The coming year is going to be a critical one for the countryside, its communities and the rural economy – according to the CLA.
It will, says CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, be the year in which most of the big decisions that will shape the future of the Common Agricultural Policy reform are made. It will also be the year in which the effects of the Government’s localism agenda begin to be felt when local people will have to grasp the nettle of local government and it will be the year when the South West will finally be able to tackle the menace of Bovine TB.
“The difficult financial circumstance facing the whole country means that the work we do to protect the asset base of the agricultural and land based industries will prove absolutely vital in the next 12 months.”
It was, he said, essential that the Government recognised the importance of engaging with the mainstream EU debate and arguing for sufficient funding to pay for what is needed to achieve the twin objectives of food and environmental security.
“It is hard to overstate the importance of the decisions which will be taken during 2011 relating to the CAP - we need a policy that will promote and protect our ability, to produce food over the long term but not at the expense of the environment – and that may require us to find new ways of farming or news, and different, incentives for positive land management.”
Mr Mortimer said that as the Government moves to implement its localism agenda it will be essential for rural people to engage in the process.
“The devolution of power to a local level and the establishment of Local Enterprise Partnerships will mean that planning and the strategic economic lead for local areas will be in the hands of local communities. It is good news that the Government has recognised the need for reforms to the planning system but they need to get it right. We need a system that is flexible, transparent and efficient - not a charter for the ‘Nimby’.
“That is why it will be essential that rural voices are heard and that rural businesses get involved so that their concerns are recognised within the new structure.”
He said the Government should be congratulated for facing up to the magnitude of the bovine TB problems and for setting out a package of measures which will, at last, start to bring the disease under control – but this must not, he warned, be allowed to slip down the agenda during 2011.
"Finally, we have a commitment from the Government to roll out superfast broadband by 2015 – but watch out because when providers talk of broadband for all, too often they mean all the people they can get to easily. Our members are the ones that get left out because they’re at the end of the lane or the wrong side of the hill. What we want is a Universal Service Obligation which requires broadband service providers to supply superfast broadband to every single door by 2015,” he said.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
CLA launches ‘High Hopes’ for the Uplands
Realising the true potential of the South West’s upland areas will require co-operation between government departments and a convincing delivery structure – according to a CLA policy paper launched today (Monday 20 December).
The CLA report on the Uplands titled: “High Hopes” is a follow-up to the Commission for Rural Communities report of July 2010 - but expands on its themes and recommendations.
The report says that there is no single - or simple - set of policy adjustments required to help realise all the potential of our upland areas and argues that several government departments and many distinct areas of government policy will need to be involved in the process.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer said: “The Uplands are immensely important to society because their active management - by farmers, foresters and sporting interests - provides vital goods and services of food, water, wildlife, landscape and a wonderful choice of leisure and tourism opportunities.”
The CLA is concerned because of the low or negative financial margins in one of the core activities of upland farmers – grazing livestock production. Mr Mortimer said many such businesses survive only because of public payments – but he warned that the future of these payments and their value was uncertain. A radical rethink of the way upland farms are supported by the EU Common Agricultural Policy is needed.
“Currently upland land managers provide a range of goods and services which the market does not pay for, but their ability to achieve sufficient income to enable essential ongoing reinvestment in their businesses is critical to the future of the Uplands. This goal will not be reached by selling agricultural products alone - economic diversification and the provision of environmental services such as water, climate protection, biodiversity and cultural landscape will become increasingly important,” he said.
The report makes more than 35 recommendations for sustaining the Uplands and focuses on the policy areas which the CLA believes require specific attention in order to release the real potential of the Uplands. In particular it examines changes in the main existing support policy, the Common Agricultural Policy; ideas for bringing in new sources of finance especially for carbon and water; the need for vital infrastructure - especially broadband - and, critically, changes in the planning system and its application to enable rural economic diversification and to provide affordable rural housing.
“To unlock the potential of our Uplands and to ensure delivery of this suite of measures requires real buy-in from Government and some leadership from upland society itself.
"There are a lot of good ideas around to do this, and the report of the Efra committee review and Defra’s internal Uplands project provide the opportunity to make rapid progress on this agenda.”
Download a copy of “High Hopes – CLA report on the Uplands” from: http://www.cla.org.uk/Policy_Work/CLA_Uplands_Report/
For further information on the CLA go to: www.cla.org.uk
Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/clasouthwest
The CLA report on the Uplands titled: “High Hopes” is a follow-up to the Commission for Rural Communities report of July 2010 - but expands on its themes and recommendations.
The report says that there is no single - or simple - set of policy adjustments required to help realise all the potential of our upland areas and argues that several government departments and many distinct areas of government policy will need to be involved in the process.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer said: “The Uplands are immensely important to society because their active management - by farmers, foresters and sporting interests - provides vital goods and services of food, water, wildlife, landscape and a wonderful choice of leisure and tourism opportunities.”
The CLA is concerned because of the low or negative financial margins in one of the core activities of upland farmers – grazing livestock production. Mr Mortimer said many such businesses survive only because of public payments – but he warned that the future of these payments and their value was uncertain. A radical rethink of the way upland farms are supported by the EU Common Agricultural Policy is needed.
“Currently upland land managers provide a range of goods and services which the market does not pay for, but their ability to achieve sufficient income to enable essential ongoing reinvestment in their businesses is critical to the future of the Uplands. This goal will not be reached by selling agricultural products alone - economic diversification and the provision of environmental services such as water, climate protection, biodiversity and cultural landscape will become increasingly important,” he said.
The report makes more than 35 recommendations for sustaining the Uplands and focuses on the policy areas which the CLA believes require specific attention in order to release the real potential of the Uplands. In particular it examines changes in the main existing support policy, the Common Agricultural Policy; ideas for bringing in new sources of finance especially for carbon and water; the need for vital infrastructure - especially broadband - and, critically, changes in the planning system and its application to enable rural economic diversification and to provide affordable rural housing.
“To unlock the potential of our Uplands and to ensure delivery of this suite of measures requires real buy-in from Government and some leadership from upland society itself.
"There are a lot of good ideas around to do this, and the report of the Efra committee review and Defra’s internal Uplands project provide the opportunity to make rapid progress on this agenda.”
Download a copy of “High Hopes – CLA report on the Uplands” from: http://www.cla.org.uk/Policy_Work/CLA_Uplands_Report/
For further information on the CLA go to: www.cla.org.uk
Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/clasouthwest
Decision to Tax Empty Buildings Described as Outrageous
The Government’s decision to scrap rate relief on empty business premises has been described as economically damaging by the Country Land and Business Association.
The decision, announced by Communities and Local Government Minister, Bob Neill, means rate relief on empty business properties with a rateable value of more than £2,600 will disappear from next April and the CLA says it will deliver a serious blow to the rural economy.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says there were many factors which might lead to business premises falling empty – but he said that the Government’s decision will punish the people who provide opportunities for small to medium-sized businesses to operate in the rural sector.
“These enterprises – often located in converted farm buildings - make a crucial contribution to the UK economy. But it is a tough market and this decision will act as a disincentive to investment for those providing and improving rural business premises to let. It is very frustrating that the Government extols the virtue of the private sector , but then seeks to limit its ambition through clumsy taxation”
Mr Mortimer warned that the move could have the reverse effect and, instead of raising revenue for the Government would be more likely to encourage owners to demolish buildings or render them unusable in order to avoid the tax.
The decision, announced by Communities and Local Government Minister, Bob Neill, means rate relief on empty business properties with a rateable value of more than £2,600 will disappear from next April and the CLA says it will deliver a serious blow to the rural economy.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says there were many factors which might lead to business premises falling empty – but he said that the Government’s decision will punish the people who provide opportunities for small to medium-sized businesses to operate in the rural sector.
“These enterprises – often located in converted farm buildings - make a crucial contribution to the UK economy. But it is a tough market and this decision will act as a disincentive to investment for those providing and improving rural business premises to let. It is very frustrating that the Government extols the virtue of the private sector , but then seeks to limit its ambition through clumsy taxation”
Mr Mortimer warned that the move could have the reverse effect and, instead of raising revenue for the Government would be more likely to encourage owners to demolish buildings or render them unusable in order to avoid the tax.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Broadband Delivery Will Require Big Solutions
Delivering fast effective broadband to rural communities will require big solutions in small places – according to the CLA, the rural economy people.
The CLA says the big issue for all rural businesses is broadband – and the Government’s commitment to invest £830million in high speed broadband provision across the whole country follows ten years of CLA led campaigning.
But the Association says that promises to deliver superfast broadband to everybody should mean exactly that and not just to the 90 per cent of the population which is easily accessible.
“The remaining ten per cent - which might not get access to high speed, high quality broadband - is the group we worry about. They are the farmers or remote rural businesses at the end of the lane and are too easily overlooked,” said CLA South West Director, John Mortimer.
The CLA is also concerned about the delivery mechanism – because although the Government has indicated it wants communities to put bids together, Mr Mortimer says that was unlikely to prove either practical or efficient for all communities to bid into the process.
“We certainly don’t want to see this become a competitive process. The reality is that it will be beyond the capability of most small communities to manage the process or to access the appropriate level of expertise. Effective broadband delivery will require the kind of strategic leadership we have seen provided by the Unitary Authorities in Cornwall and Wiltshire.
“The CLA will continue to provide the policy leadership but we now believe it should be the responsibility of the higher level local authorities to pull together strategic delivery and to ensure that the whole population can reap the benefits access to high quality, high speed broadband brings,” he said.
The CLA says the big issue for all rural businesses is broadband – and the Government’s commitment to invest £830million in high speed broadband provision across the whole country follows ten years of CLA led campaigning.
But the Association says that promises to deliver superfast broadband to everybody should mean exactly that and not just to the 90 per cent of the population which is easily accessible.
“The remaining ten per cent - which might not get access to high speed, high quality broadband - is the group we worry about. They are the farmers or remote rural businesses at the end of the lane and are too easily overlooked,” said CLA South West Director, John Mortimer.
The CLA is also concerned about the delivery mechanism – because although the Government has indicated it wants communities to put bids together, Mr Mortimer says that was unlikely to prove either practical or efficient for all communities to bid into the process.
“We certainly don’t want to see this become a competitive process. The reality is that it will be beyond the capability of most small communities to manage the process or to access the appropriate level of expertise. Effective broadband delivery will require the kind of strategic leadership we have seen provided by the Unitary Authorities in Cornwall and Wiltshire.
