Midland Farmer December 2021

December 2021

Midland

Farmer Serving the farming industry across the Midlands

Christmas message: Archbishop of Canterbury pays tribute to farmers

News Prize-winning apprentices at machinery show Arable Recovery in winter cropping area – survey Machinery LAMMA prepares to celebrate 40th year Livestock Industry call for urgent action on methane

Herefordshire hero Martin Williams tackles phosphate levels in river Wye

Professional Services Farmland market remains buoyant Clodhopper Local homes for local people

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Midland Farmer

OPINION Johann Tasker

EDITORIAL Editor: Johann Tasker | T: 07967 634971 E: johann@ruralcity.co.uk

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Midland Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the Midlands (Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire) or companies supplying goods and services to the sector. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares.

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Farm Investment Fund worth considering – for some

T

he pros and cons of Defra’s £27 Farm Investment Fund have prompted much debate within the industry during recent

weeks.

The fund aims to help increase farm productivity by offering grants of up to £25,000 towards the cost of equipment and technology. A separate funding stream covers larger ‘transformational’ capital items with grants of up to £500,000.

Defra farm minister Victoria Prentis says investing in new technology and equipment has a real impact on productivity and yields – and benefits the environment too as the country strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

As well as regular items of farm machinery, suggested purchases include solar powered electric fences, water treatment systems that use ultraviolet light rather than chemicals and cameras for monitoring livestock.

So far so good. But this isn’t exactly free money. Applicants must select from a price list of approved items and the grants are akin to a discount when buying a piece of machinery rather than receiving a free piece of kit.

Contents

SHORT OF STORAGE SPACE?

Farm investment fund now open – see page 37

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Vol 10 • No 12 • December 2021

News . ................................................................... 4 Arable . ................................................................. 9 Profile: Overbury Enterprises.................... 11 Profile: Martin Williams...............................19

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Concern has been voiced that the price list of eligible items fails to reflect recent increases in machinery costs. This means any discount is less generous than many anticipated.

Grants are limited to new items only. This means some farmers may find they can get a better deal by purchasing secondhand or nearly new equipment rather than forking out for a brand new piece of machinery.

There has also been criticism over the tight deadline for applications. Farmers must apply by midday on 7 January for the equipment and technology fund – and by 12 January for initial applications to the transformation fund.

That said, applications are worth considering – although without letting the tail wag the dog.

It would be silly to make a unnecessary purchase just to save a few quid – but farmers who genuinely need some new kit could make a welcome saving.

RIDBA

Rural & Industrial Design & Building Association

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 3

News Archbishop of Canterbury pays tribute to farmers

T

he Archbishop of Canterbury has paid tribute the work done by farmers for the UK’s wellbeing, environment and economy – and for feeding the nation.

Speaking in the run-up to Christmas, Justin Welby said the coronavirus pandemic had reminded people that farmers were key workers. For society to flourish, it was vital to support farmers – and rural communities and parishes, he said.

Mr Welby made the comments to more than 100 invited guests as he delivered the annual NFU Henry Plumb lecture last month in London. The lecture is named in honour of Lord Plumb, who served as NFU president from 1970 to 1978.

As well as producing affordable and nutritious food, farmers had a key role to play in supporting rural communities, said Mr Welby. In return, people could support farmers by eating locally and seasonally, he suggested.

Food standards The archbishop also discussed the role of the church in supporting rural communities. There was a need to educate people about food and farming he suggested – and for more food served in schools to be British-sourced.

On food standards and trade, Mr Welby said: “Our farming communities can lead the way on food standards,

tionships overseas.

“Making the most of the overseas market post-Brexit is crucial. We need to get our trade deals right to protect the world-class British standards of farming – bad deals risk exporting environmental and animal welfare harms and destroying farmers livelihoods.

“

animal welfare, trade and exports that make people’s lives better and more prosperous around the world.”

Highlighting the opportunity to increase exports of British food and drink, the archbishop said the farming community had a unique opportunity to be at the heart of building rela-

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby says farming must flourish

Our farming communities can lead the way

The government needed to partner with farmers to build global ambition and increase the British food brand identity globally, said Mr Welby. British farming could become a global leader in sustainable, climate-friendly, high standard food production.

“Now is the time to harness these challenges, from the local to the global level, and transform them into opportunities. We can put down firm roots in values and communities, and those roots enable us to be resilient and flexible when any storms come.”

Strong roots would help farmers be ambitious and innovative. “That way we can ensure we fulfil our potential and flourish together, as the farming industry cares for our wellbeing, our environment and our economy for many years to come.”

MPs launch study into rural mental health

A

n influential group of MPs is investigating ways to improve rural mental health – and is inviting farmers to have their say.

The inquiry by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee wants to identify the mental health challenges faced by people in the countryside – and highlight ways to resolve them.

Committee chairman Neil Parish said: “Mental health matters to us all. But for some people working in rural communities there are special factors that are often hid-

4 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

den in a world that sometimes feels like it is driven by those in towns and cities.

“I’m a farmer myself and I know how people in our communities can sometimes suffer from isolation. That’s not to mention how insecure incomes, volatile weather and many other issues can be real stress factors.”

Urging other farmers and interested parties to take part in the inquiry, Mr Parish said the committee would recommend ways the government could improve mental health provision in the countryside.

The Farm Safety Foundation reports that

that one farmer a week in the UK dies by suicide, while research by Edinburgh University has shown that the rate of suicide in the veterinary profession is at least three times that of the general population.

Some 81% of farmers under 40 believe mental health is the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today. Furthermore, 92% believe that promoting good mental health is “crucial” if lives are to be saved and farmers kept safe.

To help the inquiry, please visit www.bit.ly/ruralMPs

We wish everyone a Happy Christmas & All the best for 2022 We look forward to working With you in the New Year

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News

Oxford Farming Conference bursary winners revealed

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hree Midland farmers have been awarded fully funded places to attend the next month’s Oxford Farming Conference which runs from 5-7 January 2022.

Sponsored by the Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH), the Inspire programme has been designed to support 30-45 year olds who would otherwise find it difficult to attend the conference.

The group selected for Inspire 2022 represent a wide range of sectors in agriculture, food and the environment. It includes Nottinghamshire farmer Joe Fisher, Warwickshire farmer Charles Goadby and Shropshire farm manager Gregg Tayler.

Other Inspire delegates from the region include Anglian Water catchment advisor Kelly Hewson Fisher and Grimme product specialist Ed Hodson, who is vice chairman of the Agricultural Engineers Association technical committee

dation at the Farmers Club in London.

Oxford Farming Conference director Emily Norton said it was a real challenge to select winners from a huge number of excellent applications. The selection panel was keen to support delegates who had not before attended the conference.

“As well as coming from a wide range of backgrounds, skills and experience, our 2022 cohort have all demonstrated a commitment to agriculture, to improving the diversity of our sector and to providing opportunities

Inspire delegates (lr): Joe Fisher, Charles Goadby and Gregg Tayler

to others.”

Ms Norton added: “We really look forward to bringing the group together in London to learn from each other and our great guests and experiences, and I am excited to start their journey towards OFC together” Oxford is the UK’s leading international conference for farming and agribusiness. Its charitable remit is to inform, challenge and inspire all those who attend, to resonate and be a force for positive change throughout the industry.

Exclusive visit In addition to the January conference, the group will attend a pre-conference away day including dinner, a guest speaker, exclusive visit, networking session and overnight accommo-

Prize-winning apprentices at machinery show

A

group of aspiring young agricultural engineers were recognised for their dedication and achievements at last month’s Midlands Machinery Show.

The annual Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society’s Engineering Apprenticeship award saw six students accept a cheque for £250 – the first in a two-year instalment totalling £500.

Oliver Coupland is in his second year at Ripon Farm Services, Retford, and loves visiting different farms with a variety of challenges. “I like the satisfaction of being able to get machines back to full working order,” he said.

A steam engine fanatic, Mr Coupland would like to be a master technician with responsibility for training up new apprentices. “One day I would like to be our depot’s gearbox specialist as I like the challenge of stripping and rebuilding them.”

Another Ripon Farm Services apprentice – based in Louth – is Isaac Kirk, who wants to specialise in harvesting support. “So far my apprenticeship has been an eye opener, the knowledge and skills I have gained are immense,” he said.

“Every day is different.”

Chandlers also boasted two apprentice win6 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

ners; Kieran Snowden at the Grantham depot and Zac Elsdon at Holbeach. Both have a passion for farming and are looking forward to developing their careers.

“It makes me very proud that the work I do helps farmers to carry on working and put food on our tables,” said Mr Snowden. “It is a great honour to have been selected for this award and will help me progress in my career.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by Luke Hatton, who works at Russells, Newark. “One of our customers snapped the front axle on his combine. It was estimated the job would take about 10 days but my mentor and I ended up doing it in under half that.

Carrying the flame for women in the industry was Stella Hubbard (left), who works at Farol as a John Deere apprentice. “I would like to inspire more women to take on this career. I would also love to own my own farm and develop a career in farming.”

John Edwards, technology consultant at Farol, started out as a John Deere apprentice at the age of 16. A decade later he was setting up the firm’s new technology department. “It’s a great career path,” he said.

Christmas can be a challenging time

RABI is always here for you At RABI, we understand that the festive season can present a complex mix of pressures. After all, farming life doesn’t stop for the holiday season. Any time of day or night, there’s someone you can talk to, every day of the year.

Call us 24/7 on: 0800 188 4444 rabi.org.uk/kooth

Registered Charity Number 208858

Focus on farmer wellbeing this Christmas Christmas and the New Year can be a magical and joyful time, but for many farming people the additional pressures and expectations can also make the festive season a challenging and stressful time.

The agricultural charity, RABI, is here to provide support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year via its confidential freephone helpline. The small team of agriculturally trained specialists provide a ‘round the clock’ service, meaning there is someone who understands your challenges, and ready to listen whenever you are ready to talk.

