The government has backed calls for flexibility to allow the building of new homes within existing farms to help farmers retire.
The move will help free up farmhouses to get the next generation into the industry.
The Government has published a consultation on the draft revised text of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
It contains a number of changes that will see increased opportunities for building homes for village communities and creating opportunities for rural business growth and change.
The CLA which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses has reacted to the proposals that contain a number of lobbying wins for the organisation.
'Widespread'
CLA President Tim Breitmeyer said the housing need is "widespread" throughout rural England.
“It is good to see the Government recognise the specific needs of those in the countryside and be bold in its approach to addressing them,” Mr Breitmeyer said.
“The CLA has long argued that in the right circumstances, land outside of existing settlements can play an important role in meeting the housing and business needs of a rural community.
“By backing this policy, the Government is showing a marked shift in its attitude to how planning authorities should treat development opportunities outside of towns and villages.”
Mr Breitmeyer said the CLA are "pleased" to see the Government propose entry level exception sites as another means to provide affordable homes for those who live and work in the countryside.
He said such people are "struggling to get their foot on the housing ladder."
Homes for retiring farmers
The Government has also backed calls for flexibility to allow the building of new homes within existing farms to help farmers retire and free up farmhouses to get the next generation into the industry.
The draft text contains a new exception from restrictions on building in open countryside for those taking majority control of a farm business.
Mr Breitmeyer continued: “The Government has recognised this simple change will help to smooth the notoriously difficult process of farm succession in time for an expected increase in retirement driven by Brexit.”