“The CLA will continue to provide the policy leadership but we now believe it should be the responsibility of the higher level local authorities to pull together strategic delivery and to ensure that the whole population can reap the benefits access to high quality, high speed broadband brings,” he said.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
CLA in Action
We met recently with a group of MPs from the South West and were able to give them a breakfast of regionally produced foods. We had a constructive meeting and were able to highlight the issues that concern you, our members.
In particular we congratulated them for the Government’s determination to tackle bovine TB with a package of measures which includes culling infected animals. We also congratulated them on the minister’s commitment to invest £830million in rolling out broadband across the country and to create rural hubs which will enable surrounding rural communities to leap frog on to fast broadband – something we have been campaigning for. We emphasised that what still concerns us is the seven or eight per cent of the country which will not receive high broadband speeds – as that will, inevitably, be the more remote, rural areas where access to effective broadband is as critical as it is anywhere else.
We spoke about coastal access and the fact that coastal properties and businesses were now facing an uncertain future with an act that had put a blight on properties into the future and we highlighted the extraordinary waste of public money on a project which will deliver little or no public good.
We discussed planning and our concerns about strategic planning across our region and we asked them to consider how we as a representative organisation might best access central government. We outlined our concerns about the way in which Local Enterprise Partnerships were being driven and the fact that we felt there was a genuine incompatibility between large urban conurbations and rural areas with an LEP context.
The Government’s Local Growth white paper has provided welcome recognition of the importance of the rural economy – something which simply further underlines the importance of there being effective rural representation on the new LEPs. The consensus was that the Government should be prepared to consider allowing rural areas – possibly quite large rural areas – to come together to form LEPs.
We spoke about the uplands and the importance of these not being designated on a height above sea level basis and we emphasised the importance of the public goods provided by our upland areas the cost of which could not be recouped from the market.
Finally we discussed the CAP – the likely problems and pitfalls and the need for a clear understanding among our home-based MPs of the implications for SW agriculture and land ownership post 2013.
I would also like to bring to your attention some specific technical seminars we will be holding in the New Year. Following the success and interest in our seminars in the south of the region looking at solar photovoltaics, we will be holding additional seminars on 11 January at Hartham Park in Wiltshire and on 18 January at Beaulieu Hotel in Hampshire in conjunction with the CLA South East region.
We have two legal seminars in Wiltshire with Thring Townsend Lee & Pembertons in February and Porter Dodson in Dorset in March.
With responsibility for strategic and local planning moving to new regimes we will be holding three seminars during January and February in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall. Fenella Collins, the CLA’s senior planning adviser will help members through the policy and update us on what the CLA will be lobbying for in future and more practically other speakers will address how to help you win difficult planning applications.
In particular we congratulated them for the Government’s determination to tackle bovine TB with a package of measures which includes culling infected animals. We also congratulated them on the minister’s commitment to invest £830million in rolling out broadband across the country and to create rural hubs which will enable surrounding rural communities to leap frog on to fast broadband – something we have been campaigning for. We emphasised that what still concerns us is the seven or eight per cent of the country which will not receive high broadband speeds – as that will, inevitably, be the more remote, rural areas where access to effective broadband is as critical as it is anywhere else.
We spoke about coastal access and the fact that coastal properties and businesses were now facing an uncertain future with an act that had put a blight on properties into the future and we highlighted the extraordinary waste of public money on a project which will deliver little or no public good.
We discussed planning and our concerns about strategic planning across our region and we asked them to consider how we as a representative organisation might best access central government. We outlined our concerns about the way in which Local Enterprise Partnerships were being driven and the fact that we felt there was a genuine incompatibility between large urban conurbations and rural areas with an LEP context.
The Government’s Local Growth white paper has provided welcome recognition of the importance of the rural economy – something which simply further underlines the importance of there being effective rural representation on the new LEPs. The consensus was that the Government should be prepared to consider allowing rural areas – possibly quite large rural areas – to come together to form LEPs.
We spoke about the uplands and the importance of these not being designated on a height above sea level basis and we emphasised the importance of the public goods provided by our upland areas the cost of which could not be recouped from the market.
Finally we discussed the CAP – the likely problems and pitfalls and the need for a clear understanding among our home-based MPs of the implications for SW agriculture and land ownership post 2013.
I would also like to bring to your attention some specific technical seminars we will be holding in the New Year. Following the success and interest in our seminars in the south of the region looking at solar photovoltaics, we will be holding additional seminars on 11 January at Hartham Park in Wiltshire and on 18 January at Beaulieu Hotel in Hampshire in conjunction with the CLA South East region.
We have two legal seminars in Wiltshire with Thring Townsend Lee & Pembertons in February and Porter Dodson in Dorset in March.
With responsibility for strategic and local planning moving to new regimes we will be holding three seminars during January and February in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall. Fenella Collins, the CLA’s senior planning adviser will help members through the policy and update us on what the CLA will be lobbying for in future and more practically other speakers will address how to help you win difficult planning applications.
Coastal Access Described as an Indefensible Waste of Money
The Government’s decision to push ahead with a costly coastal access scheme has been condemned as an indefensible waste of money by the CLA, the rural economy people.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says it is incomprehensible that Natural England is busy slashing funding which provides voluntary access arrangements and school visits to farms under stewardship schemes on the one hand while on the other pressing ahead with a project which will bring virtually no public benefit and cost millions of pounds to implement.
“At a time when we are seeing expenditure chopped from many important services it just defies belief that Natural England is being allowed to invest so much money in coastal access when it simply cannot be justified on the basis of need.”
Natural England is planning to boost access beside Weymouth Bay in time for the 2012 Olympics and to follow that with five other 20-mile stretches around the coast – including one between Minehead and Stert Point in Somerset and others along the south coast. CLA advisors met recently with landowners affected by the proposals Weymouth Bay proposals to hear their concerns.
The Weymouth Bay proposals are out for consultation until January 10 but CLA Regional Surveyor, Charlotte Sealy, said that more than a dozen local landowners had attended the CLA meeting – and all of them shared serious and genuine concerns about the way in which Natural England planned to implement coastal access.
Weymouth Bay, she said, was already well served by the South West Coast Path and by many permissive and voluntary agreements as well as statutory right of way. At one point there are three separate routes through a single field – a statutory footpath, the South West Coastal Path and now the new route.
“This duplication of access comes at immense cost to the public purse. Despite its promises to do so, Natural England has neither listened – nor intends to listen – to the concerns of private individuals about the impact of this legislation on their lives, business and property. It calls the whole of the Government’s priority and decision-making process seriously into question. If the Government felt it necessary to spend money on access, then it should concentrate on ensuring that the access we already have is properly signed, maintained and kept up to scratch,” said Mr Mortimer.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says it is incomprehensible that Natural England is busy slashing funding which provides voluntary access arrangements and school visits to farms under stewardship schemes on the one hand while on the other pressing ahead with a project which will bring virtually no public benefit and cost millions of pounds to implement.
“At a time when we are seeing expenditure chopped from many important services it just defies belief that Natural England is being allowed to invest so much money in coastal access when it simply cannot be justified on the basis of need.”
Natural England is planning to boost access beside Weymouth Bay in time for the 2012 Olympics and to follow that with five other 20-mile stretches around the coast – including one between Minehead and Stert Point in Somerset and others along the south coast. CLA advisors met recently with landowners affected by the proposals Weymouth Bay proposals to hear their concerns.
The Weymouth Bay proposals are out for consultation until January 10 but CLA Regional Surveyor, Charlotte Sealy, said that more than a dozen local landowners had attended the CLA meeting – and all of them shared serious and genuine concerns about the way in which Natural England planned to implement coastal access.
Weymouth Bay, she said, was already well served by the South West Coast Path and by many permissive and voluntary agreements as well as statutory right of way. At one point there are three separate routes through a single field – a statutory footpath, the South West Coastal Path and now the new route.
“This duplication of access comes at immense cost to the public purse. Despite its promises to do so, Natural England has neither listened – nor intends to listen – to the concerns of private individuals about the impact of this legislation on their lives, business and property. It calls the whole of the Government’s priority and decision-making process seriously into question. If the Government felt it necessary to spend money on access, then it should concentrate on ensuring that the access we already have is properly signed, maintained and kept up to scratch,” said Mr Mortimer.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings
Keep checking regularly to avoid getting caught out.
Keep checking regularly to avoid getting caught out.
Coastal Access Described as an Indefensible Waste of Money
The Government’s decision to push ahead with a costly coastal access scheme has been condemned as an indefensible waste of money by the CLA, the rural economy people.
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says it is incomprehensible that Natural England is busy slashing funding which provides voluntary access arrangements and school visits to farms under stewardship schemes on the one hand while on the other pressing ahead with a project which will bring virtually no public benefit and cost millions of pounds to implement.
“At a time when we are seeing expenditure chopped from many important services it just defies belief that Natural England is being allowed to invest so much money in coastal access when it simply cannot be justified on the basis of need.”
Natural England is planning to boost access beside Weymouth Bay in time for the 2012 Olympics and to follow that with five other 20-mile stretches around the coast – including one between Minehead and Stert Point in Somerset and others along the south coast. CLA advisors met recently with landowners affected by the Weymouth Bay proposals to hear their concerns.
The Weymouth Bay proposals are out for consultation until January 10 but CLA Regional Surveyor, Charlotte Sealy, said that more than a dozen local landowners had attended a recent CLA meeting – and all of them shared serious and genuine concerns about the way in which Natural England planned to implement coastal access.
Weymouth Bay, she said, was already well served by the South West Coast Path and by many permissive and voluntary agreements as well as statutory right of way. At one point there are three separate routes through a single field – a statutory footpath, the South West Coastal Path and now the new route.
“This duplication of access comes at immense cost to the public purse. Despite its promises to do so, Natural England has neither listened – nor intends to listen – to the concerns of private individuals about the impact of this legislation on their lives, business and property. It calls the whole of the Government’s priority and decision-making process seriously into question. If the Government felt it necessary to spend money on access, then it should concentrate on ensuring that the access we already have is properly signed, maintained and kept up to scratch,” said Mr Mortimer.