“The extension of our helpline to 24-hours is just one of the actions we’re taking to ensure flexible, accessible support is available across England and Wales,” says Alicia Chivers, RABI Chief Executive.

Over the coming months, RABI will be launching further new services in response to the Big Farming Survey, which evidenced that over a third of farming people are probably or possibly depressed. These services will supplement the support that the charity is already well known for including long-term financial support to non-working and working farming people, benefits advice and practical support.

“As the Big Farming Survey findings highlighted, levels of poor mental health and wellbeing across the farming community are extremely concerning. We all have a part to play to normalise conversations around our mental wellbeing to help create better futures for farming people,” Mrs Chivers concludes.

For anyone not feeling ready to speak in person, RABI’s online wellbeing platforms provide free, confidential access to advice and counselling support via rabi.org.uk/kooth.

RABI 24/7 helpline 0800 188 4444

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Arable Early bird survey suggests rise in winter cropping area •

•

•

Area higher than 10-year average Oilseed rape area increases by 12.9% Concern over higher input prices

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avourable drilling conditions and strong prices have supported an increase in winter cropping, suggests the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

The intended UK wheat area is forecast to be up 1.3% to 1.81m hectares for 2022, according to the AHDB Early Bird Survey. This is higher than the 10-year average and back in line with the 2019 area.

But high input costs may have limited further rises, says AHDB analyst Megan Hesketh. And while the winter rape area is set to increase for the first time since 2018 – by 12.9% – this may be lower than anticipated.

“With forward prices for rapeseed attractive and climbing all season, many might have been expecting a larger area rebound. But at the timing of cropping decisions, high input prices and the persistent issue of cabbage stem flea beetle may be capping gains in UK area grown.”

The winter barley area is estimated to be up 2.8% to 415,000ha – higher than the 395,000ha five-year average

and 398,000ha 10-year average. Looking ahead, spring barley planting is expected to be down 7.7% to 688,000ha, the lowest since 2016. But this could change if prices remain strong.

Oat cropping intentions are set to fall 5% to 189,000ha. This is just above the five-year average. But with oats holding a sizeable discount to other cereals this season, Ms Hesketh says any move towards other cropping would be unsurprising.

In terms of alternative break crops, other oilseeds are expected to decline 6.7%. Pulses are down 5.1% to 235,000ha, back to 2020 levels. Megan said: “This change is likely down to an extension of cereal rotations, with pulse yields still considered variable year-on-year. Seed availability will also be a factor.”

Forecast arable fallow area for 2022

Better prices have encouraged a return to oilseed rape

“

Pulse yields are still considered variable year-on-year

is up by 15%, to 306,000 hectares. This could be linked to the move away from direct payments, with less productive land potentially earmarked fxor environmental schemes. Again, rising input costs may also be a factor in decision-making.

Useful indicator The early bird survey is carried out each autumn to assess national cropping intentions. It is undertaken by the Aåndersons Centre, with the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) and other agronomists.

This year’s early bird survey covered 630,000ha, which represents some 13% of the UK crops surveyed.

The AHDB emphasises that the findings are provisional and represent a snapshot in time – although they are useful indicators.

Garibaldi confirms spot as late sown winter wheat

W

inter wheat variety Garibaldi has ended its successful first commercial season – with a survey suggesting growers achieved yields ranging from 10-14t/ha.

As this year’s wheat drilling season draws to a close, the variety’s strong tillering means Garibaldi is well-suited to sowing from mid-October to late-December, an attribute that will be welcomed in what has been a late season for many.

“In our 2019-21 trials, Garibaldi was com-

pared to varieties which are often selected for the later drilling slot,” said breeder Bill Angus.

“Results show it has a high degree of flexibility in its sowing date, and though a true winter wheat, its vernalisation requirement is not high – and, of course, this can be good in a late drilling strategy to control blackgrass.”

Garibaldi offers growers genetic diversity in the hard milling wheat sector and does not exploit the major genes used in many highrisk varieties. Its pedigree (Leeds x Evolu-

tion) is from parents chosen for their consistent yields and disease resistance.

“As new populations of Septoria and new races of yellow rust have evolved in the last two years, robust disease resistance is becoming increasingly important, particularly as traditional azole chemistry is removed from the market,” said Mr Angus.

“Garibaldi has been subject to high disease pressure during its selection, trial evaluation and on-farm situations and to date has shown good adult plant resistance.”

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 9

PROFILE | OVERBURY ENTERPRISES

How strategy to put soil health first has improved estate performance Farm manager Jake Freestone is reaping the rewards of a strategy to secure the long-term interests of his business.

G

loucestershire farmer Jake Freestone took over the management of Overbury Enterprises near Tewkesbury back in 2003.

But he soon realised that a highly intensive approach wasn’t going to maintain incomes and profitability.

With yields plateauing and costs rising, the realisation that subsidies would reduce and greater emphasis would fall on environment and biodiversity issues, encouraged him to look for a way to maintain farm performance with a softer environmental touch.

The approach was to breathe new life into soils, partly shaped by a Nuffield Scholarship including a study tour of US and New Zealand farms. He noticed how soils on non-tillage farms retained better structure and were more bioactive. It opened his eyes.

Improving soil health has paid dividends, says Jake Freestone

Soil structure With land resembling a building site with bricks and patio slabs interspersed with sand and gravel, the goal was to improve soil structure and resilience. What started as mintill trials has now turned into a notill cover crop strategy.

Mr Freestone now direct drills

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all cereal crops using a 6m cross slot drill, pulled by a John Deere 9370. He acknowledges that a no-till approach has its problems during wet autumns.

In such situations, he will revert to a spring crop.

“The margins might be lower but lower fixed costs means it evens out.”

Extended rotations include niche crops such as soya and linseed, encouraging beneficial pollinators, cover and companion crops, and livestock. And when you look at the figures, they are impressive.

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PROFILE | OVERBURY ENTERPRISES Continuedfrom previous page Total winter wheat establishment costs via a plough and press system were £169/ha, a sizeable chunk of that being fuel. Moves to min-till and then a one-pass system reduced costs further, but the no-till approach for the 2020/21 season was just £46/ha.

Other benefits There’s a host of ‘spin-off’ benefits too.

Time input has also reduced dramatically, from 56 minutes ha to just 14, freeing up staff for other farm and estate duties. Capital expenditure for machinery has reduced by over £250,000.

In some seasons cover crops have produced the equivalent of £273 kg/N/ Ha – similar savings have been made in P & K. “Our costs of establishing a cover crop are typically in the £76/ha mark. It’s nothing to what we are saving in reduced fertiliser use.”

Mr Freestone likes to get cover crops established quickly after harvest – with bare earth leaving ground exposed to the elements and temperature and day length giving crops a good start.

But perhaps the more important is-

sue is the cover crop mix itself. Again diverse, some mixes can have up to sixteen different crops including buckwheat – many with varying root characteristics.

“There’s considerable difference between a big tap rooting crop like fodder radish and fibrous-rooted vetch. That is important in improving structure in top soil and depth. Mixture diversity also benefits a wider number of species, many of which are beneficial.”

As a result, it has seen organic matter levels double, regardless of brick, patio or sand and gravel. Winter wheat averages have improved by up 0.5t/ha.

“These are small gains but when applied across the farm it is significant.”

Looking ahead Oilseed rape performance was also impressive in 2020/21. Even with the challenge of cabbage stem flea beetle, yields hit the five-year average of 3.6t/ ha. More so is that no pesticides have been needed to manage the pest.

Cover crop shading and companion crop competition tempt pests elsewhere and meaning autumn weed control was a single autumn application Continued on p14

Digital tools offer further refinement Jake Freestone is one of several farmers evaluating Bayer’s Climate FieldView, as well as other digital and diagnostic technology.

Like others, Jake is still to fully immerse himself fully with software package but recognises its potential.

“Hopefully, easy access to detailed field yield data will allow us to evaluate variable rate strategies in more detail and refine where necessary.”

Data is realtime. But most useful is the ability to select various field areas for comparison via various tools within the programme. The ability to select any field area regardless of shape or complexity is seen as a standout feature.

Biomass maps Colour coded micro field data over different seasons clearly highlights problem areas, which can be further analysed by biomass maps in the Field Health Imagery suite. The level of insight is remarkable.”

FieldView isn’t an alternative to existing precision farming platforms, but something to supplement them.

With FieldView, all data is in one place, and can be accessed at any time whether at the farm or off it,” says Bayer’s Mr Dafforn.

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PROFILE | OVERBURY ENTERPRISES Continued from p12 of AstroKerb (propyzamide + aminopyralid) for blackgrass and broadleaved weeds.

Despite hilly terrain over much of the farm soil erosion is practically nil, the reduced fuel from direct drilling equivalent to 60 tonnes of CO2, reduced farm inputs protecting water courses and now an of abundance wildlife.

The estate has been in the hands of the Martin family since 1723. They place great emphasis on the estate’s relationship with customers, staff and community. Mr Freestone and his team have taken this to great levels.

With local interest groups, they have set about creating habitat and nesting sites for Barn Owls and a British Trust For Ornithology bird ringing initiative. The West Midlands Ring Group had the delight of finding two rare and elusive Dotterel in early October.

“What we’ve set out to achieve is a strategy that goes beyond ‘public good’ but something for the true long-term.

It will be good to believe farming will still be part of the Overbury life 300 years from now,” he concludes.

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Plan nitrogen applications to get best valuer from fertiliser

High prices mean nitrogen applications must be carefully planned. Natalie Wood explains how.

T

he European gas market has been extremely volatile in recent months. Prices have soared with a knock-on effect on fertiliser production costs.

Why? Because natural gas is part of the manufacturing process. In one week alone, production costs rose by almost £200/t. It’s a staggering amount.

What does this mean for growers? Well, the price you bought at will impact upon the optimum nitrogen (N) rate you should apply in terms of economics.

If you bought nitrogen earlier on in the year – at £280 for example – your economic optimum won’t have changed.

