Although part (b) of this policy acknowledges the role of tourism as a key sector of the countryside economy, it is felt that this needs to be widened to include all leisure and recreation pursuits compatible with a countryside location.

Part (a) of the policy acknowledges of the role of agricultural practises in shaping the local distinctiveness of the landscape. However, enterprises providing leisure and recreational pursuits also play a role in maintaining landscape character. For example, angling centres provide tranquil areas with diverse ecological habitats, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. We recommend that Paragraph (a) (iii) of the policy be amended to make reference to "leisure and recreation activities compatible with a countryside location" alongside "agricultural practises and woodland management".

In addition, provision of leisure and recreational facilities allow for easier access to, and enjoyment of, the countryside for visitors and residents alike. Farm diversification often results in the creation of leisure and recreation uses, and paragraph (b) (i) should reflect this. Indeed, paragraph 30 of PPS7 recognises "that diversification into non-agricultural activities is vital to the continuing viability of many farm enterprises".

Rural based leisure and recreational enterprises include fisheries and angling centres, which are often found alongside agriculture and forestry. The fishery use supports the continuation of traditional farming practises such as coppicing and hay-making that serve to maintain the character of the countryside.

In addition, by providing for a tranquil recreational activity in the countryside, fisheries and angling centres have enormous potential to improve access to the countryside. Angling is increasingly popular, with 4 million people nationally participating in the sport and an estimated annual expenditure of over £3 billion a year (ref: EA Our Nation's Fisheries). Many city dwellers who would otherwise not visit the countryside do so because they visit angling centres to fish and enjoy peace and quiet.

To this end, Paragraph (a) (vi) could refer to leisure and recreation as a means of improving access to the countryside, e.g. "...working to improve access to, and enjoyment of the countryside through extending opportunities for leisure and recreation compatible with a rural environment".

In addition, Paragraph (b) (iv) should be widened to include "leisure and recreation" as well as "tourism", to ensure that all types of compatible leisure uses are fostered and continue to contribute to the countryside economy.