Don't hold back - you will regret it

While Michael Gove has confirmed the current support system will remain until 2024 there is scope for payments to reduce. Any subsequent system has not yet been divulged.

My inclination is that standard area-based payments will be reduced with more money available for environmental schemes. Following reduced support it will be even more important for analysis of each enterprise - they all need to be profitable.

Many businesses have been looking ahead, to set up a new enterprise to smooth out volatility in prices and not be reliant on subsidy. Free range egg units are currently very appealing. We are advising several farmers on planning applications and hope Shropshire Council’s ecologists’ recently enhanced caution doesn’t hinder applicants. We are lobbying them to follow the approved ammonia thresholds.

Risk-averse businesses might wish to take advantage of environmental schemes particularly if they have areas of low output land. Others which are well equipped and staffed for the future are likely to focus on high output and accept they will need to manage volatility.

Reduced support levels are likely to lead to more land being let out, creating opportunities. The last five to 10 years have seen some very impressive diversification on small farms – financial pressure can flush out creative enterprises outside of a farmer’s normal comfort zone. While the Basic Payment Scheme provides comfort, it doesn’t catalyse progress.

Intensive livestock units and large dairy farms may face increased scrutiny on safe manure spreading near watercourses. Muck for straw swaps are likely to be increasingly common.

Challenges are ahead, so is opportunity. We have seen volatility before. Halls has helped many farmers and landowners secure planning consent for new ventures. Grant funding under the LEADER Scheme has been available to many more applicants than in the previous ten years for other schemes.

It is very pleasing to see farmers and businesses invest in a new enterprise. Some risk is always involved. Every business which I have seen diversify in the last 10 years has reaped the reward and is glad it took that decision. If you are thinking of a new project don’t hold back.

Shaun Jones, Halls, Shrewsbury