, and to deliver on the government commitment that food security is national security, we must have a land use plan in place, underpinned by sound science and evidence that has British food at its heart and ensures we make the best use of our most productive land,” he said.
Martin Lines, Nature Friendly Farming Network chief executive, said: “The Land Use Framework is a vital step in shaping landscapes that support farming, food and the environment. By embracing land’s multi-functionality, we can safeguard food production, tackle climate change and protect nature, with farmers and communities leading the way.”
Sue Pritchard, chief executive, Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, added: “Steve Reed’s land use consultation is a crucial step forward. We’re glad to see it focusing on delivery mechanisms and involving all stakeholders in shaping a framework that balances national and local priorities.”
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