You will still be ok to stick with, say, 220kg of N on winter wheat. But if you paid £700/t in recent weeks, you may find you need to adjust your rate.

When we get to the final 50-60kgN/ha we must be more careful. ROI can vary depending on pricing, crop potential, weather conditions and more. All of this needs to be considered to make an application economically viable.

In essence, this means growers who have had to buy at a high price may then need to reduce their fertiliser rates to establish a good ROI. For example, a rate of 160kgN/ha for wheat will deliver just that.

We can re-evaluate whether the last 5060kg of nitrogen is required when spring arrives. Pricing, crop potential, mineralisation and our use of effective tools will all help us make the call whether that’s the right thing to do for our farm in economic terms.

In a season where financial circumstances will play an even heavier role in farmer decisions, it is more important to ensure all aspects of crop nutrition – not just nitrogen – are robust and conducive to a good yield potential.

We often talk about Nitrogen Use Efficiency, but Nutrient Use Efficiency should be the focus. All nutrients work together within a plant for optimum growth.

Sulphur, for example, increases the uptake efficiency of nitrogen – meaning you will not only benefit from the sulphur, but through the resulting utilisation of available nitrogen in the soil as well.

We see it in Yara products and trials. Independent trial work over the years has shown an average yield increase of 0.85t/ha in wheat and 0.5t/ha in oilseed from sulphur.

If you are going at the 160kgN/ha rate for winter wheat, using an NS product to provide all the nitrogen is perfect for ensuring that sulphur is applied little and often too, thereby increasing the uptake efficiency.

Independent work Applying sulphur little and often benefits yield due to reducing losses through potential leaching – so an NS product is certainly the better choice this season over straight nitrogen.

In a normal year, only 25% of nitrogen actually needs to be applied as straight for that final application.

If that’s not economically viable this year, you might be wasting money that you won’t see a return on. As always, we need to look at the whole picture.

Work out what’s best for your farm. Remove inputs that ultimately cost more than they’ll deliver in value. Put an effective nutrient management plan in place now and consider your position when next season arrives.

Natalie Wood is agronomy operations manager for fertiliser manufacturer Yara

Fertiliser prices have rocketed – and could go higher before easing

Nitrogen response Our own trial data illustrates this point. A response curve occurs as the rate of nitrogen increases and the yield follows accordingly. But at a certain point, the curve plateaus. At particularly high rates, the curve begins to decrease.

This perfectly demonstrates that there is a biologically optimum nitrogen rate. From there, we can calculate the optimum nitrogen rate in terms of cost, taking both crop and fertiliser prices into account.

Trials show that the first 100kg of nitrogen gives us the best response. This is therefore an excellent return on investment (ROI) – no matter how much the fertiliser costs. The next 60kg of nitrogen also gives us a good response and meets ROI. DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 17

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18 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

PROFILE | MARTIN WILLIAMS

Farmer tackles phosphate levels in river Wye Meeting his environmental responsibilities is a key goal for Herefordshire farmer Martin Williams.

A

Herefordshire grower and contractor is tackling phosphate levels in the river Wye – improving water quality and benefiting his farm business too At a time of unprecedented change for the farming industry, Martin Williams is busy preparing his business for a future without the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and looking at how he will combine food production with the provision of public goods.

To do that, he is using naturebased solutions to develop a sustainable farming system which enhances the key component of natural capital – soil, air and water – while also using variable rate technology to increase the accuracy of applications and target the more productive land.

“

Luckily, almost everyone is willing to adapt

As a result, he is making good use of agri-environment schemes to introduce strategic buffer strips and 6m margins, as well as looking at cropping rotation on river meadows, so that watercourses have protection.

An AHDB Monitor Farmer, Mr Williams has stopped applying sewage cake and reduced his use of chicken litter, in efforts to prevent soil and phosphate losses to water – a problem that has been highlighted in Herefordshire.

In addition, his rotation remains flexible, so that bare soil and any erosion is minimised, with cover crops being grown to improve soil function and contribute to nutrient cycling.

Catchment action With 800ha of arable and grassland, some of which borders the river Wye at Fownhope, Mr Williams is at the forefront of a recent move to reduce phosphate levels in the river and bring the catchment back into balance.

Having been aware of the scale of the problem and the considerable change required for some time, he took the initiative and set up a meeting last summer, with the aim of persuading all the stakeholders to work together to tackle the issue.

“There are a number of reasons why we have a water quality problem in Continued on p21 DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 19

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PROFILE | MARTIN WILLIAMS Avara Foods, has committed to removing the phosphate from the poultry manure before it is spread on local farmland – a move Mr Williams applauds.

“It means that some 150,000 tonnes of chicken litter will have its phosphate content removed before it hits the soil.

That immediately helps to address the 2000t phosphate excess.”

For this to happen, Avara Foods will be investing in interventions such as phosphate stripping technology and pyrolysis plants, which should be completed in 2-3 years as part of its wider environmental responsibilities.

As an arable farmer, he is keen for Avara’s nutrient stripped product to remain available in the catchment for its supply of nitrogen and potash – both of which are required by the crops being grown.

“We can then use it in the spring when we can travel, in line with guidance set out by the Farming Rules for Water.”

Continued from p19 the Wye,” he says. “Without wishing to point the finger at any one sector, we all need to change what we do if we’re going to see any improvement.”

Farming must do its bit because the industry is contributing as much as two thirds of the phosphate found in the rive Wye, mainly from inappropriate manure use, he reveals.

“The catchment is running at a surplus of 2000t of phosphate each year,” he adds. “Livestock manures, sewage cake and digestate used have been identified as the main sources of this excess phosphate, although we also have a problem with ‘leaky’ soils.”

Phosphate flow To emphasise the issue, Mr Williams highlights work by Lancaster University which shows that soil phospate input exceeds crop demand by 30% in the Wye catchment.

“That means phosphate is accumulating every year,” he stresses. “The main movement of phosphate is in manures, especially the chicken litter that is available in this area, so changing how and when they are used will help.”

The huge reserve of phosphate in Herefordshire soils, known as legacy P, also contributes to the problem because it is mobile and can, in some circumstances, end up in the river.

“The experts have told us that it will take between 5 and 15 years to draw down this excess phosphate through cropping. The first step is to stop applying manures to soils with a P index of 2+ - they don’t need it and can’t hold it.”

Workable Solutions Since that initial meeting, there has been considerable progress. Kate Speke-Adams, head of land use at the Wye and Usk Foundation has progressed the priority actions identified and liaised with the farming community to come up with workable solutions.

One notable success is that the major broiler production company in the area,

Phosphate is accumulating every year, says Martin Williams Below: The river Wye snakes through the Herefordshire countryside

Collaboration However, it’s not just the poultry sector that has to step up and make changes, he stresses. Collaborative measures are the way forward – anaerobic digestion plants, water companies, large dairy operations and other businesses will also need to play their part.

“There’s more than the over application of livestock manures and the suitability of the land it is being applied to address. Luckily almost everyone seems to be willing to adapt.”

A raft of measures has been developed for use at the farm level, including a poultry litter compliance scheme and crop monitoring trials.

“The compliance scheme means that farmers will have to test their land before they apply chicken litter, so that land with high P indices is identified and classed as unsuitable for spreading.”

The Environment Agency is working on spreading protocols, he continues, so that there is greater accountability with muck use and poor nutrient planning decisions are reduced.

“The monitoring work will look at whether crops are able to access and use the legacy P that is in the soil.”

Mr Williams highlights previous work on the river Lugg, a tributary of the Wye, which saw wetlands and margins introduced across 2700ha of farmland adjoining the river.

“That project showed that these measures reduced river phosphate levels by one third. So we know we can make a difference and prevent nutrient losses from farmland. Farmers are doing a lot but we can definitely improve – it’s a joint learning curve.”

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 21

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22 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

Livestock Urgent action needed to stem calls for livestock reduction • Government pledges lower methane • Farmers urged to reduce emissions • Action now will secure sector’s future

L

ivestock leaders are being urged to take urgent action to reduce methane emissions – or face repeated calls for a reduction in dairy, beef and sheep numbers.

Nigel Miller, who chairs the industry’s Ruminant Health & Welfare group, said the government’s commitment for a 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030 was a “tough step” – but also a feasible goal provided the industry moved quickly.

“Dairy, beef and sheep production across our four nations are already firmly in the crosshairs over methane.

The climate change committee is clear that a reduction in red meat and dairy consumption of 20% is integral to the UK’s plan to reach net zero.”

To avoid the “soundbite solution” of reducing livestock numbers, Mr Miller said the industry must reduce methane emissions over the coming decade if dairy, beef and sheep producers were to protect their future livelihoods.

He added: “The truth is ruminant sectors can no longer shelter behind carbon efficiency alone. We must use this pledge to trigger a change in mindset and take control of our share of the problem.”

Mr Miller said it looks entirely possible to achieve a 30% methane reduction across UK livestock farming this dec-

ade by blending new science with high levels of care – and to even go beyond this reduction target in the long term.

But a key challenge will be for each producer to be aware of their own farm’s emissions profile – including the amount emitted of CO2, methane and nitrous oxide. For livestock producers, methane reduction must be an immediate focus of effort.

“Measuring these gases is a challenge in itself,” said Mr Miller. “The Scottish Government has just announced a £50m package to support farm carbon audits and planning. We need this type of support across the four nations.”

Increasing longevity Immediate opportunities open to cattle and sheep producers to reduce methane included improving herd and flock health to reduce involuntary culling – and increasing the longevity of dairy and breeding stock.

Developing a high national health status for cattle and sheep would provide a platform for other interventions, said Mr Miller. This included commercially available feed additives which could reduce enteric methane emissions by over 30%.

“In the medium-term, new genetics offer a range of solutions, the most di-

The beef sector is under pressure to reduce methane emissions

rect being heritable reductions of enteric emissions in cattle and sheep, supported by other traits such as mature weight and robustness which might combine into a climate change index.”

