What Is a Call for Sites?
A Call for Sites is a process used by councils to invite landowners, developers and promoters to submit land for consideration through the Local Plan process. It does not grant planning permission, but it allows the council to assess whether land could help meet future development needs.
For farmers, a Call for Sites can be an important opportunity to put farmland forward before key planning decisions are made. This is particularly relevant where land lies close to a settlement, has potential access and could provide housing, employment land or community infrastructure.
A strong submission should explain why the land is suitable, available and achievable. It should also address access, constraints, ownership, timescale and the type of development proposed.
Key points for farmers and landowners include:
Site Location
The council needs to understand where the land is.
Ownership
The land must be available and controlled by willing parties.
Access
Potential highway access should be identified.
Constraints
Flood risk, ecology, landscape and heritage issues are reviewed.
Capacity
The submission may estimate homes or employment land.
Deliverability
The council considers whether development can realistically happen.
Why Farmers Should Not Miss Call for Sites Opportunities
If farmland is not submitted, the council may not properly assess it as a future development option. Missing a Call for Sites window can mean waiting years for another Local Plan review.
Farmers with edge-of-settlement land should therefore monitor council consultations carefully and take advice before deciding not to submit.
The right planning strategy can make a major difference to the value achieved.
How Value My Land Can Help With Call for Sites
Value My Land can identify whether a Call for Sites is open, assess whether your farm land is suitable, prepare a clear submission, explain development potential and help position the land for future Local Plan consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Farm Land Review
Value My Land provides a free initial assessment for farmers who want to understand planning potential, development value and the best route to maximising land value.
Submit Your Farm Land for Future Development Consideration
Contact Value My Land today for a free, no-obligation review of your farm land, including planning potential, land promotion options and possible development value.