Applying for a permit in line with the Environment Agency’s environmental permitting process is being made easier for producers through the provision by BPEX of revised model application templates, available for downloading from the organisation’s website.
The templates, which relate to the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR) process, are designed to help producers with permit applications by approaching the task in a thoroughly “logical and structured way”.
“Until recently, pig producers have had to complete a generic form to obtain the environmental permit,” said BPEX environment and buildings research co-ordinator, Sue Rabbich. “However, the Environment Agency has now streamlined the process, bringing back a specific application form for pig farming.
“This is good news for producers and, while it doesn’t change the technical content required, it should make the application process more straightforward than it has been previously.”
Acknowledging, however, that some producers are still likely to find the application process daunting, Ms Rabbich added that BPEX has completely revised and updated its model templates in line with the updated application process.
“Our templates will take applicants through the process in a logical and structured way, helping them to understand the process inside out,” she said.
“Producers can adapt the model templates to make them specific for their application. And, while they’re not a ‘gold-plated standard’, they can help producers to make a good application in a time and cost-efficient manner.
“I’d also like to encourage producers to take the opportunity to utilise the BPEX team for technical updates and training when it comes to the completion and implementation of on-farm regulations.”Â