Monday, December 11, 2017

Meet the Advisers - Rural Policy Update

Thursday 19 April 2018: 6pm hot fork supper & drinks. Policy Update 7pm – 9pm
The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 6LQ
Price: £FOC

With less than a year to go before the UK leaves the EU, this April event will bring members right up-to-date with where Brexit negotiations stand with regard to agriculture and the rural economy – and will take a glimpse at the likely shape of future domestic UK policy for agriculture, food and the environment.  By then we expect to have seen the publication of the new Agriculture Bill, a White Paper setting out the government’s 25 Year Environmental Plan and the start of discussions on the future of trade with the EU.

Everything may not have changed – but almost certainly, nothing will be the same.  The facts and the policy thinking will have moved on.

Members will hear from two of the CLA’s leading Policy Advisers, Charles Trotman - Senior Rural Business and Economics Adviser, and Susan Twining - Chief Land Use Policy Adviser, and from Bridgwater & West Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger.  Ian is currently a member of the House of Commons Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy Select Committee and a previous member of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee.

Together, they will address the critical issues of:
Trade
Labour
Rural Development
Regulation
Future of Agricultural Policy.

There will be the opportunity for members to raise other issues they feel are of extreme concern to landowners and rural businesses during the Brexit transition.

The meeting will begin with a hot fork supper and drinks with presentations, questions and discussion to follow.


Tax Planning & Asset Preservation

Thursday 12 April 2018: 9.15am – 3.30pm
Bowood House, Derry Hill, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0LZ
Prices: £45 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC), non-members £55; students and YFC members £5
Supported by: Quilter Cheviot, Old Mutual Wealth and Hazlewoods

Our annual finance seminar will be held at the magnificent Bowood House, home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne.

In this seminar we will examine the threats and opportunities – too often assets are lost through lack of appropriate action or inertia. Our team of experts will look at opportunities to minimise tax liability, at the global investment market, inheritance and succession issues and at foreign exchange risk management. After the seminar we will have a two course lunch followed by a tour of the house and gardens.

This seminar will cover:
The latest ideas on minimising inheritance tax
Planning for succession – what to consider
Agricultural and Property Reliefs – an update
Tax efficient trading structures
Effective management of pensions and investments
Foreign exchange risk management
Investing in fine art

Speakers will be:
Quilter Cheviot
Old Mutual Wealth
Lawyer
Nicholas Smail, Hazlewoods
Will Richards, Dreweatts & Bloomsbury Auctions
Russell Gous & Alistair Hutson, CLA Foreign Exchange (World First)

Bowood House, sits within 100 acres of beautifully landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland and has been home to the Lansdowne family since the 1st Earl of Shelburne purchased it in 1754.

The 9th Marquis, then Lord Shelburne, took over management of Bowood in 1972. He opened the house and grounds to the public in 1975. Today over half of the house is open to visitors, with the family living in the remainder. We will visit the Orangery, chapel, laboratory, library, sculpture gallery and exhibition room where there will be an exhibition with memorabilia commemorating 1918 – 2018. Bowood’s Estate Manager will also be on hand to answer questions about the estate.

Energy Efficiency and EPCs in Let Properties

Wednesday 21 March 2018:  10am – 3pm
Cumberwell Park Golf Club, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 2PQ

And

Thursday 22 March 2018: 10am – 3pm
Arundell Arms Hotel, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0AA

Price: £35 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC), non-members £45; students and YFC members £5
Supported by: Mogers Drewett

Are you worried you will not be able to let your older properties from April 2018 when new                energy efficiency regulations take effect?
Do you despair when you hear that let properties must be able to show Energy Performance                Certificate (EPC) ratings of 'E or better' from April 2018, when you know they cannot achieve it          without costly work?
Surely there must be exemptions; or some funding available to help with the cost of the                        improvements needed?
What about Listed properties? - I heard they are exempt; but then I heard it’s not that simple.

If you have been asking yourself these sorts of questions, then you should come along to one of these CLA seminars designed specifically for owners of let property.

Whether you let one property or a hundred, whether they are domestic or non-domestic, whether they are on an existing tenancy or up for renewal, you cannot afford to ignore the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England & Wales) Regulations 2015 which take effect in under 6 months.

From April 2018, it will be potentially illegal to let a domestic or non-domestic building in the worst EPC bands of F or G, and owners may need to make improvements to achieve E rating before letting. There are exemptions and exceptions - but the regulations are complex. Property owners need to be informed so they take the best course of action to ensure compliance, avoid penalties, retain occupancy and undertake improvements which are appropriate to the property. Many of the property improvements which are encouraged are simply not suitable for older properties.

This seminar will cover the key aspects of how these new regulations will affect owners of let property. Come along to hear a range of CLA and other professional advisers cover the key rules, what properties are affected and from when, what exemptions there are, the Green Deal finance which is designed to help owners comply without up-front costs and many other relevant issues.

