North-west farmers urged to consider offering Fresh Starts to young farmers

North-west farmers looking to retire or restructure and their professional advisers are being encouraged to consider the opportunities provided by the Fresh Start initiative.

Don Curry, chairman of the Government’s Sustainable Food and Farming group, will be among the speakers addressing a conference held by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors on 12 March where the benefits of Fresh Start will be highlighted.

Fresh Start aims to link farmers and landowners with talented young farmers who can help them expand their businesses or allow them to cut their daily hands-on involvement.

David Coulson of land agent Broadley & Coulson, who is helping to organise the conference, said he thought many farmers were not sure how to step down.

“It’s not sustainable for some people to carry on as they are. They either need to diversify or retire. And if you’re planning to restructure why go it alone?”

The conference, which will also look at the tax and legal implications when restructuring a farm business,  is being held at Kendal Town Hall and costs £115 for RICS members and £130 for others.

For more details contact 01925 633363.