The Farmland Market and other Press Releases

 

Confidence High in Agriculture

Confidence in the market place has increased recently on the back of higher prices. Unfortunately higher input costs have put a slight damper on things but the overall feeling is that of optimism. After all world population is growing fast, diets are improving thanks to increased wealth in some developing countries and food is seemingly in short supply.

According to the UN, 37 countries are currently facing some kind of food crisis due mainly to an increase in world food prices, 56% up on last year. So all optimism then? Well yes if your business plan is robust enough. Fertiliser prices are set to carry on increasing on the basis that energy prices continue to rise. It may be that nitrogen passes £200 per tonne pre christmas and well beyond in the early part of next year. In addition fuel costs have a huge impact on overhead costs for most farm types as does electricity etc. Without budgeting and cashflow monitoring in place the increased income could be wiped out by increased costs.

If you would like assistance with making sure your business maintains and even increases profit in these challenging times give our farm management team a call. 01305 251790.

Authors Home For Sale

Spring 2008 is starting exactly the same as last year – plenty of buyers chasing very few properties.  The result was entirely predictable – land prices went up but the speed and strength of that price rise took many by surprise.  Despite all the problems of sub prime mortgages the farm and land markets look set to go up again this year.

Matters will first be tested with a sale of Dame Babette Cole’s Holnest Park Stud, near Sherborne. The famous childrens author and illustrator is selling this delightful traditional farmhouse with consent to extend, excellent stable block, outbuildings and about 22 acres.

Charles Matthews says “this is just the sort of property that remains in very short supply.  With excellent schools nearby, conversion possibilities with the stables and a guide price of £1,000,000 we expect strong demand”.

To contact Charles or Andrew Tuffin ring 01258 472244

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rural Development Programme

The South West prospectus for the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) 2007-2013 was launched this week. At last we can look forward to the new round of grants to be announced in the next few weeks. There are three main 'axes' to the fund which are aimed at developing rural businessess and communities. Natural England and the forestry commission will control the funds to be distributed through Axis 2 which will account for 80% of the total budget of £3.9 billion nationally. Axis 1,  10% of the total national budget and managed by the regional RDA's will concentrate on 'improving the competitiveness of the farming and forestry sectors'. Axis 3 also 10% of the national budget and run by the regional RDA's will be aimed at 'Improving the quality of life in rural areas and promoting diversification of the rural economy.

The funding will be issued in two ways, firstly more or less through individuals and small business and secondly larger scale projects. In the south west the SWRDA has highlighted 8 key areas to direct their funding efforts. These are as follows:

 - Skills development
 - social enterprise
 - Business support
 - Supply chain and adding value
 - Resource management (soil, water, air)
 - Sustainable rural tourism
 - Biodiversity and landscape
 - Community led development

As with any grants the proportion of the project cost eligible will vary and the schemes will be competitive. Therefore if you are considering a project that may involve planning permission or business planning in advance of an application for support now may be the time to take the idea to the next step. You can do this by giving our farm mangement team in Dorchester a call on 01305 251790 or by calling Simon Gardner direct on 07875 662982.

Cross Compliance Auditing Service

The farm management department based in Dorchester have launched a new Cross Compliance audit.

“The cross compliance audit allows farmers claiming SFP to have a overview of their farm that aims to highlight any areas that may need attention. We can then help address the issues highlighted” explains new recruit to the department, Simon Gardner.

The idea of the audit is to help farmers reduce the chances of issues arising out of an RPA cross compliance audit before it happens and to highlight what areas need to be considered on an ongoing basis by the farmer.

If you require any further information please call the farm management team in Dorchester on 01305 251790.