The seminar will cover:

Basics of the regulations, affected property types, exemptions
CLA’s role over past few years, advice to those affected, CLA Guidance Notes
What property owners should consider doing and when for residential & commercial properties,          tenancy considerations
Energy Performance Certificates and traditional buildings
How to reduce heating costs in buildings through various measures
Green Deal finance, how it works
How the rules relate to Listed buildings
Legal aspects including penalties for non-compliance

There will be a range of advisers and speakers with time for questions and discussion on the day. With so many people affected by these soon to be in force regulations, we expect these seminars to be popular. You are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.

https://www.regonline.com/CalendarNET/EventCalendar.aspx?EventID=83116&view=Month

Be Ahead of the Curve - Ensuring the Farm Business is Fit for the Future

Tuesday 13 March 2018: 4 – 7pm
The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9PT
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5 followed by hot fork supper
Supported by: Rural Solutions, Milsted Langdon, Parnalls and HSBC      

It would be foolhardy to think that there will not be challenges ahead for the agricultural sector post Brexit.  In the longer term, there may be reduced levels of government funding and what funding there is may be specifically targeted for environmental work, for helping with productivity or for dealing with volatility.

But there will also be opportunities for progressive farmers and for imaginative thinking around land use and releasing the value of environmental land management. It may also be the right time to exploit those underused building assets on the farm.

Achieving and maintaining a profitable business should be at the top of every farmer’s current agenda and having a good business strategy will be a vital element to the future proofing of many farm businesses. 

This event will look at the management of rural businesses, risk management tools and opportunities to grow and move forward with the intention of safeguarding the farm business for future generations.

This seminar will examine:

  • Methods to evaluate the current business with business intelligence
  • Reviewing your financial viability
  • Taking the right strategy for your business
  • Considering new opportunities
  • Capitalising on your existing assets
  • Making a wise investment
  • A bank’s perspective
  • The approach
  • The business plan
  • Diversifying – top legal tips to succeed
  • What you should be doing to make sure you can secure any required funding to diversify
  • Alternative means of financing projects
  • Engaging with the next generation – family and employees
  • Cloud Accounting & Making Tax Digital 
Speakers will include:


  • James Del Mar, Rural Solutions
  • Ian Lloyd, Partner, Milsted Langdon, Accountants
  • Louis Mathers, Director Parnalls Solicitors
  • Euryn Jones, ‎Regional Agriculture Director, Wales and South West at HSBC Commercial Banking

CLA Making The Big House Pay

Wednesday 7 March 2018: 9.45am – 4.00pm
Great Fulford, Dunsford, Exeter EX6 7AJ
Price: £45 CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £55; Students & YFC members £5
Supported by: Savills and Saffery Champness               

Whether it is art or animals, weddings or weekend guests – the question of how to make money from the Manor House has been testing inventive minds of landowners and their advisers for decades.

It has been two years since we covered this topic and things have again moved on. This seminar will showcase the ideas, expertise, trials and tribulations of those who have secured the financial future of their family homes, complimented by professional advice on all practical aspects from planning to marketing.

Speakers will include:
  • Sammie Coryton, Pentillie Castle
  • Lady Victoria Vyvyan, talking about Trelowarren’s restaurant, spa and eco holiday lettings
  • Caroline Lowsley-Williams from Chavenage, which is currently enjoying fame from the successful Poldark series
  • Simon Foster, who has been responsible for marketing many successful enterprises including Eastnor Castle
  • Fiona Francombe, who runs the Bottleyard Studios in Bristol
  • Professionals from Savills and Saffery Champness
The seminar will cover:
  • Taxation, VAT, IHT & succession
  • How to compete effectively in today’s wedding market
  • Legal issues: contracts, employment
  • Film & photographic locations
  • Events & festivals
  • Spas, restaurants and eco holiday lettings
  • Luxury B&B and overcoming red tape
  • Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards on let property
The event is being held at Great Fulford, the home of CLA member Francis Fulford. Great Fulford featured in the TV programmes The F***ing Fulfords and Life is Toff. Francis is the author of Bearing Up: The Long View; looking at the troubled history of landowning and identifying the characteristics which have enabled many estates to survive while others have foundered. Surveying the scene today, Francis draws on his own experiences to suggest a strategy of survival in the twenty-first century.


The event will include a two course lunch with wine followed by a tour of Great Fulford with Francis. 

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Holiday Lettings
Wednesday 29 November 2017: 2pm – 4pm
The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Horton Cross, Ilminster TA19 9PT
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5
Supported by: Classic Cottages, Ernst and Young and Clarke Willmott

The UK is the 8th largest international tourism destination ranked by visitor numbers and is therefore a vital sector in the UK economy that is underpinned by the availability of accommodation. Much of this can attributed to hotels, but a significant proportion relies on holiday lets being provided by private individuals. Stretching from the sandy beaches in Cornwall, to the dramatic Jurassic coast in Dorset, private self-catering accommodation is required to meet the demands of the tourism industry.

