East Suffolk Council has introduced a new Rural Development Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) designed to guide rural development and ensure it aligns with the area's unique character and needs. This SPD complements the East Suffolk - Suffolk Coastal Local Plan and East Suffolk - Waveney Local Plan, offering detailed guidance on various rural planning issues, including worker dwellings, annexes, residential curtilage expansion, barn conversions, equestrian development, tourism accommodation, small-scale renewable energy, and wastewater management.

The SPD's development process was participatory, with public consultations helping to shape its content. This inclusive approach ensured the final document reflected the community's perspectives and concerns, resulting in a more effective and applicable set of guidelines.

For rural stakeholders, the SPD provides a crucial roadmap for sustainable development. It encourages economic growth through rural businesses and tourism while safeguarding East Suffolk's landscapes and heritage. Additionally, it addresses environmental sustainability, promoting small-scale renewable energy and effective wastewater management

The Rural Services Network’s Winning the Rural Vote Campaign, is seeking to highlight rural planning and affordable housing in political agendas. Our campaign calls on all political parties to focus on rural issues, emphasising the importance of accessible and affordable housing in rural communities. The campaign aims to ensure that rural planning supports local needs and promotes vibrant, sustainable communities. East Suffolk Council’s new SPD is an exceptional example of guiding rural development in a way that balances growth with preservation.