Old farm buildings revived to kick-start rural regeneration
Old farm buildings revived to kick-start rural regeneration
FARMERS should be encouraged to let redundant agricultural buildings, says CLA president, Ewen Cameron.
During a visit to Shucknall Court Farm, Hereford, he challenged EU, Westminster and local authority politicians to visit what he described as "a blueprint for rural economic diversification". The 14 businesses operating on the site employed 28 people, and flourished in harmony with cider apple growing, stock grazing and arable farming, he said.
The 28,000 agricultural jobs lost since 1992 had left a damaging economic vacuum. New businesses could provide a lifeline, which would become even more important as CAP reform cut industry support.
"For a more secure and sustainable countryside we have to establish other income-generating activities," Mr Cameron said. "Reform of the Town and Country Planning Acts to make it easier to obtain permission for changing the use of farm buildings would kick-start the process."
Henry Moore, who developed the Shucknall Court buildings, said it took at least six months to complete the planning procedure, and each application cost £120. He claimed delays were even longer where structural alterations were required, so changes had been minimised and only £6000 spent, mainly on installing electricity supplies and toilet facilities.
Rents of £1.50 to £1.75 a sq ft were collected on two- and three-year leases, compared with £3 to £4 on modern purpose-built industrial parks in the area, Mr Moore added.
Philip Baker, a partner in Trionic Joinery, which took the first portal frame building nine years ago, said the rent was very competitive.
He and his workers, who made bespoke doors, window frames and staircases, also appreciated being part of a small business community, and having the chance to work in the countryside.
Mr Moore said it was a lot easier collecting rents than trying to farm profitably and the change had created additional jobs.n
Ewen Cameron (right) hears that the chance to work in the countryside, appeals to Philip Baker.