For Further Information Contact:
Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345
For Further Information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
CLA South West Director John Mortimer says it is incomprehensible that Natural England is busy slashing funding which provides voluntary access arrangements and school visits to farms under stewardship schemes on the one hand while on the other pressing ahead with a project which will bring virtually no public benefit and cost millions of pounds to implement.
“At a time when we are seeing expenditure chopped from many important services it just defies belief that Natural England is being allowed to invest so much money in coastal access when it simply cannot be justified on the basis of need.”
Natural England is planning to boost access beside Weymouth Bay in time for the 2012 Olympics and to follow that with five other 20-mile stretches around the coast – including one between Minehead and Stert Point in Somerset and others along the south coast. CLA advisors met recently with landowners affected by the Weymouth Bay proposals to hear their concerns.
The Weymouth Bay proposals are out for consultation until January 10 but CLA Regional Surveyor, Charlotte Sealy, said that more than a dozen local landowners had attended a recent CLA meeting – and all of them shared serious and genuine concerns about the way in which Natural England planned to implement coastal access.
Weymouth Bay, she said, was already well served by the South West Coast Path and by many permissive and voluntary agreements as well as statutory right of way. At one point there are three separate routes through a single field – a statutory footpath, the South West Coastal Path and now the new route.
“This duplication of access comes at immense cost to the public purse. Despite its promises to do so, Natural England has neither listened – nor intends to listen – to the concerns of private individuals about the impact of this legislation on their lives, business and property. It calls the whole of the Government’s priority and decision-making process seriously into question. If the Government felt it necessary to spend money on access, then it should concentrate on ensuring that the access we already have is properly signed, maintained and kept up to scratch,” said Mr Mortimer.
For Further Information Contact:
Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345
For Further Information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
CLA Takes a Look at a New Era in Planning
The coalition Government is shifting the agenda on planning with responsibility for strategic and local planning moving to new regimes and, according to the Country Land and Business Association, it will open a new era in planning.
CLA South West director, John Mortimer, said the way people prepare planning applications and the whole of the decision making process is about to undergo the most radical change in recent planning history.
In order to open the door on the future, the CLA has organised three seminars which will pull together experts from all aspects of the planning process. The seminars, which will be held in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall early in the New Year, will examine the process of putting together a planning application and offer essential tips on the pitfalls and priorities.
Mr Mortimer says that part of the Government’s localism agenda aims to give individuals and local communities the ability to determine their own future and to move away from the idea of strict planning envelopes and development limits. But CLA experts say there is a risk that planning issues will be decided only on their local impact rather than their strategic importance.
“We are going to have to take a new approach to planning and think about how we are going to win the hearts and minds of those who will hold the decision making powers? We need to look at how somebody preparing to apply for planning permission can set about getting their voice heard and convincing the local community that their application is right for the area.
“Shaping the future, planning the route from where we are to where we want to be and winning the argument – these are going to be the key issues within the planning debate in the future and this series of seminars will explore the PR, political and sustainability issues that are likely to help people win,” said Mr Mortimer.
The seminars will take place on Tuesday 25 January at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire; On Wednesday 26 January at The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset and on Tuesday 15 February at The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. The cost is £20 for CLA members and £30 for non-members. Places can be reserved on line at
www.cla.org.uk or www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents or by telephone on 01249 700200.
For further information please contact Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345.
CLA South West director, John Mortimer, said the way people prepare planning applications and the whole of the decision making process is about to undergo the most radical change in recent planning history.
In order to open the door on the future, the CLA has organised three seminars which will pull together experts from all aspects of the planning process. The seminars, which will be held in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall early in the New Year, will examine the process of putting together a planning application and offer essential tips on the pitfalls and priorities.
Mr Mortimer says that part of the Government’s localism agenda aims to give individuals and local communities the ability to determine their own future and to move away from the idea of strict planning envelopes and development limits. But CLA experts say there is a risk that planning issues will be decided only on their local impact rather than their strategic importance.
“We are going to have to take a new approach to planning and think about how we are going to win the hearts and minds of those who will hold the decision making powers? We need to look at how somebody preparing to apply for planning permission can set about getting their voice heard and convincing the local community that their application is right for the area.
“Shaping the future, planning the route from where we are to where we want to be and winning the argument – these are going to be the key issues within the planning debate in the future and this series of seminars will explore the PR, political and sustainability issues that are likely to help people win,” said Mr Mortimer.
The seminars will take place on Tuesday 25 January at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire; On Wednesday 26 January at The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset and on Tuesday 15 February at The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. The cost is £20 for CLA members and £30 for non-members. Places can be reserved on line at
www.cla.org.uk or www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents or by telephone on 01249 700200.
For further information please contact Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Landowners Take a Look on the Bright Side
South West landowners are being offered a chance to take a look on the bright side of life in the New Year – at seminars which will explore the opportunities and pitfalls of generating power from the sun.
The events follow a series of sell-out seminars organised by the Country Land and Business Association on photovoltaics and will bring top-level expertise to different parts of the region.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The CLA is organising two events in response to the overwhelming popularity of the subject. The first is being held at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire, on Wednesday 12 January and the second at the Beaulieu Hotel, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, on Tuesday 18 January. Both events will bring together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues.
In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to representatives of companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 and, with potentially long lead in times to get up and running, landowners should consider their options without delay if they are to benefit.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Places cost £15 for CLA members and £30 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
For Further information Please Contact CLA SW Communications Manager Paul Millard on 01380 830179 or 07831674345
The events follow a series of sell-out seminars organised by the Country Land and Business Association on photovoltaics and will bring top-level expertise to different parts of the region.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The CLA is organising two events in response to the overwhelming popularity of the subject. The first is being held at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire, on Wednesday 12 January and the second at the Beaulieu Hotel, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, on Tuesday 18 January. Both events will bring together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues.
In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to representatives of companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 and, with potentially long lead in times to get up and running, landowners should consider their options without delay if they are to benefit.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Places cost £15 for CLA members and £30 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
For Further information Please Contact CLA SW Communications Manager Paul Millard on 01380 830179 or 07831674345
CLA Takes a Look at a New Era in Planning
The coalition Government is shifting the agenda on planning with responsibility for strategic and local planning moving to new regimes and, according to the Country Land and Business Association, it will open a new era in planning.
CLA South West director, John Mortimer, said the way people prepare planning applications and the whole of the decision making process is about to undergo the most radical change in recent planning history.
In order to open the door on the future, the CLA has organised three seminars which will pull together experts from all aspects of the planning process. The seminars, which will be held in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall early in the New Year, will examine the process of putting together a planning application and offer essential tips on the pitfalls and priorities.
Mr Mortimer says that part of the Government’s localism agenda aims to give individuals and local communities the ability to determine their own future and to move away from the idea of strict planning envelopes and development limits. But CLA experts say there is a risk that planning issues will be decided only on their local impact rather than their strategic importance.
“We are going to have to take a new approach to planning and think about how we are going to win the hearts and minds of those who will hold the decision making powers? We need to look at how somebody preparing to apply for planning permission can set about getting their voice heard and convincing the local community that their application is right for the area.
“Shaping the future, planning the route from where we are to where we want to be and winning the argument – these are going to be the key issues within the planning debate in the future and this series of seminars will explore the PR, political and sustainability issues that are likely to help people win,” said Mr Mortimer.
The seminars will take place on Tuesday 25 January at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire;
On Wednesday 26 January atThe Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset and on Tuesday 15 February at The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. The cost is £20 for CLA members and £30 for non-members. Places can be reserved on line at
www.cla.org.uk or www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents or by telephone on 01249 700200.
For further information please contact Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345.
For further information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
CLA South West director, John Mortimer, said the way people prepare planning applications and the whole of the decision making process is about to undergo the most radical change in recent planning history.
In order to open the door on the future, the CLA has organised three seminars which will pull together experts from all aspects of the planning process. The seminars, which will be held in Wiltshire, Somerset and Cornwall early in the New Year, will examine the process of putting together a planning application and offer essential tips on the pitfalls and priorities.
Mr Mortimer says that part of the Government’s localism agenda aims to give individuals and local communities the ability to determine their own future and to move away from the idea of strict planning envelopes and development limits. But CLA experts say there is a risk that planning issues will be decided only on their local impact rather than their strategic importance.
“We are going to have to take a new approach to planning and think about how we are going to win the hearts and minds of those who will hold the decision making powers? We need to look at how somebody preparing to apply for planning permission can set about getting their voice heard and convincing the local community that their application is right for the area.
“Shaping the future, planning the route from where we are to where we want to be and winning the argument – these are going to be the key issues within the planning debate in the future and this series of seminars will explore the PR, political and sustainability issues that are likely to help people win,” said Mr Mortimer.
The seminars will take place on Tuesday 25 January at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire;
On Wednesday 26 January atThe Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset and on Tuesday 15 February at The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. The cost is £20 for CLA members and £30 for non-members. Places can be reserved on line at
www.cla.org.uk or www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents or by telephone on 01249 700200.
For further information please contact Paul Millard CLA SW Communications Manager on 01380 830179 or 07831 674345.
For further information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
Landowners Take a Look on the Bright Side
South West landowners are being offered a chance to take a look on the bright side of life in the New Year – at seminars which will explore the opportunities and pitfalls of generating power from the sun.
The events follow a series of sell-out seminars organised by the Country Land and Business Association on photovoltaics and will bring top-level expertise to different parts of the region.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The CLA is organising two events in response to the overwhelming popularity of the subject. The first is being held at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire, on Wednesday 12 January and the second at the Beaulieu Hotel, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, on Tuesday 18 January. Both events will bring together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues.
In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to representatives of companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 and, with potentially long lead in times to get up and running, landowners should consider their options without delay if they are to benefit.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Places cost £15 for CLA members and £30 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
For Further information Please Contact CLA SW Communications Manager Paul Millard on 01380 830179 or 07831674345
For Further Information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
The events follow a series of sell-out seminars organised by the Country Land and Business Association on photovoltaics and will bring top-level expertise to different parts of the region.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The CLA is organising two events in response to the overwhelming popularity of the subject. The first is being held at Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire, on Wednesday 12 January and the second at the Beaulieu Hotel, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, on Tuesday 18 January. Both events will bring together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues.