Methane is a key focus in the climate change debate because it is 28 times more warming that CO2 over the standard 100-year accounting period for greenhouse gases. That said, methane also degrades faster.

“This is why rapid reductions of methane now are seen as the best chance of keeping increases in global temperatures below a 2°C tipping point at the end of the century – above which the effects of warming are likely to become irreversible. However, reductions in CO2 and nitrous oxide emissions also need to continue.”

Groups join forces on grazing strategies

O

ne-to-one guidance for farmers to improve their grazing strategy is being offered by the British Grassland Society and Agriculture and Horticultree Development Board.

Farmers will receive impartial guidance and ongoing support about their grassland management from an experienced grazing mentor. They will help producers set goals, plan and overcome any weaknesses to im-

prove grassland efficiency.

AHDB animal health and welfare scientist Siwan Howatson said: “The BGS Grazing Mentors can help farmers unlock the potential of their pasture. The one-to-one guidance on their grazing strategy is specifically tailored to each farm.

“Better production and utilisation of grass and forage provides an opportunity to reduce costs and optimise profits on any livestock

farm, and the key to success is to learn from other farmers’ experiences and expertise.”

Eight new mentors joined the project this year, with a mixture of dairy, beef and sheep farmers. Farmers will receive two visits from their mentor, alongside conversations to help with problems and update on progress.

For more details and information, visit britishgrassland.com/grazing-mentors.

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 23

LAMMA SHOW RETURNS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS 11-12 January 2022 at the NEC, Birmingham

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LAMMA 2022 LAMMA tickets available as show celebrates 40th year • Event makes return after pandemic • More than 700 exhibitors on show • Latest products and farm services

T

he LAMMA Show will celebrate its 40th year as the UK’s leading agricultural machinery event when it returns to the Birmingham NEC next month.

Due to take place at 11-12 January, the two-day showcase will see 700 manufacturers, dealers and distributors fill ing 11 exhibition halls. As well as the latest machinery, visitors will be able to see the latest products and services available to the industry.

“To celebrate this important milestone in LAMMA’s history, we are not only looking at our past, but focusing on the future of our event and the UK farming industry,” says LAMMA event manager Kate Walsh.

“We are planning some exciting new features at the show and re-inventing others. LAMMA’s beginnings are deeply rooted in bringing the best of farm machinery innovation under one roof and looking to the future; something we aim to continue for the next 40 years and beyond.”

The Farm Safety Zone, sponsored

by Safety Revolution, returns to the show for the fourth year. Key organisations, charities and industry figures will raise awareness on vital aspects of farm safety and how to minimise risk and accidents on farm.

The Farming 4.0 Trail is centralised around the theme of The Future of Agriculture, highlighting the role data, robotics and other devices will play in achieving Net Zero. Exhibitors already on the trail include Airial Robotics, Crop4Sight, Agrifac, Bayer, and more.

Look to future With an eye on the future, LAMMA has partnered with the Institution of Agricultural Engineers to offer the 2021 Young Engineer Award, celebrating upcoming agricultural engineers. The award winner will be an-

nounced at the show.

“We are delighted to be part of LAMMA’s celebration of this historic moment,” says Sanjeev Khaira, director of Arc Media, which recently acquired the LAMMA event from previous owners AgriBriefing.

The 2022 event will be the first for two years after the show fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic. Instead of holding an in-person event, organisers focused on their digital farm machinery platform LAMMA365.

The platform brings all facets of farm machinery together in one place.

It contains the latest news and industry trends, review comparison tool, independent product reviews, videos, podcasts, webinars and a directory of leading manufacturers and their dealers.

Sponsored by Kramp, entry for LAMMA 2022 is free of charge. For faster entry on arrival, visitors are strongly encouraged to pre-register. For full details, visit www.lammashow.com.

All about LAMMA Getting there Parking is free for the event and the NEC is clearly signposted from all motorways and major routes – just put B40 1NT in your sat nav. Once you arrive, don’t follow your satnav, look out for LAMMA on the signs. Once parked up, a free shuttle bus will be waiting for you to take you to the show entrance, or you can walk along the signposted footpaths.

Covid measures The LAMMA event will be held in accordance with the latest UK government and Public Health England recommendations for COVID-secure business-to-business trade exhibitions. Organisers say they are working closely with the NEC and the exhibitions industry to ensure the latest advice and best practice is being followed.

Early Bird Breakfast The early bird breakfast will be available to visitors again for 2022 - more details will be released closer to the event Disabled access LAMMA Show and the NEC aims to be fully accessible and user-friendly for disabled visitors. Contact show organisers to hire disability scooters.

CPD Points The event is an opportunity to get up to date with all the latest legislation. Organisers encourage knowledge exchange through professional development. Visitors to LAMMA will be able to collect DairyPro, BASIS, and NRoSO points on both days of the event.

Thousands of visitors will attend the 40th LAMMA show DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 25

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LAMMA 2022

All-electric tractor back at LAMMA

F Bobcat says it aims to double telehandler production by 2025

New telehandler range makes its UK debut • Performance and comfort • Three-year warranty • Intelligent technology

T

he new generation farm telehandler range from Bobcat will have its UK show debut at next month’s LAMMA event.

Two R-Series models will be displayed on the company’s stand at the Birmingham NEC – the top-of-the-range TL43.80HF Agri 4 Star model and the compact TL30.60 telehandler. Other Bobcat loaders and mini-excavators will also be exhibited.

Bobcat regional sales director John Christofides said: “As the UK’s leading farm machinery show, LAMMA is the perfect platform to give farmers their first close look at our ground-breaking R-Series agricultural telehandlers.

“The new R-Series range offers superior machines that combine all-day comfort, maximum productivity and reliability, intelligent features, a robust build with intuitive operation and excellent 360º ergonomics.”

On standard 24 inch tyres, the TL43.80HF offers a maximum lift capacity of 4.3 tonnes, maximum lift height of 7.5m and maximum forward reach of 4m. The TL30.60 has a maximum 3t lift capacity, maximum lift height of 5.9m and maximum forward reach of 3m.

Including these models, Bobcat’s R-Series agricultural telehandler range provides a choice of seven models with Stage V engines. They cover maximum lifting capacities between 2.6 and 4.3 tonnes with lifting heights from 6-8 m.

‘Next is now’ The R-Series telehandlers are part of Bobcat’s ‘Next is Now’ programme. The manufacturer says this combines innovative product development and diversification with more intelligent

and better connected technology that reshapes how work is done on the farm.

The Bobcat R-Series offers a premium workspace and new cab design.A contemporary cab interior features special branding, colours and textures.

In the ergonomic design, all surfaces have been optimised to offer increased space and visibility.

The cab includes dynamic air suspension seat with heating and a suspended armrest with joystick for improved operating comfort. The new LCD colour display is available with a larger 7 inch Touch screen with built-in radio and touchto-dial mobile phone contacts.

A control button at the back of the multifunctional joystick is easily used with the index finger, allowing the operator to use their thumb to actuate the usual boom and auxiliary functions – as well as auto grab, bucket shaking, boom float and speed shifting features.

Cab visibility is optimised with 360° LED work lights, best-in-class boom speeds, the powerful transmission and automated boom movements – allowing farmers to complete their work more efficiently and in less time.

Customer expectations A choice of four different finishing levels is available. The equipment in each pack is clearly defined and is intended to meet different levels of customer expectations in terms of ease of use and level of comfort.

The new AGRI 4 Star pack on the TL43.80HF at LAMMA will equipped with all the new comfort and productivity equipment for this new generation of machines. It targets the most demanding farmers and aspires to build a brand image of ‘excellence in farming machinery’.

As with all new Bobcat telehandlers, the RSeries offers customers a three-year warranty (or 3000 hours) as standard on the entire machine from the factory. This is extendable to five years and 5000 hours.

armtrac’s flagship all-electric compact tractor returns to LAMMA – alongside with the brand’s higher power FT6075E tractor.

The FT25G has generated much interest from those wanting a clean energy alternative for smaller tractors since it launched two years ago – and recently won the Sustainability and Environmental SALTEX Innovation Award, The only compact tractor on the market to feature a lithium-ion battery, it has an onboard charger and can be charged from any domestic socket to 100% in eight hours., says Steven Haynes, tractor sales manager at Farmtrac distributor Reesink Agriculture.

“As the first company to enter the market with an all-electric compact tractor, Farmtrac wanted to ensure that this tractor could perform as well as any diesel compact without any major drawbacks for those choosing to go electric.

A lot of time was spent on the design and test phase to ensure it could meet or exceed the performance levels of the diesel machines with the added benefits that come from being battery-powered, says Mr Haynes.

The FT25G will be joined at the show by the 75hp diesel-powered FT6075 model. It boasts more torque, better fuel economy, selectable 4WD, independent dual-speed rear PTO, position and draft control, rear hydraulic spool valves and trailer brakes.

Both models incorporate worldclass components from Carraro, hydraulic systems from MITA and its smart appearance is attributed to styling by the Porsche design studio.

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 27

LAMMA 2022

Tramspread to distribute Roelama in UK

The Roelama Sleepflex and Sleepflex Farmer are now available from Tramspread.

T

ramspread has become the sole UK distributor of Roelama slurry applicators – which include trailing shoe machines with working widths up to 12 metres.

The Dutch-made Sleepflex Farmer is available in working widths of 6.4m, 7.2m, 8m and 8.8m. The larger 12m-wide Sleepflex will be exhibited on the Tramspread stand at the LAMMA event in January.

“Roelama manufactures high quality, easy to maintain trailing shoe applicators that can be used with an umbilical system or mounted to a tanker,” says Tramspread managing director Terry Baker.

The Sleepflex and Sleepflex Farmer models can be specified with trailing shoes or cutting disks and have a vertical, three or five-part, hydraulic folding mechanism. The swinging arm for the drag hose has been neatly designed to prevent the hose from run-

28 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

ning underneath by angling it away from the machine at all times.

