FAQ’s

Side ventilation in polytunnels refers to the installation of openings along the sides of the structure that can be opened or closed to control airflow. This type of ventilation is designed to facilitate the movement of air through the polytunnel, helping to regulate temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels inside.

Types of Side Ventilation:

1. Roll-up Side Panels: These are manual or automatic systems where the sides of the polytunnel can be rolled up and down.
2. Louvered Vents: These are vents that can be adjusted to control the amount of airflow.
3. Mesh Panels: These allow air to flow while keeping pests out.

Benefits of Side Ventilation

1. Temperature Control: Proper ventilation helps to maintain optimal growing temperatures by allowing hot air to escape and cooler air to enter.
2. Humidity Regulation: Excess humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and fungal diseases. Side ventilation helps keep humidity levels in check.
3. Air Circulation: Good air circulation reduces the risk of plant diseases and encourages stronger, healthier plant growth.
4. Pest Management: By allowing air to move freely, side ventilation can help reduce the population of pests and insects that thrive in stagnant air.
5. Energy Efficiency: Ventilation can reduce the need for additional cooling systems, thus saving energy.

Do You Need Side Ventilation in Your Polytunnel?

Climate Considerations:

• Hot Climates: If you are in a hot climate, side ventilation is essential to prevent overheating and to maintain a suitable growing environment.
• Cooler Climates: Even in cooler climates, ventilation is necessary to prevent excessive humidity and to promote healthy air circulation.

Type of Crops:

• Heat-Sensitive Plants: Crops that are sensitive to high temperatures will benefit greatly from side ventilation.
• High Humidity Tolerance: Plants that thrive in high humidity might not need as much ventilation, but good airflow can still prevent disease.

Polytunnel Size:

• Large Polytunnels: Larger structures benefit more from side ventilation due to the higher volume of air that needs to be circulated.
• Small Polytunnels: Smaller structures might manage with roof vents or end vents, but side ventilation can still improve overall air quality.

Seasonal Use:

• Year-Round Growing: If you plan to use your polytunnel year-round, having side ventilation will allow you to adjust to seasonal changes more effectively.
• Seasonal Use: For seasonal use, consider the predominant weather conditions during your growing season and decide if side ventilation is necessary.

Conclusion

Side ventilation is a valuable feature for polytunnels, providing essential benefits such as temperature control, humidity regulation, and improved air circulation. Whether or not you need it depends on your specific climate, the crops you are growing, and the size and use of your polytunnel. In many cases, side ventilation can significantly enhance the growing conditions inside your polytunnel, leading to healthier plants and more successful harvests.

Whether you need planning permission for a polytunnel depends on various factors, including its size, location, and the specific regulations of your local planning authority. Here are some key points to consider:

General Guidelines

1. Size and Height:
   • Smaller polytunnels used for personal gardening in a residential garden are often considered temporary structures and may not require planning permission.
   • Larger polytunnels, especially those used for commercial purposes, may require planning permission, particularly if they exceed a certain height (typically around 3 meters) or cover a significant area.
2. Location:
   • Polytunnels located within the curtilage of a dwelling (i.e., within the boundary of your garden or residential property) are less likely to require planning permission.
   • If the polytunnel is situated in a protected area, such as a National Park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), or conservation area, planning permission is more likely to be needed.
3. Use:
   • Polytunnels used for personal gardening and horticultural purposes are less likely to require planning permission compared to those used for commercial agriculture or retail purposes.
   • If the polytunnel is intended for livestock housing or as a permanent structure, planning permission is more likely to be required.
4. Impact on Neighbors:
   • Consideration is given to the impact on neighboring properties. If the polytunnel causes significant shading, blocks views, or creates other nuisances, planning permission might be necessary.

Specific Considerations

1. Temporary vs. Permanent Structures:
   • Polytunnels are often regarded as temporary structures, which can sometimes exempt them from planning permission requirements. However, this can vary based on local regulations.
2. Agricultural Exemptions:
   • In some regions, agricultural operations may benefit from certain exemptions. Farmers using polytunnels as part of their agricultural practices might have different rules compared to residential use.
3. Local Planning Authority (LPA):
   • Regulations vary by region and country. Always check with your local planning authority (LPA) for specific guidelines. They can provide detailed information based on your location and circumstances.

Steps to Determine if You Need Planning Permission

1. Consult Your Local Planning Authority: Contact your LPA to get specific advice tailored to your situation. They can provide information on local regulations and whether your polytunnel requires planning permission.
2. Check Local Development Plans: Review local development plans and regulations, which may outline specific requirements or exemptions for polytunnels.
3. Assess the Structure and Use: Consider the size, height, location, and intended use of your polytunnel. This information will be crucial when consulting with your LPA.

Conclusion

While many smaller, residential polytunnels do not require planning permission, larger or commercially used polytunnels, or those in protected areas, are more likely to need approval. To ensure compliance and avoid potential issues, always verify with your local planning authority before setting up a polytunnel.