KEETCH CALLS FOR CONTROL OF POLYTUNNELS

12.00.00pm GMT Mon 9th Feb 2004

Hereford's Lib Dem MP, Paul Keetch, has contacted Herefordshire Council to ask that the review of its voluntary code of practice on the use of polytunnels by horticulturalists, due to begin this month, should be as rigorous as possible.

The code, which has been in operation for almost twelve months, was intended to balance the needs of horticulturalists (who increasingly use the large plastic tunnels) with the protection of the landscape and the feelings of local communities, especially where areas of outstanding natural beauty are involved.

"Any review should include detailed, specific information and should consult the public," said Mr Keetch. "If the review indicates that improvements are needed, it is important that the code is adapted to include further controls.

" We are told that these are temporary structures, yet many Herefordians' experience is that 'temporary' too easily becomes 'permanent'.

"The response I have had from DEFRA indicates that the government prefers to wipe its hands of this issue, leaving it to local planning authorities to determine individual cases. That requires rigorous monitoring, and the Council must ensure this is done."