“The Sleepflex Farmer is a professional machine,” says Mr Baker. “It has adjustable wheels and 20-centimetre row distance spacing to maximise precision nutrient application.”

Roelama applicators have a vertical, three or fivepart, hydraulic folding mechanism.

The 12m Sleepflex is suitable for larger farms and contractors. It features an integrated lift, and fully electrical hydraulic steering. Two turning points on the swinging arm enable the operator to reverse without crossing the drag hose.

“This helps to manoeuvre the wider width machine in tight spaces,” says Mr Baker. Both machines require less maintenance than some competitors due to the design needing fewer turning points which reduces greasing, he adds. ““There are also some optional extras such as section control and flow meters that will appeal to those looking for a precision led approach to nutrient application.”

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DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 29

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17/11/2021 08:50:03

LAMMA 2022

Round bale chaser set to make UK debut at LAMMA

A

round bale chaser which can pick up 16 round bales in as little as eight minutes will be launched at LAMMA 2022.

The new CTS 1600 from Samco allows a operator to collect and load 16 round bales with one joystick click.

This reduces the labour and extra machinery traditionally needed to gather round bales, as well as lowering soil compaction.

The CTS 1600 is built at Samco’s manufacturing facility in Ireland. It features a hydraulically operated soft hand bale squeeze, that lifts and rotates the bales onto the chaser, says Samco director Matthew Shine.

“This handling method allows both netted and wrapped bales to be gathered without damaging them. The new chaser will load itself automatically, by stacking two bales side by side at double height, before moving the stack down its length on floor rollers.”

Once full, the 16 bales are secured by the chaser’s caged sides, which move inwards to hold the bales in place.

Quick operation Built-in sensors fine-tune the position of the sides to the size of bales, while gripping bars along the top and rear of the chaser prevent any movement during transport. A Danfoss load sensing hydraulic system controls the main functions of the machine.

Unloading times are kept to a minimum too. The CTS 1600 can simultaneously offload eight bales (in four stacks of two on their ends). The operator then moves the trailer forward to unload the remaining eight bales.

This quick turnaround time allows for a speedier return to the field to continue loading. Its 7.3m length helps the CTS 1600 unload in tighter areas, allowing more bales to be stacked on a smaller footprint.

“During demonstrations last summer, we were surprised at just how manoeuvrable the chaser was,” says Mr Shine. “The operator was able to travel down narrow lanes and negotiate small yards previously only accessible with a loader.

Bales are secured by the chaser’s caged sides.

Inset: The chaser gathers wrapped bales without damaging them.

Easy to manoeuvre “The chaser’s manoeuvrability is further enhanced as only the rear half of the chaser tips, enabling bales to be unloaded where height restrictions

are an issue.”

The CTS 1600 runs on a brace of air-brake equipped ADR axles and features a choice of three 710/40 R22.5 tyres and a steering axle, if required.

An in-cab colour screen enables fine-tuning settings and monitoring bale numbers along with a manual mode, which lets the operator stack the chaser with odd-sized loads. A rearfacing camera gives excellent vision and helps keep bale stacks tight when unloading.

The chaser has been entered into the Young Engineers Award at the LAMMA event. Final pre-production and design was by 27-year-old Paddy Lane who has worked for the company for more than three years.

Award recognises young engineers

A

new award at LAMMA will recognise the next generation of agricultural engineers working to make farming more efficient, profitable or sustainable.

Awarded in association with the Institution of Agricultural Engineers, the accolade will go to an individual or group of young engineers who have created or otherwise worked on a piece of agricultural machinery.

“From the very beginning, the LAMMA show was dedicated to promoting and educating young agricultural engineers,” explains event manager Kate Walsh. “LAMMA celebrates its 40th year in 2022, and as we reflect on our past, we also look to the future.

“The opportunity to champion the best and brightest agricultural engineers is the perfect

way to celebrate that legacy while also supporting the future of British farming.”

The award showcases engineers who have created or made changes to a piece of agricultural machinery, equipment or technology – helping to improve efficiency, profitability or sustainability on-farm.

“We recognise agricultural engineering can reduce the environmental footprint of farming through reducing carbon emissions and better fuel efficiency,” says IAgrE chief executive and judge Charlie Nicklin.

The winner will be determined by a combination of judges’ scores and a public vote. Mr Nicklin said it would be a finished product, prototype or concept that would increase profitability and on-farm sustainability.

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 31

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LAMMA 2022

Can-Am drives off-road revolution at LAMMA

T

wo new off-road Can-Am machines will be showcased at LAMMA – the Traxter HD7 and Traxter HD9.

Can-Am says its off-road line-up continues to prioritise the user, as they have been designed to handle the job demands of utility riders as well as the challenging conditions they face on a daily basis.

The HD7 is a work-ready vehicle that provides the user with consistent performance. With the help of the new HD7 Rotax engine, the vehicle has been optimised for off-road use and produces 37% more power than the HD5 engine it has replaced.

The Can-Am Traxter HD9 offers class-leading power and lowend torque through the new Rotax HD9 engine – so travelling up hills or towing and carrying cargo on the flat is easier and more efficient.

Other vehicles on show are made up of Can-Am’s most popular models.

The price competitive CanAm Outlander 450 is built with class-leading performance, no matter the rigours of any situation put in front of it.

The Can-Am Outlander 570 XU combines controlled handling, power and performance, enabling the user to travel across multiple terrains with ease and efficiently. A selection of Can-Am Traxter SSVs will also be on the stand.

To support the vehicles, the CanAm off-road team will be on hand to highlight Digitally Encoded Security System key, which restricts access to the bike’s electronic ignition system BRP commercial manager James Dalke said: “We are excited to physically be back at LAMMA to showcase the

latest additions to our growing off-road line-up to an engaged and interested audience who use ATVs and SSVs on a daily basis.”

Mr Dalke added: “We also see this show as a great platform from which to promote and highlight the importance of rider safety to visitors and as part of this we will be hosting the Farm Safety Foundation on our stand.”

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Join us at LAMMA - Hall 6 Stand 6.720 visit our website: briggsirrigation.co.uk call us on 01536 260338 or email: enquiries@briggsirrigation.co.uk

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 33

LAMMA 2022

Focus on better in-built crop traits

N

ovel and improved crop traits will be the core focus on the RAGT Seeds stand at LAMMA 2022.

Visitors will be able to talk to RAGT plant breeders about the latest combinable and forage crop developments as well as soil health plants. The stand will include a range of indoor crop plots featuring varieties designed to meet the needs of today’s farmers.

RAGT Seeds remains at the forefront of DNA technology, adopting new techniques and developing them to optimise trait selection across its breeding programmes, says managing director Lee Bennett.

“Our experience in this area brings many advantages in developing and breeding the varieties we sell and the advice we provide.

This is invaluable in helping breeders tackle the many challenges that crop production faces.”

The development of genetic markers and advances in technology have greatly increased the accuracy and speed at which the presence or absence of desired characteristics can be detected, says Mr Bennett.

This includes helping to improve pest and disease resistance as the chemical armoury dwindles, boosting crop resilience in the face

end user specifications and changing consumer habits are met to help growers make the most of an increasingly volatile market.”

Better breeding helps growers make the most of volatile markets, says Lee Bennett

of climate change and improving nitrogen use efficiency to help growers drive down input costs and carbon footprints.

“All this must be combined with improved yields and quality, while ensuring rigorous

Breeding pipeline A raft of new material is coming along RAGT’s breeding pipeline, including several high yielding wheats with disease resistance, some promising spring barleys and oats with improved yields of top quality grain and new hybrid oilseed rapes.

One of the most exciting developments is BYDV resistance in wheat, says Mr Bennett.

Using the Bdv2 gene that originates from a wild goat grass, this protects the wheat from the day it planted for less than the cost of a single pyrethroid spray.

“Plant resistance greatly simplifies crop management, removing the need to monitor and control aphid populations with foliar-applied insecticide sprays while benefiting the environment.”

Commercially introduced in 2019, BYDV resistance is included in a range of milling and feed wheat varieties nearing the market.

Some of these also feature orange wheat blossom midge resistance, raising the prospect of insecticide-free wheat for growers.

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Rileys have the answer for ALL harvesting conditions J Riley 2022 demonstration

The latest Vervaet range:

The return of Rileys’ popular biennial working demonstration. See the latest Vervaet harvester range at work, including well-proven turbine models and the new rollerbed machine. Refreshments to include our famous hog roast. Thursday 27 January 2022, Little Witchingham, Norfolk, NR9 5NY.

Beet Eater 925 Evo 9-row Beet Eater 625 Evo 6-row (with turbines or rollerbed) Q-616 6-row

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DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 35

£27 MILLION NEW DEFRA GRANT FUNDING RELEASED On Tuesday 16th November 2021, Defra announced the Farming Investment Fund (FIF) is open for grant applications, this will be the start of several new schemes brought forward as BPS reduces and is rolled into other support measures. The total £27M Farming Investment Fund (FIF) is split over two strands, named the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) and the Farming Transformation Fund (FTF).

THE FARMING EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY FUND (FETF)

This follows its predecessor scheme, The Countryside Productivity Small Grants Scheme, and will pay a fixed grant rate per eligible item. FETF is targeted towards smaller grants with a minimum grant rate of £2,000 and maximum rate of £25,000. The deadline for applications under this first round of funding is the 7th of January 2022. It is advised that prospective applicants act quickly as demand for funding and items is anticipated to be very strong, which could lead to supply chain pressures. Eligible items include direct drills, livestock handling systems, grain stirrers, cattle crushes plus many more.

FARMING TRANSFORMATION FUND (FTF)

FTF is focused on larger capital expenditure items and will fund projects under three themes: • Water Management • Improving Farm Productivity • Adding Value The fund for water resource management will close for initial applications on the 12th January 2022.