In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to representatives of companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 and, with potentially long lead in times to get up and running, landowners should consider their options without delay if they are to benefit.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Places cost £15 for CLA members and £30 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
For Further information Please Contact CLA SW Communications Manager Paul Millard on 01380 830179 or 07831674345
For Further Information on the CLA go to www.cla.org.uk
Monday, December 6, 2010
PV and Planning Events
SHINING A LIGHT ON PHOTOVOLTAICS (PV)
Wednesday 12 January 2011 - 9.00am – 1.45pm
Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 0RP
Sponsored by Rural Development Associates, Clarke Willmott, Knight Frank & Acorus Rural Property Services Ltd
COST: £15 members; £30 non-members (includes sandwich lunch)
Tuesday 18 January 2011 - 9.00am – 1.45pm
Beaulieu Hotel, Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO42 7YQ
Sponsored by Rural Development Associates
COST: £15 members; £30 non-members (includes sandwich lunch)
INTRODUCTION
The introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs) in April 2010 has created significant opportunities for landowners to benefit from the production of renewable electricity, with the sunnier South West and parts of the South East being particularly favourable for generating solar power. Solar Photovoltaics (PV) attracts the highest FIT payments and there are now unprecedented opportunities to generate power and income by installing solar panels or by leasing out land or roof space for others to do so. However, owners should consider their options soon, as FIT payments start to decline from 2012.
Experienced professional advisers will provide an overview of the solar PV technology and the options for landowners. The event will also cover the important areas of planning, financial viability and legal issues. In addition, there will be opportunities to hear from and speak directly to leading companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West (and in some parts of the South East) on which to develop ‘solar parks’. Business Link will also be in attendance to talk about grant funding.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
The event is primarily aimed at farmers and owners of land and buildings, however it is open to anyone wishing to learn more about how those with suitable land or buildings can benefit from generating electricity by Solar PV.
PLANNING TO WIN
The new coalition Government is shifting the agenda on planning with responsibility for strategic and local planning moving to new regimes. Part of the new Government’s localism agenda is to give local communities the ability to determine their own future, to move away from the idea of strict planning envelopes and development limits - but there is a risk and it is that planning issues will be decided only on their local impact rather than their strategic importance.
So how are we going to win the hearts and minds of those who will hold the decision making powers? How do you set about getting your voice heard and convincing the local community that your application is right for the area?
Shaping the future, planning the route from where we are to where we want to be and winning the argument – these are going to be the key issues within the planning debate in the future and this series of seminars will explore the PR, political and sustainability issues that are likely to help you win.
Tuesday 25 January 2011
Sponsored by Burges Salmon & Smiths Gore
State Room, Hartham Park, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 0RP
COST: £20 for members and £30 for non-members (includes sandwich lunch)
Tuesday 15 February 2011
Sponsored by Stephens Scown & Acorus Rural Property Services Ltd
The Pavilion, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 7JE
COST: £20 for members and £30 for non-members (includes sandwich lunch)
Wednesday 26th January 2011
sponsored by Burges Salmon & Smiths Gore
The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Horton Cross, Nr Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9PT
COST: £20 for members and £30 for non-members (includes sandwich lunch)
DRAFT PROGRAMME
10.15 registration & refreshments
10.45 Chairman’s introduction
10.50 Policy background – Fenella Collins, CLA Senior Planning Adviser
11.35 Ex Chief Planner (tbc)
11.55 MP
12.15 Future Lobbying – Fenella Collins
12.25 Q&A
13.00 Lunch
14.00 Agent Perspective
14.30 Legal Application
15.00 Break
15.15 Planning & PR – Paul Pounsford, Daybreak Communications
15.55 Q&A
16.15 Close
FOR INFORMATION ON ALL CLA EVENTS FOR SPRING 2011 PLEASE GO TO www.cla.org.uk or www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents where you can also book online or call 01249 700200.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings: "Widespread Icy Roads 1705 Tue 30 1000 Wed 1
With roads wet from recent melted snowfall there is the likelihood of icy stretches on untreated roads and pavements as temperatures fall below freezing this early evening, and continuing below freezing overnight. A few snow flurries will continue in places as well.
The public are advised to take extra care and refer to the Highways Agency for further advice on traffic disruption on motorways and trunk roads.
Issued at: 1538 Tue 30 Nov"
With roads wet from recent melted snowfall there is the likelihood of icy stretches on untreated roads and pavements as temperatures fall below freezing this early evening, and continuing below freezing overnight. A few snow flurries will continue in places as well.
The public are advised to take extra care and refer to the Highways Agency for further advice on traffic disruption on motorways and trunk roads.
Issued at: 1538 Tue 30 Nov"
Monday, November 29, 2010
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings
Met Office: South West England: severe weather warnings: "Snow showers this morning over southern and western parts of the Cornish mainland will give accumulations of 2 to 5 cm in places.
The public are advised to take extra care and refer to the Highways Agency for further advice on traffic disruption on motorways and trunk roads.
Issued at: 0546 Mon 29 Nov"
The public are advised to take extra care and refer to the Highways Agency for further advice on traffic disruption on motorways and trunk roads.
Issued at: 0546 Mon 29 Nov"
New broadband satellite offers hope to rural areas - Telegraph
New broadband satellite offers hope to rural areas - Telegraph
Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said that a universal 2mbps service will be available across the UK by 2015. Although fixed-line broadband is the preferred option, for the most rural 10 per cent of the country it is thought that only mobile or satellite broadband services will be economically viable in the near future.
Satellite broadband is already popular in remote areas of Scotland, where Avanti has 200,000 customers. While the service cannot match the speeds of fixed-services because of the distances involved, in many locations it represents the only available option. Increasingly, however, rural communities have found ways to persuade companies to extend broadband, either through grants or raising their own contributions. A £132 million European Union grant for Cornwall and the south-west is currently being spent on providing broadband at speeds of up to 100 mbps
Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said that a universal 2mbps service will be available across the UK by 2015. Although fixed-line broadband is the preferred option, for the most rural 10 per cent of the country it is thought that only mobile or satellite broadband services will be economically viable in the near future.
Satellite broadband is already popular in remote areas of Scotland, where Avanti has 200,000 customers. While the service cannot match the speeds of fixed-services because of the distances involved, in many locations it represents the only available option. Increasingly, however, rural communities have found ways to persuade companies to extend broadband, either through grants or raising their own contributions. A £132 million European Union grant for Cornwall and the south-west is currently being spent on providing broadband at speeds of up to 100 mbps
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
BBC News - Living costs in UK 'up to 20% higher for remote areas'
BBC News - Living costs in UK 'up to 20% higher for remote areas': "People in rural areas need to take home up to 20% more than those in urban areas in order to reach an acceptable living standard, according to a report.
The Commission for Rural Communities said someone in a remote village needed £18,600 a year to get by, compared with £14,400 for an urban dweller.
It means a villager must earn about 50% above the minimum wage of £5.93 an hour to reach a minimum living standard.
The report cited transport and fuel as the main extra cost burdens"
The Commission for Rural Communities said someone in a remote village needed £18,600 a year to get by, compared with £14,400 for an urban dweller.
It means a villager must earn about 50% above the minimum wage of £5.93 an hour to reach a minimum living standard.
The report cited transport and fuel as the main extra cost burdens"
Farming Futures faces closure as government funding is cut | Environment | guardian.co.uk
Farming Futures faces closure as government funding is cut | Environment | guardian.co.uk:
An organisation that helps farmers fight the effects of climate change faces closure because the government is to cut its funding, it has emerged.
Farming Futures has played an important role in persuading farmers and other landowners to invest in green technology such as wind turbines and solar panels.
CLA president William Worsley said it had worked hard with Farming Futures to get the message about the benefits of green technologies across.
He said: "There is a thirst for information about new technologies and new business opportunities and Farming Futures caters for this, so it is disappointing that the project's funding is set to be stopped."
"The 'greenest government ever' needs to ensure that land-based businesses are at the forefront of new technology and jobs and do everything possible to assist the land management sector to produce its own plan to reduce greenhouse gases."
An organisation that helps farmers fight the effects of climate change faces closure because the government is to cut its funding, it has emerged.
Farming Futures has played an important role in persuading farmers and other landowners to invest in green technology such as wind turbines and solar panels.
CLA president William Worsley said it had worked hard with Farming Futures to get the message about the benefits of green technologies across.
He said: "There is a thirst for information about new technologies and new business opportunities and Farming Futures caters for this, so it is disappointing that the project's funding is set to be stopped."
"The 'greenest government ever' needs to ensure that land-based businesses are at the forefront of new technology and jobs and do everything possible to assist the land management sector to produce its own plan to reduce greenhouse gases."
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Commission’s official paper on CAP reform ‘stays on track’ says CLA » Country Land & Business Association
Latest Releases » Commission’s official paper on CAP reform ‘stays on track’ says CLA » Country Land & Business Association: "The CLA said today (Thursday, 18 November 2010) that the European Commission's official paper on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) remains on broadly the right track.
The Association, which has been arguing for the protection of a fully funded CAP to provide Food and Environmental Security, said the Commission's paper has found the middle-ground between the extremes of "no change" and the drastic withdrawal of all Pillar 1 support.
CLA President William Worsley said that the "entire European Commission has now endorsed the ideas to reform the CAP", as outlined in the paper leaked last month.
Mr Worsley said: "The thrust of the paper is to rebalance support more in the direction of paying for environmental services, for which there are no markets, and securing the future of farming in the more marginal extensive grazing areas.
"Critically, the paper suggests doing this by adapting Pillar 1. The CLA believes this is the correct direction because there was no support for the alternative of shifting more funds into the co-financed Pillar 2."
The CLA President added that there are important aspects of the paper with which the CLA disagreed.
These include: payment capping, restriction of supports to a narrowly defined concept of "active farmers", reluctance to consider multi-annual payments in Pillar 1, and suggestions to allow more scope for some member states to use voluntary top-ups which could distort markets. There is also a lack of clarity about achieving more objectively defined shares of the Pillar 2 resources.
Mr Worsley added: "This paper will unleash intensive discussions about whether, and how, these ideas can be implemented practicably. The CLA aims to remain in the forefront of this debate."
The Association, which has been arguing for the protection of a fully funded CAP to provide Food and Environmental Security, said the Commission's paper has found the middle-ground between the extremes of "no change" and the drastic withdrawal of all Pillar 1 support.
CLA President William Worsley said that the "entire European Commission has now endorsed the ideas to reform the CAP", as outlined in the paper leaked last month.
