British Summer Fruits chairman Laurence Olins has warned that a controversial decision by the Planning Inspectorate could have profound environmental effects as well as an economic impact for the soft-fruit industry.
Under appeal, the Planning Inspectorate this week ordered the removal of polytunnels and temporary worker accommodation from the Hall Hunter Partnership’s Tuesley Farm in Surrey, following judgment under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990.
“The long term effect of this judgment on the British soft fruit industry might be profound, both environmentally and economically,” said Olins. “The great benefit of polytunnels is they reduce the level of pesticides by 50 per cent and enable a reliable, locally grown industry strengthening rural communities, increasing employment and reducing imported produce.
“Our growers are responsible second or third generation farmers with the countryside close to their hearts. They live and work in rural communities, developing successful local businesses. The British soft fruit industry is one of British agriculture’s main success stories.
“Without polytunnels, there would be a much smaller British soft fruit business.”
The judgment is unlikely to have any effect on the 2006 soft-fruit season, but there is concern for the precedent that has been set in the long term from the National Farmers’ Union.
“Polytunnels are essential in allowing British growers to deliver high quality local fruits like strawberries, raspberries and cherries to consumers for more months in the year, meeting public demand which would normally be met by growers from the US and the Continent,” said Richard Hirst, chair of the NFU horticulture board.
“The responsible use of these temporary structures has been vitally important to the development of the British soft fruit industry. Polytunnels have not only helped us extend the growing season but have delivered a number of significant environmental benefits, slashing food miles and dramatically reducing the need for pesticides. We are now able to deliver a safe, delicious and high quality product for longer helping us to support and strengthen rural economies.
The NFU and BSF have drawn up a joint code of practice for growers regarding polytunnel use.
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