Funding for the wider themes of improving farming productivity and adding value are anticipated to open at the end of 2021/early 2022.

FTF applications are a two-stage process with an initial eligibility check followed by a more detailed full application. Whilst the final detail of the improving farm productivity and adding value grants are yet to be published, based on previous funding under these themes, we anticipate this will support projects such as optical and split graders for potatoes, vegetable processing and wrapping equipment, meat, and milk processing, on farm robotics and energy efficiency to name a few.

Water Management Grants – Will cover 40% of total eligible project costs, with a minimum grant rate set at £35,000 and maximum of £500,000. Therefore, the total minimum capital expenditure is set at £87,500. Eligible items under this theme include, reservoirs, associated pump and pipework, underground irrigation mains and hydrants, boom and trickle irrigation equipment. For large scale water resource management projects such as reservoir construction, key supporting evidence such as planning permission and abstraction licenses must be obtained to receive the grant. This can be a lengthy process, so in cases where this is not already underway it is important to act very quickly to be able to benefit from this grant opportunity.

Throughout previous grant schemes Brown&Co secured over £30M for 338 projects for clients, therefore stand well placed to assist you in your bid for grant funding. Please contact your local Brown&Co office to discuss your project and understand its eligibility.

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Professional services Farm investment fund now open for applications • £27m available for new equipment • Aim is to improve farm productivity • Act now: tight application timetable

F

armers have until next month to apply for grants from a £27m fund to invest in productivityboosting equipment.

The Farming Investment Fund enables farmers to apply for grants to buy new equipment and infrastructure to help to improve efficiency. This could include solar powered electric fences, water treatment systems and cameras for monitoring livestock.

The Defra fund will be split across two strands. First, the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund will focus on smaller grants for equipment from a set list, including electronic seeders and chemical-free disinfection systems.

Secondly, the Farming Transformation Fund will cover more substantial technology, with the potential to transform business performance. This will

focus initially on water management with grants available to improve water use on farms.

Defra farm minister Victoria Prentis said: “I’m pleased to offer support to eligible farmers through the new Farming Investment Fund to invest in technology and infrastructure to boost productivity and deliver environmental benefits.”

Agricultural transition The fund is part of the government’s agricultural transition plan. It will see direct payments phased out over the next seven years. Instead, farmers will be offered financial help to improve productivity, manage the environment and deliver other public goods.

Eligible applicants involved in the production or processing of agricultural, horticultural or forestry products

The grants aim to make farming more productive

“

Farmers must decide if the grants stack up

can apply to the Farming Investment Fund. Applicants are urged to make note of the differing deadlines for both strands of the fund.

The deadline for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund is the 7 January 2022 at midday. Applications for the Farming Transformation Fund can be made online.

Projects that score highly enough against the scheme objectives will be invited to make a full application. This is open until the 12 January 2022, with full applications by 30 June 2022.

For details, visit www.defra.gov.uk

Is it worth applying for a FIF grant?

D

efra is heralding the Farming Investment Fund as a new scheme, says Katie Hilton (right), director with farm business advisers Cheffins. But farmers are unlikely to see this as new funding, given that similar grants have been available before, she adds.

“That said, it will be welcome at a time when farmers are repeatedly hearing the mantra that they should become stronger and more resilient. This funding will be of benefit to those who are poised to do just that, with plans to invest in their futures.”

The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund, for example, offers £12,054 of grant funding towards the cost of a new 3m direct drill which is a significant increase from the previous offer of £9,600.

Additionally, there is a now a 6m direct drill on the list, grant funded at £25,000.

More items have become available for resource management, notably for the application of slurry and digestate, which may appeal to contractors.

Sheep farmers may be disappointed that more new items of equipment haven’t made it on to the list for them. But an electric fencing package to facilitate mobile or rotational grazing could be of significant interest, as will a mobile sheep dip package.

There is disappointment that the Farming Transformation Fund, designed to provide grants for large capital

items, will undergo a gradual launch. Only the Water Management Grant is now open.

Farm Productivity and Adding Value grants will come later.

“This new package of funding from Defra comes at a pivotal time for the industry when farmers are faced with reductions to direct support while simultaneously needing to invest for their futures, with neither coming easily,” says Ms Hilton.

“The scheme certainly makes investment in equipment a more attainable prospective. But applicants will need to carefully weigh up how each item will help their business and whether the grants stack up financially.”

DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 37

Professional services

Budget gives boost to farm diversification • 50% rate discount for hospitality • Benefits for farm diversifications • Sigh of relief for capital gains tax

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arms with diversified enterprises are set to benefit from changes to business rates announced in the autumn Budget.

In a Budget designed to kick-start a post-Covid recovery, Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed a 50% business rates discount for the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors in England in 2022-23 – up to a maximum of £110,000 Jonathan Armitage, head of farming at business consultants Strutt & Parker, said: “Changes to business rates in the leisure and hospitality sector may also be helpful to rural businesses with diversified enterprises.”

A £1m extension of the Annual Investment Allowance extension (AIA) until 31 March 2023 would also benefit farmers, said Mr Armitage. It would encourage investment which would help put farms on a stable footing, he said.

“This is good news for farming businesses given they are currently facing a number of difficult challenges – including rising input costs, labour shortages and significant changes in agricultural and environmental policy.

“The ability to claim 100% tax relief on qualifying plant and machinery

“

This is good news for farming businesses

does at least help to support investment, which is likely to be required as part of a strategy to develop robust, sustainable businesses for the future.

Saving tax should not be the driving factor in making investment decisions within a farming business, said Mr Armitage. But he added: “It is a very useful tool where capital expenditure is being planned.”

NFU farm specialist Chris Walsh said farmers planning to diversify could be encouraged to take the plunge by the one-year 50% business rates discount for retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

But smaller farms may find themselves better off using the alreadyavailable Small Business Rates Relief, said Mr Walsh. Further incentives – including Green Investment Relief – could encourage farmers to adopt green tech like solar panels.

No major changes There were no major changes to the tax regime. The only change to Capital Gains Tax was an extension to the time pay tax due on gains from residential property from 30 days to 60 days.

Mr Walsh said: “Capital Gains Tax rates was not aligned to Income Tax as feared, and there was no change to the way it relates to estates that have already benefited from Agricultural and Business Property Relief.

Richard Playfair, of Saffery Champness, said farmers could stood to bene-

The Chancellor said his Budget would help boost productivity (Cubankite/Shutterstock.com)

fit from planned spending of £20bn on research and development by 2024-25 – with an announcement that tax relief for qualifying R&D will be restricted to UK activity.

Mr Playfair added: “I would hope that a portion of this funding will filter down to research and development, innovation and new thinking in the agri-tech sector.”

Spending plan reveals £315m funding gap

R

ural businesses will lose out on hundreds of millions of pounds following the Budget, says the Country Land and Business Association.

Spending plans under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) will lead to a shortfall of £315m for rural businesses over a seven-year period, says the CLA. It says the plan calls into question the government’s pledge to “level up” the countryside.

The figure represents the discrepancy in government funding assigned to tackling regional economic disparities through the EU’s Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), versus what will be received under the UKSPF to bolster rural productivity.

It signals a marked shift from previous

38 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

EU investment models, where rural areas benefitted from a ringfenced fund every year. The CLA says the 2021/2022 Budget Red Book shows there will be no dedicated funding in the UKSPF for rural businesses.

The funding has traditionally helped to fund 40% of the capital expenditure required to diversify farms into high-growth, highproductivity sectors such as tourism, food processing and digital creativity.

Testing time CLA president Mark Bridgeman said the spending cut came at an already financially testing time for farmers and landowners. It effectively limited the availability of grants to rural businesses seeking to diversify.

“Too often there is a lack of opportunity in the countryside that drives people away.

We want to create businesses, create jobs and prosperity – but we need government support to do it. This cut is a major backward step.”

The CLA says the rural economy is already 18% less productive than the national economy as a whole. It estimates that closing this gap would add an estimated £43bn to the economy.

“This move suggests that the government has no ambition for boosting prosperity in these areas. It has abandoned any hope of unleashing the countryside’s economic potential and is simply further entrenching the rural-urban divide.”

Green Belt vs Our Housing Crisis Rarely a week goes by without headlines reporting on our housing crisis, but these are often equally matched by calls to “keep our Green Belt green”. Is this a battle in which there will always be a winner and a loser, or can housing be delivered whilst maintaining the integrity of this long standing designation?

The 1947 Planning Act formally introduced the planning system as we know it and the Green Belt classification. It now accounts for 12.5% of the country’s land mass, an area greater than that currently developed. It is often celebrated as the greatest success of our planning system but with an ever-growing housing crisis there is increasing pressure to revaluate the role of Green Belt and whether it delivers the social and environmental benefits often quoted?

There are often misconceptions about what Green Belt land is. Its main purpose is preventing urban sprawl and maintain openness. What it is not, is a designation which recognises landscape quality or environmental significance. Whilst there is land both classified for its landscape value and ecological significance, which is within the Green Belt, this is not the reason for its classification and this land is subject to its own policies which protect its important status. Statistics from CPRE, The Countryside Charity, actually identifies that over half of Green Belt land is considered to be either diverging or neglected.

There are often claims that the Green Belt plays a vital role in providing outdoor recreation and access to open countryside. It is true that an astounding 7% of London’s Green Belt is golf courses, however two thirds of Green Belt is within agricultural use which is largely inaccessible.

Only 3.4% of Green Belt is designated open access land and whilst the policy encourages opportunities for public access and environmental improvements, there are no powers to secure this.

There is also the assumption that Green Belt is in fact green. This again is a slight misconception, whilst many hectares are managed countryside, over 110,000 hectares is developed, this equates to nearly 7% of all Green Belt.

The perceived threat to our Green Belt comes largely from the need to find a solution to our long-standing housing crisis. There are an unacceptable 1.6 million families on housing waiting lists and over 80,000 households trapped in temporary accommodation which costs the taxpayer an estimated £1 billion per year.