Mr Worsley said: "The thrust of the paper is to rebalance support more in the direction of paying for environmental services, for which there are no markets, and securing the future of farming in the more marginal extensive grazing areas.
"Critically, the paper suggests doing this by adapting Pillar 1. The CLA believes this is the correct direction because there was no support for the alternative of shifting more funds into the co-financed Pillar 2."
The CLA President added that there are important aspects of the paper with which the CLA disagreed.
These include: payment capping, restriction of supports to a narrowly defined concept of "active farmers", reluctance to consider multi-annual payments in Pillar 1, and suggestions to allow more scope for some member states to use voluntary top-ups which could distort markets. There is also a lack of clarity about achieving more objectively defined shares of the Pillar 2 resources.
Mr Worsley added: "This paper will unleash intensive discussions about whether, and how, these ideas can be implemented practicably. The CLA aims to remain in the forefront of this debate."
Thursday, November 11, 2010
New PV Seminar
Due to the overwhelming response to our two ‘Shining a Light on Photovoltaics (PV)’ events we have decided to hold an additional seminar on Thursday 16th December 2010 at Roadford Lake Conference Centre, Roadford Lake Country Park, between Okehampton & Launceston. The programme, speakers and timings will remain the same as the event on 15th November starting with registration and refreshments at 9.00 am and the first presentation at 10.00 am. The PV providers will also attend with their exhibition stands. The event will finish with lunch at 1.45 pm and there will be plenty of opportunities for questions and to talk to the speakers and providers.
If you would like to book please either telephone the CLA South West office on 01249 700200 or email sarah.fern@cla.org.uk the fee is £15 for CLA members and £25.00 for non-members
If you would like to book please either telephone the CLA South West office on 01249 700200 or email sarah.fern@cla.org.uk the fee is £15 for CLA members and £25.00 for non-members
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Glastonbury installs UK's biggest private solar-power plant | Environment | guardian.co.uk
Glastonbury installs UK's biggest private solar-power plant | Environment | guardian.co.uk: "Farmers across the country, but especially in the south-west of England, are becoming more interested in the idea of supplementing their income through solar power."
The CLA are holding seminars and have the knowledge to help you decide if PV power generation is for you - contact us to learn more.
The CLA are holding seminars and have the knowledge to help you decide if PV power generation is for you - contact us to learn more.
Monday, November 8, 2010
EU-cash and green energy behind Cornwall LEP success : South West : Insider News : Insider Media Ltd
EU-cash and green energy behind Cornwall LEP success : South West : Insider News : Insider Media Ltd: "A focus on green energy coupled with the hope it might snare more EU investment is behind the surprise success of Cornwall-Isles of Scilly’s LEP submission.
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly’s Empowering Enterprise bid was among 24 proposals for local enterprise partnerships approved by the government yesterday along with the West of England bid which covers Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, North Somerset Council, and Bath and North East Somerset.
However, another 38 bids were rejected including five other submissions from the South West.
Bids from Devon, Plymouth and Torbay; Swindon council’s proposal with Gloucestershire and Wiltshire; South Somerset council’s tie-up with East Devon district council; and Bournemouth council’s bid with Dorset county council and related districts, will now have to go back to the drawing board."
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly’s Empowering Enterprise bid was among 24 proposals for local enterprise partnerships approved by the government yesterday along with the West of England bid which covers Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, North Somerset Council, and Bath and North East Somerset.
However, another 38 bids were rejected including five other submissions from the South West.
Bids from Devon, Plymouth and Torbay; Swindon council’s proposal with Gloucestershire and Wiltshire; South Somerset council’s tie-up with East Devon district council; and Bournemouth council’s bid with Dorset county council and related districts, will now have to go back to the drawing board."
Farming 'not recognised' by new Government enterprise groups | News | Farmers Guardian
Farming 'not recognised' by new Government enterprise groups | News | Farmers Guardian: "News that the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly bid to form an LEP was successful prompted the Country Land and Business Association, to renew its call for proper representation for the countryside on the board which will eventually run the LEP.
CLA South west Director, John Mortimer, said: “CLA members play a critical role in ensuring economic diversity and vitality across the whole of our county – and they should be properly represented in the new partnership.”"
CLA South west Director, John Mortimer, said: “CLA members play a critical role in ensuring economic diversity and vitality across the whole of our county – and they should be properly represented in the new partnership.”"
Thursday, October 28, 2010
CLA Calls for Greater Clarity on Local Enterprise Partnerships
The Country Land and Business Association in the South West is calling for more openness and greater clarity in the way bids to form Local Enterprise Partnerships are determined.
The move follows the coalition Government’s announcement that only two bids from the whole of the South West region have been successful and CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, says it is important that people know why.
LEPs, he said, were central part of the Coalition Government’s localism agenda and local authorities had been working with business groups to set up new partnerships which would drive economic and planning policies forward.
“The Communities Secretary, Eric Pickles, has said that the Government’s vision for local enterprise partnerships will help transforms the economic geography of the country – the problem, it seems, is that too few people know exactly what that vision is.”
The two proposals given the thumbs up were in Cornwall and the West Country area – which includes North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bath and Bristol – other areas failed to get through the first stage.
The CLA has welcomed the recognition given to the importance of the rural economy in the Government’s Local Growth White Paper but says that makes it essential that the needs of rural communities and the economic activity which takes place in rural areas are properly understood by - and represented on - Local Enterprise Partnerships.
“But we need greater clarity from Government in terms of their expectations for the LEPs which failed to gain approval – what do they have to change to become acceptable? The CLA in the South West has been fighting for proper representation on the boards of the LEPs and we need to know what we have to do to win that recognition,” he said.
The CLA, he said was unique in that its members owned and managed the raw materials of economic activity – land and buildings. Furthermore, their enterprise and entrepreneurial skills were at the very core of the economic well-being of rural areas. Shifting government to the localism agenda offered an opportunity to plan a more secure future for the region’s rural communities at a local level– but he warned that this would require a successful and sustainable rural economy allied with a flexible, integrated and sustainable planning system with policies which all pulled in the same direction.
“CLA members manage land for food production and forestry, generate jobs, create business opportunities, provide investment and housing for local people and are responsible for the environment and the landscape which is such an integral part of our tourist industry. In short, CLA members play a critical role in ensuring economic diversity and vitality across the whole of our region – and they should be properly represented in the new partnerships.
“All of this demands the in-depth understanding of the balance between economic drivers and environmental sustainability which only the CLA can bring to the table. I am concerned that this opportunity is not allowed to slip by and that the CLA is offered an opportunity to contribute to the partnership which will drive the future of economic enterprise forward,” he said.
The move follows the coalition Government’s announcement that only two bids from the whole of the South West region have been successful and CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, says it is important that people know why.
LEPs, he said, were central part of the Coalition Government’s localism agenda and local authorities had been working with business groups to set up new partnerships which would drive economic and planning policies forward.
“The Communities Secretary, Eric Pickles, has said that the Government’s vision for local enterprise partnerships will help transforms the economic geography of the country – the problem, it seems, is that too few people know exactly what that vision is.”
The two proposals given the thumbs up were in Cornwall and the West Country area – which includes North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bath and Bristol – other areas failed to get through the first stage.
The CLA has welcomed the recognition given to the importance of the rural economy in the Government’s Local Growth White Paper but says that makes it essential that the needs of rural communities and the economic activity which takes place in rural areas are properly understood by - and represented on - Local Enterprise Partnerships.
“But we need greater clarity from Government in terms of their expectations for the LEPs which failed to gain approval – what do they have to change to become acceptable? The CLA in the South West has been fighting for proper representation on the boards of the LEPs and we need to know what we have to do to win that recognition,” he said.
The CLA, he said was unique in that its members owned and managed the raw materials of economic activity – land and buildings. Furthermore, their enterprise and entrepreneurial skills were at the very core of the economic well-being of rural areas. Shifting government to the localism agenda offered an opportunity to plan a more secure future for the region’s rural communities at a local level– but he warned that this would require a successful and sustainable rural economy allied with a flexible, integrated and sustainable planning system with policies which all pulled in the same direction.
“CLA members manage land for food production and forestry, generate jobs, create business opportunities, provide investment and housing for local people and are responsible for the environment and the landscape which is such an integral part of our tourist industry. In short, CLA members play a critical role in ensuring economic diversity and vitality across the whole of our region – and they should be properly represented in the new partnerships.
“All of this demands the in-depth understanding of the balance between economic drivers and environmental sustainability which only the CLA can bring to the table. I am concerned that this opportunity is not allowed to slip by and that the CLA is offered an opportunity to contribute to the partnership which will drive the future of economic enterprise forward,” he said.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Fire Risk from Chinese Lanterns
With Halloween and Bonfire Night approaching, the CLA in the South West is asking people to think again before they include sky lanterns as part of their celebrations.
The Association believes that the risk of fire to land and property, and threat to people, livestock and pets simply cannot justify the continued use of what many people are now coming to appreciate is a real threat.
CLA South west Director, John Mortimer, said: “Manufacturers and importers defend their products as an “environmentally friendly” way for people to enjoy themselves, but it is patently obvious that they are actually a potentially lethal fire risk.”
As well as the obvious fire risk, the wire frames used in many of the lanterns have caused injury and proved fatal to livestock. Other countries – apparently including parts of China – have seen fit to ban their use as the list of problems grows ever longer.
“Although there are safety instructions on many packs, the responsibility remains firmly with the person who releases the naked flame - and they have no control over where it lands. I would urge anyone considering using sky lanterns to think again and ask themselves if they would set one off towards their own home.”
Even in open countryside, said Mr Mortimer, there were barns, houses, farmyards, and woodland where people and animals could be put at risk. There was also, he said, a considerable risk to stores of dry crops such as hay and straw.
“It cannot be right that one group of people’s so-called celebrations can cause, at best, anxiety and, at worst, real damage, to others.”
The Association believes that the risk of fire to land and property, and threat to people, livestock and pets simply cannot justify the continued use of what many people are now coming to appreciate is a real threat.
CLA South west Director, John Mortimer, said: “Manufacturers and importers defend their products as an “environmentally friendly” way for people to enjoy themselves, but it is patently obvious that they are actually a potentially lethal fire risk.”
As well as the obvious fire risk, the wire frames used in many of the lanterns have caused injury and proved fatal to livestock. Other countries – apparently including parts of China – have seen fit to ban their use as the list of problems grows ever longer.