However, there are a number of factors that prospective entrants or even current providers in the industry, may have overlooked, such as rating implications, tax pitfalls and planning considerations. This seminar will inform members on the process of entering the holiday letting market with its opportunities and potential hazards that will inevitably occur.

This seminar will cover:
What makes a successful holiday let
Planning considerations (Conversion/New Build/Listed building)
Tax and Rating Implications
Marketing
Legal Requirements

Key Speakers will be:
Elsa Littlewood – Ernst and Young,  Accountants
Simon Tregoning – Classic Cottages
Tim Hayden and Caroline Waller, Clarke Willmott

Click here to book

One Day All This Will Be.... Well, Whose Exactly?  DEVON
Alternatives to Conventional Succession Planning
Tuesday 21 November 2017: 4pm – 7pm followed by hot fork supper
Exeter Court Hotel, Kennford, Exeter, Devon EX6 7UX
followed by hot fork supper
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5

Supported by: PKF Francis Clark, Carter Jonas and Foot Anstey

Discussions on the need for family succession planning have been well rehearsed in recent years - it is a move which is essential to the protection of your assets, your business, your family and, more broadly, the future viability of the farming industry – but what if there is no natural successor?

It has been reported in recent years, that many family farms and estates are faced with the prospect that none of the children are interested in physically farming or do not have the skills, knowledge or desire to farm in today’s agricultural sector.  In those circumstances, farming families should start to explore ways to ensure the farm business continues after the current generation officially retires, rather than simply selling off the asset.  This option would keep the farm in ownership as a going concern, either as a secure investment, or in case a future generation wishes to farm.

This event sets out to provide a guide on the options available to develop a future plan that will drive forward both the farm business and the family’s objectives in a positive and profitable way.
The session is aimed at those without any family succession planning who are looking for alternative ways for business continuity or for those that wish to return to the family business, but may not have the experience or desire to do so right now.

We have the cream of the crop of industry professionals at these events who will endeavour to offer a leap of confidence in tackling this core continuity challenge to any family farming business.

This seminar will examine:

Recognising the family and business objectives
The challenges of planning for the future
Options for transition or continuation of the business
Career progression and training for family members
Legal and tax considerations
Our speakers will also talk through case studies of rural businesses and families who have taken a different approach with no conventional family succession

Speakers will include:
David Hebditch - Carter Jonas
Jonathan Hayes and Heather Britton – Francis Clark
Joel Woolf – Foot Anstey
Ian Bell - Addington Fund
Richard Soffe – Duchy Rural Business School
Professor Matt Lobley – University of Exeter
Alison Ricketts – Fresh Start Land Enterprise

Riparian & Fisheries Law and Water Pollution
Thursday 16 November 2017: 9.30am – 1pm
Manor Farm, Frampton Court Estate, Frampton on Severn, Gloucester GL2 7EP
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5
Supported by: Harrison Clark Rickerbys

Are there rivers, lakes or fishing interests on your or your neighbour’s land? Are you familiar with the law surrounding riparian ownership and fishing rights? If you own such assets, what should you do if they are affected by pollution? What if your activities have inadvertently polluted someone else’s river or fishery? What about poaching and trespass issues and what can be done to enhance river habitat for fisheries?

These and other issues will be covered by this seminar. Speakers from a leading law firm with expertise in this area will cover key aspects of the legal issues. We will also hear from Dane Broomfield of the Environment Agency about minimising pollution risk, regulatory enforcement and the various licenses and consents needed when work is carried out in or near rivers. In addition Harriet Alvis from Bristol Avon Rivers Trust will review what steps can be taken to enhance or restore river habitat for the benefit of freshwater fish.

Topics covered will include:

Legalities of ownership of river band and bed
Ownership of fish and the right to fish
Navigation rights
Common causes of pollution and liability
The process of investigation
Representation for the alleged polluter or affected owner
Evidence, defences
EA approach to enforcement
Trespass and poaching and theft
Review of licenses, permits and consents for work in rivers
River habitat management and enhancement for fish species

Speakers include:

Mary Wathen, Partner, Harrison Clark Rickerbys
Esther Stirling, Partner, Harrison Clark Rickerbys
Aled Owen, Partner, Harrison Clark Rickerbys
Dane Broomfield - Land and Water Team Leader, Environment Agency
Harriet Alvis – Project Officer, Bristol Avon Rivers Trust

Rural Tax – Know the ABC
Monday 6 November 2017: 4pm – 7pm followed by hot fork supper
Wessex Royale Hotel, Dorchester DT1 1UP
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5
Supported by: Humphries Kirk and Saffery Champness

Although taxation is a necessary evil there are things you can do to minimise your tax bill. We have an excellent line up of speakers who are experts in their field and will do their best to sweeten the taxation pill for you. How is agriculture viewed by HMRC? What are the tax pros and cons of different business structures? What are capital allowances and how can they help my business? What are the key considerations and reliefs available when passing assets on to the next generation? How do you minimise capital gains tax on development land and VAT on construction work? What is the general tax outlook and how does CLA influence it? If you want to make the right tax decisions and avoid expensive mistakes, this is the seminar for you.