A survey undertaken by Shelter indicates that one in three of us do not have access to a safe or suitable home. There is an undisputable need for a significant boost in the supply of housing but an ever-decreasing amount of land to provide them on. There is no doubt that Green Belt policy has been overwhelmingly successful, and nobody can deny the vital importance of protecting our environment and ensuring communities can access high quality green open space, but have we become blinded to the reality of what today’s Green Belt is, and can we imagine an alternative role?

Could Green Belt policy be more sophisticated? A policy which provides effective protection of land which has genuine environmental or recreational purpose whilst releasing suitable land for much needed homes?

There are already numerous land classifications which Councils could use to provide meaningful protection such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), National Parks and Metropolitan Open Land. These could be extended, or new classifications created to protect those areas that local people feel were significant to their community.

At the same time Councils would need to remove the disproportionate weight given to the protection of Green Belt land. Of course, we need to protect our green spaces, but this shouldn’t mean that low quality land is safeguarded at all costs. We need our Councils to judge land on its suitability in terms of best meeting social, economic and environmental aims.

Housebuilders also have their part to play by delivering high quality developments which provide the range of homes needed in an attractive and sustainable environment which are seen to provide tangible benefits to both existing and future communities.

It’s time for a well-informed debate on the subject, but we need to avoid assuming the standard positions of Green Belt protection verses housing development. There is an alternative way, but it will require a significant change in policy from Central Government. Despite the commitment by all political parties to resolve the housing crisis, a fundamental reform to the Green Belt will require political courage, something that no Prime Minister has dared to do so far.

Could your land have development potential?

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Victoria Groves Associate Planning Director 01256 637914 victoriag@catesbyestates.co.uk

Anglia

Professional services

How to secure better future for your farm •

•

•

Expert advice for farming families Agriculture faces massive changes Planning ahead is seen as essential

A

new guide book aims to help growers and livestock producers secure a better future for their farm business – with help from more than 40 experts.

Coordinated by the Farming Community Network (FCN) charity, the book includes a range of information about financial security, succession planning, diversification through a series of Q&As, articles and real-life case studies.

It follows the FCN’s recent Time To Plan campaign, which saw the charity work with other organisations across agriculture to develop useful information to support farmers in planning ahead and managing change.

The FCN supports farmers and their families through difficult times.

Many of the 6000 people who contact the charity every year do so because of issues they are experiencing on the farm that cause them stress or anxiety for the future.

Issues include include financial worries, family disputes, mental health and animal disease.

Essential information FCN chief executive Jude McCann said: “With UK agriculture undergoing significant changes, we anticipate a greater volume of calls to our Helpline as farming families adapt, modify their businesses and in some instances choose to leave farming altogether.

“

We need to ensure farmers are well supported

Explaining that the book contained useful information to support decision making, Mr McCann added: “We need to ensure farmers are well supported at this time and have access to as much information as possible in order to make informed decisions.

40 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

“With a focus on planning ahead, normalising change and encouraging farmers to consider areas such as will writing and Powers of Attorney, we hope it will be an important resource for many farmers during this uncertain and challenging time.

The publication’s lead sponsors are the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust and NSF. Additional support was provided

by Westpoint Farm Vets. Tax, accountancy and financial services advice was provided by Simpkins Edwards.

Jude McCann hopes the book will help farmers make informed decisions

Big changes NFU Mutual Charitable Trust chairman Jim McLaren said farming faced an ever-shifting landscape – including significant changes to farm support, the threat of food imports produced to lower standards, the impact of the pandemic and the growing influence of technology.

“Farmers must be ready to adapt to these changes, taking a hard look at their businesses and potentially making tough decisions for the future,” said Mr McLaren.

“The Journey Ahead book has been compiled to support farmers in considering their options, highlighting a range of expertise and guidance from across the industry. It’s resources like these that make the FCN a vital lifeline for farmers.”

NSF UK Agriculture associate director Janatha Stout echoed that sentiment, adding: “Effective planning and preparation are the cornerstones for managing change – and our agricultural industry is facing its biggest changes since the post-war period.”

The confidential FCN Helpline number is 03000 111 999. Digital copies of The Journey Ahead book can be downloaded from www.fcn.org.uk/ the-journey-ahead

Agricultural law team expands to meet demand

L

aw firm Shakespeare Martineau has enlarged the size of its agricultural team to meet growing demand for its specialist legal services.

During the past year, partner Amy Cowdell, legal director Jennie Wheildon and solicitor Kimberley Brookes have all joined the team – bringing with them more than 30 years’ combined experience in agricultural law.

Head of agriculture Peter Snodgrass said: “The legal requirements of the agricultural sector can be complex and we recognise the importance of having access to an expert team of lawyers who understand and have experience of the multitude of challenges that can affect a farming business.

“Farmers and land managers deal with ever growing and more diverse businesses. These issues require specialist legal support and advice they can rely on. We understand farming and the pressures our clients have to contend with.”

As a full service law firm, the agricultural team draws on wider expertise from other Shakespeare Martineau departments. Areas include inheritance tax, development land, planning, farm disputes and renewable energy.

Mr Snodgrass said expansion would continue: “This enables us to support a farming business with all its legal requirements, whether commercial development opportunities, diversification or energy and renewables.”

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FARMING AND TREES GO HAND IN HAND Can trees really help you diversify your farm without you having to change the way you farm and your way of life?

Yes. A woodland could help you more easily diversify your farm business without the need for you to change your main farming activities.

With the recent launch of the new England Woodland Creation Offer, there has never been so much funding available or so much to be gained from planting trees: • Capital grant payments designed to cover 100% of planting costs.

• Supplementary payments for public benefits provided by your scheme.

• Woodland generated carbon income.

• Increased amenity and overall value of your farm.

• Sheltering livestock.

• Income from the timber and fuel for your home.

• Enhance or create recreational and sporting activities.

• Wildlife habitat enhancement.

• Flood alleviation both on the farm and the locality.

A typical new woodland planting with a diverse species range

Trees can thrive on that area of your land that just won’t grow a decent crop or has never provided a reasonable bite for livestock. This is the area that you can convert from lost leader to winner to bring in that extra bit of income and value.

CARBON – OPEN SESAME? Farmers can benefit from the woodland carbon market by growing a woodland. A win-win as the

trees are planted for you, paid for by someone else, but you get to reap all the benefits including the timber income.

Tilhill has been planning, creating, and planting woodlands on farms for years. We are in a unique position to help you secure carbon funding and planting grants and guide you through the process of planting trees on your farm. Our carbonoffsetting arm, CarbonStore, unites farmers with land suitable for tree planting with companies keen to help offset their carbon emissions.

It really is an exciting time to be a farmer with land that can support trees, there really is no better time to plant trees than today, and there really has been no better time to gain an income from tree planting on land that’s not currently realising its true potential.

Trees can complement and enhance your livelihood, your farm, your family, and your next generation without altering your business.

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42 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

Professional services

Farmers need the right skills for industry change

G

rowers and livestock producers should prepare now to help their businesses survive looming changes to agriculture, farmers have been told.

Businesses who are prepared for and embrace change will be able to exploit the opportunities that always come with periods of evolution in the industry, said Nicholas Saphir, chairman of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

“The industry needs to get on the front foot,” Mr Saphir told the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) National Farm Management Conference in London.

“There will be opportunities to grow new crops, to grow crops differently or to grow crops for new uses such as nutraceuticals. For livestock farmers, increases in quality and provenance and innovation will offer potential.

“However, only around a third of farmers appreciate the extent of change that is coming and are preparing for it. The challenge now is to increase this proportion and get businesses thinking their way to success.”

Central to the development of a farm business capable of competing efficiently in the new post-subsidy and post-Brexit world will be developing the necessary skills, Mr Saphir told 230 delegates at the QEII Centre, Westminster, on 16 November.

Even the biggest farming businesses are having to adjust. David Fursdon, chairman of Dyson Farming, which farms more than 14,000ha (35,000 acres) said labour availability would remain a big issue.

“To do well, you will need to look after your staff and equip them for the new ways of doing things,” said Mr Fursdon. “This will involve looking at areas such as wages and accommodation but also at how they are trained and what they are trained in.”

People working on farms were already mechanics, soil scientists, accountants, agronomists and livestock husbandry specialists.

But a mix of additional new skills would become increasingly important.

“New technologies that will pave the way to greater efficiency will mean farm business-

es will require data analysts, specialist skills in drone operation, robotics, GPS systems and aerial analysis, to name a few.”

The effective adoption of precision farming techniques is seen as a key driver of financial and environmental sustainability. But achieving this will require more structured training and development – and a willingness to recruit from other industries.

Lisa Williams, business development director of the Agri-Epi agricultural engineering precision innovation centre, said technology wouldn’t solve problems on its own – but it could be part of the overall solution.

“Technologies have to be relevant to the farm, driving change and demonstrating clear value and impact,” said Ms Williams. “Then the skills are needed to optimise the delivery of the technology on farm.”

Velcourt chairman James Townsend said: “Farming businesses in the future will require more management rather than less – but management will have to have a broader range of skills and expertise than it does today.”

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DECEMBER 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 43

Professional services

Boom in pet-friendly farm holidays

F

arms with holiday lets are perfectly placed to take advantage on a boom in pet vacations, suggests a survey.

Some 95% of dog owners are looking to take their pet on holiday, according to the NFU Mutual study. It found that 60% of owners always take their dog away with them – with only 5% always leaving pets at home.

Holiday accommodation ventures have experienced a surge in bookings following the coronavirus pandemic.

They include caravans, campsites and B&Bs – the most popular type of diversification, found on 12% of UK farms.

NFU Mutual hospitality specialist Darren Seward said: “Often boasting rural locations perfect for dog walks, these businesses are perfectly placed to cater for the surge of dog owners looking to take their pet away with them.”