“Although there are safety instructions on many packs, the responsibility remains firmly with the person who releases the naked flame - and they have no control over where it lands. I would urge anyone considering using sky lanterns to think again and ask themselves if they would set one off towards their own home.”
Even in open countryside, said Mr Mortimer, there were barns, houses, farmyards, and woodland where people and animals could be put at risk. There was also, he said, a considerable risk to stores of dry crops such as hay and straw.
“It cannot be right that one group of people’s so-called celebrations can cause, at best, anxiety and, at worst, real damage, to others.”
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Devon Farmers Learn About a Troublesome Teenager
Farm and land managers in Devon were given some instruction on handling a troublesome teenager yesterday evening – a teenager who will have a huge impact on all of their lives.
The teenager in question is the Common Agricultural Policy and the behavioural expert handing out the advice was Prof. Allan Buckwell. Director of Policy at the CLA, the Country Land and Business Association.
“Parents always argue about how to handle difficult quarrelsome teenagers and this one is no different - there are some heated discussions brewing up over the reforms which will take the CAP into its teen years from 2013 to 2020. ”
Speaking to the Devon Farm Management Association, Prof Buckwell, compared the CAP to the stages of a child’s development with the years between 1968 and 1992 representing the infancy and pre-school CAP when there were strong markets and prices and support was based on geographical borders. The CAP went to primary school between 1992 and 2000 when it developed into compensatory, direct payments, and during its early secondary school years it had to discover how to juggle with two hands – representing the two pillar, decoupled CAP. It also had to learn about the importance of market failures.
“Next we enter the teens – and that shouldn’t hold any surprises, we know that maturity is still some way off and that the clash of hormones is inevitable and, as with all teenagers, choices over its future direction will have to be made” he said.
Food security was, he said, a real challenge and one of the choices to be made was whether we supported food production or the environment or whether support should be targeted at both.
“The inescapable fact is that agricultural productivity has to rise and that will require knowledge intensive, precision land management. A strong common policy is essential and it must have funding resources to match the expectation placed upon it,” he said.
The teenager in question is the Common Agricultural Policy and the behavioural expert handing out the advice was Prof. Allan Buckwell. Director of Policy at the CLA, the Country Land and Business Association.
“Parents always argue about how to handle difficult quarrelsome teenagers and this one is no different - there are some heated discussions brewing up over the reforms which will take the CAP into its teen years from 2013 to 2020. ”
Speaking to the Devon Farm Management Association, Prof Buckwell, compared the CAP to the stages of a child’s development with the years between 1968 and 1992 representing the infancy and pre-school CAP when there were strong markets and prices and support was based on geographical borders. The CAP went to primary school between 1992 and 2000 when it developed into compensatory, direct payments, and during its early secondary school years it had to discover how to juggle with two hands – representing the two pillar, decoupled CAP. It also had to learn about the importance of market failures.
“Next we enter the teens – and that shouldn’t hold any surprises, we know that maturity is still some way off and that the clash of hormones is inevitable and, as with all teenagers, choices over its future direction will have to be made” he said.
Food security was, he said, a real challenge and one of the choices to be made was whether we supported food production or the environment or whether support should be targeted at both.
“The inescapable fact is that agricultural productivity has to rise and that will require knowledge intensive, precision land management. A strong common policy is essential and it must have funding resources to match the expectation placed upon it,” he said.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Red Tape Review Deadline Looming
The CLA is reminding farmers across the South West that the deadline for submissions to Defra’s Review of Farm Regulation - which is looking at ways of reducing red tape in the agricultural industry - is this coming Sunday, October 31.
The Task Force on Farming Regulation is reviewing regulation affecting farmers, growers and food processors, and is asking for views on red tape, and suggestions for better ways to do things.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: “Red tape is a constant source of complaint from our members, and while the CLA has submitted a particularly robust response to this consultation, it is important that everyone takes this opportunity to contribute. Government repeated its intention to look at this seriously in the Comprehensive Spending Review last week.”
The review team is looking for regulations that go beyond what is required or which are too complex whether form filling, record keeping or inspections. They want to find out how businesses are affected and how the regulations should be changed.
“Your list can be long or short, but your comments should specify what the regulation is, who applies it, and what your suggested solution would be. If there are regulations you think are unnecessary and which could be removed without lowering standards for business, the public or the environment this is the chance to change things,” said Mr Mortimer.
Defra says that all comments and suggestions received by 31 October 2010 will be considered and fed into the review. The results will be made available early in 2011.
As well as responding to the consultation online at http://engage.defra.gov.uk/farm-regulation/ people can contribute by writing to:
Task Force on Farming Regulation, Area 8D Millbank' Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Notes for editors:
The Review of Farm Regulation is looking for comments in the following areas:
* Farm animals
* Growing and crops
* Food processing
* Business & management
* Environment & land management
For further information see http://engage.defra.gov.uk/farm-regulation/
The Task Force on Farming Regulation is reviewing regulation affecting farmers, growers and food processors, and is asking for views on red tape, and suggestions for better ways to do things.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: “Red tape is a constant source of complaint from our members, and while the CLA has submitted a particularly robust response to this consultation, it is important that everyone takes this opportunity to contribute. Government repeated its intention to look at this seriously in the Comprehensive Spending Review last week.”
The review team is looking for regulations that go beyond what is required or which are too complex whether form filling, record keeping or inspections. They want to find out how businesses are affected and how the regulations should be changed.
“Your list can be long or short, but your comments should specify what the regulation is, who applies it, and what your suggested solution would be. If there are regulations you think are unnecessary and which could be removed without lowering standards for business, the public or the environment this is the chance to change things,” said Mr Mortimer.
Defra says that all comments and suggestions received by 31 October 2010 will be considered and fed into the review. The results will be made available early in 2011.
As well as responding to the consultation online at http://engage.defra.gov.uk/farm-regulation/ people can contribute by writing to:
Task Force on Farming Regulation, Area 8D Millbank' Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Notes for editors:
The Review of Farm Regulation is looking for comments in the following areas:
* Farm animals
* Growing and crops
* Food processing
* Business & management
* Environment & land management
For further information see http://engage.defra.gov.uk/farm-regulation/
CLA Takes a Look on the Bright Side
South West landowners are being offered the chance to look on the bright side of life – at a seminar which will explore the opportunities and pitfalls of generating power from the sun.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The event, which is being organised by the CLA, is being held at Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, on November 15 and brings together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues. In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to leading companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south west. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 so landowners should consider their options soon.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Shining a Light on Photovoltaics takes place on Monday 15 November from 9.00 am – 1.45 pm at Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, Cornwall and places cost £15 for CLA members and £25 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
CLA South West Rural Surveyor, Graham Clark, says the technology for generating electricity from ‘photovoltaic’ solar panels has been around for some years – but, until now, with relatively modest uptake in the UK.
“What’s changed is the introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs earlier this year. These provide guaranteed payments for every unit of renewable power produced over a 25 year period and have significantly improved the economics of solar PV,” said Mr Clark.
The event, which is being organised by the CLA, is being held at Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, on November 15 and brings together professional advisers who will discuss the solar PV technology and the options for landowners plus planning, financial and legal issues. In addition, there will be opportunities for delegates to hear from and speak directly to leading companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop ‘solar parks’
More sunlight, says Mr Clark, means more power generation – therefore solar PV is a more viable option in the sunnier south west. PV also attracts higher Feed in Tariffs than the other renewable technologies - however, he warned that ‘joining rates’ start to fall in 2012 so landowners should consider their options soon.
The seminar will help people assess the most suitable option for their land or buildings, whether they should develop the project themselves and benefit directly from the power generated and from the tariff or whether they should lease land out to a solar developer.
“We will be discussing all the issues including getting planning permission and a grid connection - both significant hurdles to be cleared, but, depending on the circumstances, a solar PV project can not only reduce the exposure of a business to likely future rises in electricity prices but also become a profitable enterprise in its own right.”
Shining a Light on Photovoltaics takes place on Monday 15 November from 9.00 am – 1.45 pm at Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, Cornwall and places cost £15 for CLA members and £25 non-CLA members. Details are available from the CLA on 01249 700200.
Housing developers to pay ‘conservation tax’ | The Times
Housing developers to pay ‘conservation tax’ | The Times:
Developers could be made to pay for new conservation areas under government plans to attach a financial value to the wildlife found on every piece of land converted for housing, industry or roads.
The system of “conservation credits” would generate tens of millions of pounds each year to finance the creation of new wetlands, woodlands and habitats for endangered species.
In an interview with The Times, Richard Benyon, the Environment Minister, said that the credit system would result in overall gains for wildlife, with landowners and developers required to create more “natural capital” than they destroyed.
A landowner seeking planning permission for a housing estate would have to obtain an independent assessment of the damage to nature and then purchase the appropriate number of credits before the development began.
The money would be given to wildlife trusts and conservation groups that have identified areas suitable for restoration. The system, which will be presented in a Natural Environment White Paper in the spring, will allow one type of habitat to be replaced with another as long as it is worth the same number of credits.
....
The Country Land and Business Association, whose members control or manage more than half the rural land in England and Wales, said that developers already compensated communities through planning obligatons to provide amenities."
Developers could be made to pay for new conservation areas under government plans to attach a financial value to the wildlife found on every piece of land converted for housing, industry or roads.
The system of “conservation credits” would generate tens of millions of pounds each year to finance the creation of new wetlands, woodlands and habitats for endangered species.
In an interview with The Times, Richard Benyon, the Environment Minister, said that the credit system would result in overall gains for wildlife, with landowners and developers required to create more “natural capital” than they destroyed.
A landowner seeking planning permission for a housing estate would have to obtain an independent assessment of the damage to nature and then purchase the appropriate number of credits before the development began.
The money would be given to wildlife trusts and conservation groups that have identified areas suitable for restoration. The system, which will be presented in a Natural Environment White Paper in the spring, will allow one type of habitat to be replaced with another as long as it is worth the same number of credits.
....
The Country Land and Business Association, whose members control or manage more than half the rural land in England and Wales, said that developers already compensated communities through planning obligatons to provide amenities."
