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From Herefordshire Farmers Address Drought with New Reservoir Project

How could local agricultural difficulties in Herefordshire affect Herefordshire Council's planning approach?

Already happening What happens if… A possibility worth considering, not a forecast.

Council allows large reservoir to proceed under permitted development rights In response to growing concerns over drought and water shortages affecting Herefordshire's crops, Herefordshire Council has ruled that prior approval is not required for a large reservoir planned by Corbett Farms Limited. This reservoir, located at Ox House Farm near Shobdon, is designed to store approximately 22,600 cubic metres of water, capturing rainfall and surplus winter flows from Pinsley Brook. The Council's decision allows the project to proceed under agricultural permitted development rights, a move that supports the long-term viability of farming operations facing increasingly difficult conditions.

Reported by 2 independent outlets Written Oct 14
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How it reaches Herefordshire Council

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The facts so far

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Why it matters

The ability of local authorities like Herefordshire Council to streamline planning for water infrastructure is critical for the long-term resilience of the agricultural sector. If regulatory hurdles remain high, farmers may struggle to secure the necessary water supplies to maintain production, directly impacting food security and the economic viability of local farms.

This decision reflects a growing trend where agricultural reservoirs are becoming common features as farms seek to improve water resilience against climate change. The NFU has been actively calling for planning changes to make it easier for farmers to build such water-storage facilities across the country.

What we don't know yet

  • Will this specific ruling set a precedent for other agricultural water infrastructure projects in the county?
  • What is the long-term impact of the reservoir on the local watercourse, Pinsley Brook?

Is this still moving?

Gone quiet Reached 2 outlets in its first 24 hours
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33%

What would change this answer

The Environment Agency raises objections to the reservoir plan.The Council may be forced to reconsider its ruling or impose stricter conditions on the project, slowing down the development.
The Council announces further policy changes to simplify agricultural planning.It would signal a broader shift in regulatory approach to support farming, potentially accelerating similar projects across the county.

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