Popular options Self-catered accommodation is the most popular option for those looking to take their dog away (considered by 85%). B&Bs (34%), camping (32%) and

glamping (18%) were also highlighted as emerging trends.

The most popular holiday destinations for dogs were Cornwall in top place (30%), followed by the Lake District (25%), the Scottish Highlands (24%), and Devon (20%). But other places – including in East Anglia and the Midlands – are in demand too.

Jules and David Mold, who own farm-based Meadow Field Luxury Glamping, made one of their tents dog-friendly when they opened their farm holiday business last July near Rugby, Warwickshire.

“Our location and the nature of our accommodation make us an appealing option for dog owners. Not wanting to exclude dog-owners and their pets, we designated one of the tents to be dog friendly, while keeping the other dogfree for allergy reasons.

“We strive to provide whatever will make our guests comfortable during their stay, and that extends to visiting pets. We supply a dog bed, food and water bowls, dog towels and waste disposal bags and bins.”

Outside the accommodation is a secure area where guests can let their dog run loose, a hose for muddy paws and a tether near the front of the tent so owners can keep their pet secure while enjoying time outside.

“I think it’s important to establish clear rules and make sure these have been communicated to visitors,” says Jules.

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How to pivot your Farming Business to deal with loss of BPS Farmers are facing once-in-a-generation decisions about the direction of their businesses.

Generating a positive financial return from agricultural production is going to become increasingly challenging as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is phased out, and major new legislation – much of it associated with mitigating climate change and fostering environmental benefits – is phased in.

“Marginal adjustments to production are important, but are not going to be enough to make up for the loss of BPS support,” says Jonathan Armitage, Head of Farming at Strutt & Parker. “Similarly, they are unlikely to help you negotiate the challenges and take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.”

So how do farmers go about preparing for this new chapter?

It requires examining your business in a different way to how you might have previously. You need to step back, view it objectively and consider options that will lead to a step-change in what you do and how you do it.

“This necessitates asking big – and sometimes tough – questions,” says Mr Armitage. “What am I doing and why?

What do I want to be doing? Am I up for the challenges of the future? What assets do I have at my disposal? What am I really good at?”

Contact us T: 07881 257178 M: rural.enquiries@struttandparker.com www.rural.struttandparker.com

Much is said about needing to farm sustainably from an environmental perspective, but businesses also need to be sustainable from a financial perspective.

This means they need to deliver profits and be resilient to the unexpected and unique challenges facing the business of farming.

“Getting the input of someone independent can be invaluable in this process – bringing a fresh eye, tabling questions you might be reluctant to ask yourself, presenting new options which may never have crossed your mind – then, of course, steering you through the process of changing your business so it is fit for purpose in the 21st century,” says Mr Armitage.

There will be difficult decisions to be made, as for some the best course of action might involve changing direction and shrinking some enterprises or letting others go completely. But there will be some exciting new business opportunities to be had – which will deliver profits and could herald a better quality of life for you and your family.

“If the figures point to you not being able to carry on as you currently are, consider your business structure,” he says.

“Collaborating with others through joint ventures can achieve economies of scale, but it also allows businesses to flourish by letting different stakeholders concentrate on the aspects at which they are best and creating space for investment in the best new techniques.”

Diversification is not a new phenomenon in the farming sector, but now is the time to start thinking about it in the widest sense of the word. It will spool out beyond the ‘traditional’ opportunities farmers have explored – such as letting buildings – into new customer-facing trading businesses, large-scale renewable energy projects, or areas such as selling carbon credits and other ecosystem services.

Another area to explore in terms of generating new income streams is unlocking the planning potential of land and buildings. Caroline McDade, Head of Planning, says: “Over the past couple of years, we have seen reforms in the planning system which are already creating new opportunities in rural areas – such as amendments to permitted development rights, giving landowners greater flexibility in the conversion of farm buildings.

“We are also already working with some landowners to generate revenues by helping developers meet their Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) obligations.”

Many farmers will need support when it comes to navigating the changing landscape they face. As advisers, we can offer an objective appraisal of the options on offer, which takes into account your own goals, the farm’s economics and your financial and tax position, so you can make an informed choice about the future direction of your business.

FINAL SAY Clodhopper

Local homes for local people?

Affordable housing developments must not be blocked by the privileged few, says Clophopper.

W

i th grain prices heading towards £300/t, many people outside agriculture could be forgiven for thinking its happy days for arable farmers.

But prices aren’t the only thing going up – so too are input costs. As I write, red diesel is more than 70p/litre and nitrogen is heading towards £700/t. These are crazy prices and show little sign of easing soon. In fact, input costs are so high that I wonder are we actually any better off?

As ever, diversification is still an important breadwinner on many farms. One crop that still outperforms all others is bricks and mortar. Farmland in or close to local villages make useful residential development sites.

If local planning rules restrict your progress then a different way forward might be a Community Land Trust (CLT). They provide local housing for local people and the planning system is often more sympathetic to granting permission.

1000 Words / Shutterstock.com

Rural exceptions Some land may be classified as a rural exception site. These are small sites that would not normally be used for housing but can be used for affordable housing – and with it cheaper rents, part-rent, part-mortgage agreements and discounted sale prices.

Villages can set up their own CLT. These are non elected people who take it upon them-

46 MIDLAND FARMER • DECEMBER 2021

selves to offer their services for the better of their community or village. They have a call for land and consider all applications on a fair basis.

Landowners submitting land forward should not expect building land prices but should be prepared to commit to helping and giving back to the community. All good so far but not all experiences with local CLTs have turned out perfect.

A recent submission of two parcels of land by a local farmer to a CLT in a small village near me has caused much upset and unrest.

The landowner assumed that the self-elected CLT trustees would consider his submission of land favourably and his desire to give back to the village positively.

No consultation But underhand tactics by some trustees and local councillors have made the experience one

“

Underhand tactics meant bitter recriminations

of bitter recriminations. Needless to say, the CLT and chairman of the local parish council reached a decision without consulting local residents.

The result was that the CLT was shot down in flames, forcing resignations and leaving the local village with no CLT and no affordable local housing. The landowner assumed the process would have been fair and transparent – but it was sadly not the case.

To make matters worse, the local landowner got the blame for the whole sorry state of affairs. Despite trying to do his best for the local community, he found his motives questioned by people who really should have known better.

Quick profit Facing accusations he was trying to make a quick profit, the landowner complained to the local council – only to find his complaint rejected. It seems that the sleaze and corruption engulfing the government nationally has filtered down to local councils.

Like the country, the village is finding it hard to unite and the arguments are ongoing. Despite the long-held assumption that all things are fair in local politics, it is clear that some local councils and local councillors often pursue their own agenda.

My advice is beware of the pitfalls when offering any land to a CLT. The intention to provide local people with local houses at affordable prices might not always be at the top of the agenda. And the process is sometimes not what it should be.

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£57,500.00

£68,750.00

£95,000.00

35 HP, ROPS Tyres: 7-14 AG 9.5-24 AG

2020, 1005 Hrs, 140 HP Tyres: 480/65R28 WA (90%) 600/65R38 WF (90%)

2018, 1950 Hrs, 170 HP Tyres: 16.9R28 (80%) 20.8R38 (80%)

2017, 3209 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (50%) 650/65R42 (60%)

LESS THAN

1500 1000 HOURS

2018, 2751 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (100%) 650/65R42 (50%)

2016, 2305 Hrs, 375 HP Tyres: 600/65R34 (50%) 710/75R42 (60%)

LESS THAN

1000 500 HOURS

N174V

T174EA

T174EA

T174EA

T194A

T234V

£69,850.00

£66,750.00

£70,850.00

£84,450.00

£89,750.00

£74,950.00

MF TH.7038

MANITOU MLT 634 PS

MANITOU MLA T533

MERLO P26.6 SPT

MERLO 42.7 4WD

2017, 2015 Hrs, 185 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (80%) 650/60R38 (80%)

2017, 1565 Hrs, 180 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (75%) 650/65R38 (80%)

2018, 1605 Hrs, 185 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (80%) 650/65R38 (90%)

2020, 773 Hrs, 180 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (90%) 650/65R38 (95%)

2020, 400 Hrs, 200 HP Tyres: 650/65R42 (95%) 540/65R30 (95%)

2018, 3448 Hrs, 240 HP Tyres: (50%) 540/65R30 650/65R42 TRELLEBORG

LESS THAN

1500 1000 HOURS

MF TH.7038 Year: 2017, 860 Hrs Tyres: 500/70R24 Micheline 90%

£56,000.00

Year: 2017, 1615 Hrs Tyres: 500/70 R24 (60%) 7m Lift, 3800kg

Year: 2016 Tyres: 460/70R24 (100%) 2704 Hrs

Year: 2018, 143 HP M-Vario Hydro CVT Transmission

Year: 2003 (40%) Tyres 7078 Hrs

Year: 2017, 4200 Hrs 7m Reach, 4200kg lift Michelin Tyres: (50%)

£46,000.00

£45,000.00

£65,650.00

£18,750.00

FORD RANGER

ISUZI D-MAX

MITSUBISHI L200

NISSAN NAVARA

NISSAN NAVARA 2017 (17) 2.3 Acenta Manual Double Cab 60,065 Miles

TOYOTA HILUX

2018 (18) 2.3 Tekna Auto Double Cab 31,837 Miles

£18,990.00

£22,790.00 (NO VAT)

£16,790.00

£19,990.00

£16,690.00

£17,490.00

2017 (67) 2.2 TDCi Auto Double Cab 64,476 Miles

2016 (66) 2.5 BLADE Manual Double Cab 54,850 Miles

2018 (18) 2.4 Di-D Manual 61,080 Miles

Errors and omissions excepted. All prices +VAT

Ag ; Graham Peall: 07970 121109 Andrew Elms: 07860 464753 Pick-Up’s ; Richard Young / Adam Swales: 01476 590077

£44,000.00

2015 (15) 2.5 D-4D Manual Double Cab 39,013 Miles