Friday, October 22, 2010
Weather Widget now on the Blog
We hope the Met Office weather forecast box in the sidebar is useful, if not always a bearer of welcome news.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
CSR settlements show some good sense but ‘devil in detail’, says CLA
The Comprehensive Spending Review settlements by Defra, DECC and DCLG display "some good sense", but the full impact of the cuts is still unclear, the CLA said today (20 October).
The CLA said it was "pleased" Defra said it is reprioritising its spending to focus on food and environment, something the Association had been calling for since 2007.
On environmental stewardship, CLA President William Worsley said he was "delighted that the contribution to biodiversity of land owners and managers has been recognised by Defra maintaining its commitment to environmental stewardship. However, we are worried by the implication that the eligibility criteria may be restricted."
On the surprise 80 percent increase in Higher Level Stewardship (HLS), the CLA said this means that HLS is now by far the main source of funding for privately owned heritage, another reason why it is good news.
On flood defence, the CLA President said it was "welcome" that extra funding has been found for flood and coastal defences, but said it would not be enough.
Mr Worsley said: "The Government must still work to make it easier for land owners and managers to maintain their own flood defences without having to work through the excessive regulation which currently places a heavy burden on the process."
On rural broadband, Mr Worsley said the CLA had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll out superfast broadband to rural areas.
Mr Worsley said the CLA had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll out superfast broadband to rural areas.
He said: "Broadband is the key to unlocking the potential of the rural economy. With savings of some £1 billion a year expected through greater online Government services, it is critical that everyone has access to an adequate broadband service. We look forward to hearing more about the detailed allocation of funds and how these will be implemented."
On animal disease, he said: "It is good news that Defra still intends to involve the industry in handling outbreaks of animal disease. In the light of yesterday's National Audit Office (NAO) report on the state of accounts, nobody should underestimate the size of the task of moving to full cost and responsibility sharing."
On the Renewable Heat Incentive, the CLA said it was "good news" that £860 million of funding for the RHI will be introduced from 2011-12.
Mr Worsley said: "The proposals for a Renewable Heat Incentive are really good news for commercial and domestic producers and consumers. Heat accounts for half of UK carbon emissions, and saving carbon through renewable heat is far cheaper than through the generation of renewable electricity."
The CLA said it was "pleased" Defra said it is reprioritising its spending to focus on food and environment, something the Association had been calling for since 2007.
On environmental stewardship, CLA President William Worsley said he was "delighted that the contribution to biodiversity of land owners and managers has been recognised by Defra maintaining its commitment to environmental stewardship. However, we are worried by the implication that the eligibility criteria may be restricted."
On the surprise 80 percent increase in Higher Level Stewardship (HLS), the CLA said this means that HLS is now by far the main source of funding for privately owned heritage, another reason why it is good news.
On flood defence, the CLA President said it was "welcome" that extra funding has been found for flood and coastal defences, but said it would not be enough.
Mr Worsley said: "The Government must still work to make it easier for land owners and managers to maintain their own flood defences without having to work through the excessive regulation which currently places a heavy burden on the process."
On rural broadband, Mr Worsley said the CLA had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll out superfast broadband to rural areas.
Mr Worsley said the CLA had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll out superfast broadband to rural areas.
He said: "Broadband is the key to unlocking the potential of the rural economy. With savings of some £1 billion a year expected through greater online Government services, it is critical that everyone has access to an adequate broadband service. We look forward to hearing more about the detailed allocation of funds and how these will be implemented."
On animal disease, he said: "It is good news that Defra still intends to involve the industry in handling outbreaks of animal disease. In the light of yesterday's National Audit Office (NAO) report on the state of accounts, nobody should underestimate the size of the task of moving to full cost and responsibility sharing."
On the Renewable Heat Incentive, the CLA said it was "good news" that £860 million of funding for the RHI will be introduced from 2011-12.
Mr Worsley said: "The proposals for a Renewable Heat Incentive are really good news for commercial and domestic producers and consumers. Heat accounts for half of UK carbon emissions, and saving carbon through renewable heat is far cheaper than through the generation of renewable electricity."
The South West Uplands Seminar: Future of our Farmed Uplands?
The closing date for registration is Friday October 22 and the costs is £5 for those with a holding number or £20 for those without. Further details and registration information is available from
Marilyn Stephen, Centre for Rural Policy Research
Tel. 01392 722438. Email: m.a.stephen@ex.ac.uk
The Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR) together with the South West Uplands Federation (SWUF), and with the active support of Devon County Council, the NFU, RSPB, Natural England, other agencies and NGOs is extending an invitation for people to participate in a one day seminar on the distinctiveness and future of the South West's farmed uplands.
The South West Uplands Federation and the Centre for Rural Policy Research (University of Exeter) are convening this one day seminar to take forward the CRC's upland inquiry and present new research findings on farming in the southern uplands. It will be an opportunity to celebrate the distinctiveness of the region's uplands and to explore the opportunities to reward farmers for delivering the 'seven wonders of the
south west uplands'.
SWUF and the CRPR wish the seminar to be an upbeat event celebrating the region's distinctive uplands and working towards a positive future, whilst at the same time recognising there are issues that need to be addressed by government and by organisations and businesses in the uplands.
We would like to invite you to attend the seminar and join in the discussions. We are conscious that the date is quite soon after the Spending Review bt we have invited Jim Paice to come to update us on the effect of that on hill farming and the public assets which it sustains.
Other speakers will cover the distinctiveness of the SW uplands, the CRC's upland inquiry and new research findings on farming in the southern uplands. There will also be statements from farmers from each of the three uplands of the SW. There will be ample opportunity for discussion and celebration of the distinctiveness of upland farming in the south west.
The event will be held on October 29th at Westpoint, the County Agricultural Association's showground, just outside of Exeter.
Marilyn Stephen, Centre for Rural Policy Research
Tel. 01392 722438. Email: m.a.stephen@ex.ac.uk
The Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR) together with the South West Uplands Federation (SWUF), and with the active support of Devon County Council, the NFU, RSPB, Natural England, other agencies and NGOs is extending an invitation for people to participate in a one day seminar on the distinctiveness and future of the South West's farmed uplands.
The South West Uplands Federation and the Centre for Rural Policy Research (University of Exeter) are convening this one day seminar to take forward the CRC's upland inquiry and present new research findings on farming in the southern uplands. It will be an opportunity to celebrate the distinctiveness of the region's uplands and to explore the opportunities to reward farmers for delivering the 'seven wonders of the
south west uplands'.
SWUF and the CRPR wish the seminar to be an upbeat event celebrating the region's distinctive uplands and working towards a positive future, whilst at the same time recognising there are issues that need to be addressed by government and by organisations and businesses in the uplands.
We would like to invite you to attend the seminar and join in the discussions. We are conscious that the date is quite soon after the Spending Review bt we have invited Jim Paice to come to update us on the effect of that on hill farming and the public assets which it sustains.
Other speakers will cover the distinctiveness of the SW uplands, the CRC's upland inquiry and new research findings on farming in the southern uplands. There will also be statements from farmers from each of the three uplands of the SW. There will be ample opportunity for discussion and celebration of the distinctiveness of upland farming in the south west.
The event will be held on October 29th at Westpoint, the County Agricultural Association's showground, just outside of Exeter.
CLA broadband victory in Comprehensive Spending Review
The CLA today (20 October) celebrated victory for its rural broadband campaign as the Government announced £530 million of funding to roll-out a superfast broadband network to rural areas.
The Association, the first to recognise the importance of broadband to sustain the future of rural businesses and communities, had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll-out superfast broadband in the countryside.
CLA President William Worsley said: "Broadband is the key to unlocking the potential of the rural economy.
"With savings of some £1 billion a year expected through greater online Government services, it is critical that everyone has access to an adequate broadband service. We look forward to hearing more about the detailed allocation of funds and how these will be implemented."
Mr Worsley added: "The CLA suggests a series of community broadband grants made available at parish level. With the right funding in place, a proper infrastructure can be provided by the communities themselves by putting the Government's localism agenda into practice."
The Association, the first to recognise the importance of broadband to sustain the future of rural businesses and communities, had argued for many years that a significant amount of public sector money should be provided to roll-out superfast broadband in the countryside.
CLA President William Worsley said: "Broadband is the key to unlocking the potential of the rural economy.
"With savings of some £1 billion a year expected through greater online Government services, it is critical that everyone has access to an adequate broadband service. We look forward to hearing more about the detailed allocation of funds and how these will be implemented."
Mr Worsley added: "The CLA suggests a series of community broadband grants made available at parish level. With the right funding in place, a proper infrastructure can be provided by the communities themselves by putting the Government's localism agenda into practice."
CLA relieved at Government offer of renewable heat support
The CLA today (20 October) expressed relief over the Government's offer of support for renewable heat by honouring the commitment for the Renewable Heat Incentive.
The Association said the Government's plan to introduce a Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), as announced in the Comprehensive Spending Review, is welcomed by businesses and individuals who are able to generate heat from clean green sources, such as solar thermal panels and ground source heat pumps.
CLA President William Worsley said: "The proposals for a Renewable Heat Incentive as set out in the Comprehensive Spending Review are really good news for commercial and domestic producers and consumers. Heat accounts for half of UK carbon emissions, and saving carbon through renewable heat is far cheaper than through the generation of renewable electricity."
Mr Worsley added the incentive would also provide other environmental benefits. He said: "The RHI will transform the woodfuel market, resulting in better management for Britain's woodlands and helping to create and manage wildlife effectively."
The Association said the Government's plan to introduce a Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), as announced in the Comprehensive Spending Review, is welcomed by businesses and individuals who are able to generate heat from clean green sources, such as solar thermal panels and ground source heat pumps.
CLA President William Worsley said: "The proposals for a Renewable Heat Incentive as set out in the Comprehensive Spending Review are really good news for commercial and domestic producers and consumers. Heat accounts for half of UK carbon emissions, and saving carbon through renewable heat is far cheaper than through the generation of renewable electricity."
Mr Worsley added the incentive would also provide other environmental benefits. He said: "The RHI will transform the woodfuel market, resulting in better management for Britain's woodlands and helping to create and manage wildlife effectively."
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Cornwall Event to Learn About PV Opportunities
SHINING A LIGHT ON PHOTOVOLTAICS (PV)
9.00 am – 1.45 pm Monday 15th November 2010
Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, Cornwall PL30 5AQ
Sponsored by Rural Development Associates, Stratton & Holborow, Foot Anstey Solicitors
INTRODUCTION
The introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs) in April 2010 has created significant opportunities for landowners to benefit from the production of renewable electricity, with the sunnier South West being particularly favourable for generating solar power. Solar Photovoltaics (PV) attracts the highest FIT payments and there are now unprecedented opportunities to generate power and income by installing solar panels or by leasing out land or roof space for others to do so. However, owners should consider their options soon, as FIT payments start to decline from 2012.
Experienced professional advisers will provide an overview of the solar PV technology and the options for landowners. The event will also cover the important areas of planning, financial viability and legal issues. In addition, there will be opportunities to hear from and speak directly to leading companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop 'solar parks'.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
The event is primarily aimed at farmers and owners of land and buildings, however it is open to anyone wishing to learn more about how those with suitable land or buildings can benefit from generating electricity by Solar PV.
09.00 Registration & refreshments
09.30 John Willis (CLA Cornwall Chairman & Landowner) - Chairman's introduction
09.35 Technical Introduction - Ray Noble (The Renewable Energy Assocation Solar PV specialist) Basic principles: insolation/shade; roof or ground mounted; stand alone vs grid connected systems; description of equipment – panels; inverters; fixings etc; size/kw output of panels and scale issues.
09.55 Q&A
10.05 James Humphreys (Surveyor, Stratton & Holborow)) – Options for the Landowner - Basics of Feed in Tariffs; suitable land/buildings; 'DIY' (landowner owned) or lease out roof/land; rents achievable.
10.25 Tim German (Head of Low Carbon Green Cornwall Programme Environment Planning & Economy Cornwall Council) – Renewables in Cornwall; PV in context.
10. 45 Adrian Lea (Manager, Natural Resources Planning, Cornwall Council) – Planning for Renewable Energy in Cornwall; Planning Policy and advice to potential applicants.
11.05 Q & A
11.15 Refreshment break
11.45 James Miles-Hobbs (Consultant, Rural Development Associates) – Project Viability – Costings; income; payback period; viability; grid connection issues.
12.05 Simon Gregory (Foot Anstey Solicitors)
Legal Issues - Lease agreements; Heads of Terms; protecting your interests.
12.25 Q&A
12.35 Andrew Williams (Landowner, Lanhydrock Estate) – The Landowner & developer's perspective – Practical comments from a landowner involved in a solar development.
12.55 Comments from supplier/developer companies – Sunstroom, INRG Solar, Green Company, Capture Energy, Horizon Renewables and Plug Into the Sun, Nova Energy UK Ltd
13.25 Q&A to suppliers/developers
13.40 Chairman's summary
13.45 Lunch – followed by opportunities for delegates to view supplier/developer displays & talk to them on one to one basis
COSTS
The event costs just £15 for members and £25 for non-members and includes refreshments and sandwich lunch.
Click here to book
9.00 am – 1.45 pm Monday 15th November 2010
Lanhydrock Golf Club, Bodmin, Cornwall PL30 5AQ
Sponsored by Rural Development Associates, Stratton & Holborow, Foot Anstey Solicitors
INTRODUCTION
The introduction of Feed-in-Tariffs (FITs) in April 2010 has created significant opportunities for landowners to benefit from the production of renewable electricity, with the sunnier South West being particularly favourable for generating solar power. Solar Photovoltaics (PV) attracts the highest FIT payments and there are now unprecedented opportunities to generate power and income by installing solar panels or by leasing out land or roof space for others to do so. However, owners should consider their options soon, as FIT payments start to decline from 2012.
Experienced professional advisers will provide an overview of the solar PV technology and the options for landowners. The event will also cover the important areas of planning, financial viability and legal issues. In addition, there will be opportunities to hear from and speak directly to leading companies who provide solar panels and others who are looking for land in the South West on which to develop 'solar parks'.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
The event is primarily aimed at farmers and owners of land and buildings, however it is open to anyone wishing to learn more about how those with suitable land or buildings can benefit from generating electricity by Solar PV.
09.00 Registration & refreshments
09.30 John Willis (CLA Cornwall Chairman & Landowner) - Chairman's introduction
09.35 Technical Introduction - Ray Noble (The Renewable Energy Assocation Solar PV specialist) Basic principles: insolation/shade; roof or ground mounted; stand alone vs grid connected systems; description of equipment – panels; inverters; fixings etc; size/kw output of panels and scale issues.
09.55 Q&A
10.05 James Humphreys (Surveyor, Stratton & Holborow)) – Options for the Landowner - Basics of Feed in Tariffs; suitable land/buildings; 'DIY' (landowner owned) or lease out roof/land; rents achievable.
10.25 Tim German (Head of Low Carbon Green Cornwall Programme Environment Planning & Economy Cornwall Council) – Renewables in Cornwall; PV in context.
10. 45 Adrian Lea (Manager, Natural Resources Planning, Cornwall Council) – Planning for Renewable Energy in Cornwall; Planning Policy and advice to potential applicants.
11.05 Q & A
11.15 Refreshment break
11.45 James Miles-Hobbs (Consultant, Rural Development Associates) – Project Viability – Costings; income; payback period; viability; grid connection issues.
12.05 Simon Gregory (Foot Anstey Solicitors)
Legal Issues - Lease agreements; Heads of Terms; protecting your interests.
12.25 Q&A
12.35 Andrew Williams (Landowner, Lanhydrock Estate) – The Landowner & developer's perspective – Practical comments from a landowner involved in a solar development.
12.55 Comments from supplier/developer companies – Sunstroom, INRG Solar, Green Company, Capture Energy, Horizon Renewables and Plug Into the Sun, Nova Energy UK Ltd
13.25 Q&A to suppliers/developers
13.40 Chairman's summary
13.45 Lunch – followed by opportunities for delegates to view supplier/developer displays & talk to them on one to one basis
COSTS
The event costs just £15 for members and £25 for non-members and includes refreshments and sandwich lunch.
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Monday, October 18, 2010
CLA 'relieved' at axing of Severn Barrage plan
CLA 'relieved' at axing of Severn Barrage plan:
"The CLA today (18 October) welcomed the announcement that the large-scale tidal barrier proposed for the River Severn has been cut by the Government."
CLA Deputy President Harry Cotterell said: "It is a relief. There were huge unresolved problems with the barrage plan, not least the need it would have created to flood many thousands of hectares of good coastal land to provide the compensatory habitat required under European Union law. We were concerned this might have required valleys in other parts of the country to be submerged."
"We were also worried about the proposed scheme's impact on migratory salmon."
Mr Cotterell added: "The CLA advised against going ahead with the Severn Barrage and other schemes involving large-scale barrage. We said that they should look more closely at less harmful options such as underwater turbines or smaller tidal lagoons."
"The CLA today (18 October) welcomed the announcement that the large-scale tidal barrier proposed for the River Severn has been cut by the Government."
CLA Deputy President Harry Cotterell said: "It is a relief. There were huge unresolved problems with the barrage plan, not least the need it would have created to flood many thousands of hectares of good coastal land to provide the compensatory habitat required under European Union law. We were concerned this might have required valleys in other parts of the country to be submerged."
"We were also worried about the proposed scheme's impact on migratory salmon."
Mr Cotterell added: "The CLA advised against going ahead with the Severn Barrage and other schemes involving large-scale barrage. We said that they should look more closely at less harmful options such as underwater turbines or smaller tidal lagoons."
South West CLA Business Member Directory
Member businesses located in the 'South West' region. - Country Land & Business Association
A searchable directory of our business members.
A searchable directory of our business members.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Rural Businesses Should Not Bear the Burden of Wildlife Funding
News Release
October 13 2010
Rural Businesses Should Not Bear the Burden of Wildlife Funding
Landowners in the South West have sounded a note of caution about RSPB proposals for new taxes to protect the environment.
The Association said that the plans, outlined in a report entitled 'Financing Nature in an Age of Austerity', could put even greater pressure on rural businesses at an already tough time.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: “The report rightly recognises that there is not enough funding for the level of conservation work desired by the environmental lobby. However taxing farmers and land managers or putting a levy on new homes in the countryside –as the report suggests - is not the answer.
Conservation and wildlife management, he said, had an economic cost – and he warned that if rural businesses were prevented from evolving to meet the changing demands of the marketplace, they could not continue to bear the costs and, consequently, delivery would decline. Massive cuts to public spending also meant it was essential for the Government to ensure that farmers and land managers were on board at a local level.
“Farmers and land managers already deliver a huge amount of conservation work and without their input England's wildlife network will suffer because there will be nobody to look after or pay for it. But they can only continue to provide this service if their businesses remain economically viable.”
Mr. Mortimer said that the economy of the countryside depended on a range of rural businesses and that they could ill afford additional financial burdens. The planning system, he said, was already too expensive without Government adding to its costs.”
“It’s all very well saying that we have to nurture the environment, and no one would argue with that, but at the moment we need to nurture those businesses who can actually deliver the environment, habitat and landscape without affecting their priority job which is feeding us all,” he said.
Coastal Path Plan Condemned As a Waste of Money
News Release
October 15 2010
Coastal Path Plan Condemned As a Waste of Money
Plans to start the roll out the All-England coastal path on the South West coast are an unnecessary waste of public money according to the CLA, the Country Land and Business Association.
Natural England is planning to boost access along the coastal path beside Weymouth Bay in time for the 2012 Olympics and to follow that with five new 20-mile stretches around the coast – including one between Minehead and Stert Point in Somerset.
The plan, being brought forward under the Marine and Coastal Access Act, has been condemned by the CLA as a complete waste of money because so much of the coast is already accessible.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: “It is extraordinary that the Natural England should be showcasing the introduction of new coastal access in Weymouth Bay when the area is already extremely well served by the acclaimed South West Coast Path and by an extensive complex of permissive and voluntary access arrangements - so there is no real need to provide additional access. Public money will be used to pay for what largely already exists.”
The CLA says that Natural England’s own figures state that more than four-fifths of the coast is already accessible to the public. Of the remainder, only half could be accessed because the rest is occupied by ports, harbours, military bases or sites of crucial conservation interest.
“At a time when the Government is trying to cut public expenditure in other, far more critical, areas it is surely irrational to spend millions of pounds replicating access that already exists.
"If the Government wants to spend money on the coast, then it would be better spent on improving the facilities already on the established coastal paths such as maintenance, signs, toilets and car parks,” said Mr Mortimer.
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