This seminar will cover:

Tax Policy Outlook, Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser

  • Tax Policy ‘direction of travel’ looking forward; CLA’s role in influencing policy and advising members on tax issues

A is for ‘Agriculture’ Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser

  • Explanation of the definition of agriculture for tax purposes and the general tax treatment of agricultural businesses by HMRC

B is for ‘Business’, David Chismon, Saffery Champness

  • A review of the tax considerations of different Business structures (Sole Trader,Partnership, Ltd Company, Contract Farming, Share Farming)

C is for ‘Continuity’, Simon Cross, Humphries Kirk

  • Inheritance Tax Planning, Agricultural and Business Property Reliefs, HMRC treatment of ‘Farmhouses’ and of ‘trading’ vs. ‘investment’ activities, relevance of key cases such as the ‘Balfour’. Wills, Trusts and Power of Attorney

D is for ‘Diversification and Development’ David Chismon, Saffery Champness

  • Tax mitigation opportunities for development land 
  • Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser – Stamp Duty Land Tax on buying farms – the future of the ‘mixed use’ category. VAT and construction work – the impact of certain planning conditions.

Click here to book

Is your Farm Business Survival Kit Fit for the Future?
Wednesday 25 October 2017: 4 – 7pm
The Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9PT
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5 followed by hot fork supper
Supported by: Rural Solutions, Milsted Langdon, Parnalls and HSBC

There is real concern across the industry that too many farmers and land managers do not have a clear financial understanding of their farm business enterprises – and they need to act now to make sure their survival plan is going to work.

Understanding how to create and sustain a business-fit farming regime to ensure a profitable business moving forward should be at the top of every farmer and landowner’s current agenda.
Having an awareness of the potential risk to agricultural payments and knowing what that might do to an individual farm’s profit and loss account, will be a vital element to the future proofing of many farm-based businesses. Writing a meaningful and achievable business plan and the consideration of other investment opportunities will be a critical part of this.

With the unpredictability in the agricultural sector, each rural business needs to evaluate its asset portfolio to ensure that financial viability is maintained and that opportunities are maximised where they are appropriate for the long-term strategy of the business.

Lenders are now frequently asked to “stress test” your financial conditions as well as the agricultural portfolio – the question is, is your survival kit up-to-date and fit for purpose?

This event will look at the management of rural businesses, risk management tools and opportunities to grow and move forward with the intention of safeguarding the farm business for future generations.

This seminar will examine:

Methods to evaluate the current business with business intelligence
Reviewing your financial viability
Taking the right strategy for your business
Making a wise investment
Capitalising on your existing assets
Considering new opportunities
A bank’s perspective
The approach
The business plan
Diversifying – top legal tips to succeed
What you should be doing to make sure you can secure any required funding to diversify
Alternative means of financing projects
Engaging with the next generation – family and employees

Speakers will include:

James Del Mar, Rural Solutions
Ian Lloyd, Partner, Milsted Langdon, Accountants
Louis Mathers, Director Parnalls Solicitors
Euryn Jones, ‎Regional Agriculture Director, Wales and South West at HSBC Commercial Banking



One Day All This Will Be...Well, Whose Actually?  Alternatives to Conventional Succession Planning
Wednesday 18 Oct 2017: 4pm – 7pm followed by hot fork supper
The Barn at Berkeley, Berkeley Heath Farm House, Berkeley Heath, Berkeley GL13 9EW
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5

Supported by: Clarke Willmott, Smith and Williamson and Carter Jonas

Discussions on the need for family succession planning have been well rehearsed in recent years - it is a move which is essential to the protection of your assets, your business, your family and, more broadly, the future viability of the farming industry – but what if there is no natural successor?

It has been reported in recent years, that many family farms and estates are faced with the prospect that none of the children are interested in physically farming or do not have the skills, knowledge or desire to farm in today’s agricultural sector.  In those circumstances, farming families should start to explore ways to ensure the farm business continues after the current generation officially retires, rather than simply selling off the asset.  This option would keep the farm in ownership as a going concern, either as a secure investment, or in case a future generation wishes to farm.

This event sets out to provide a guide on the options available to develop a future plan that will drive forward both the farm business and the family’s objectives in a positive and profitable way.
The session is aimed at those without any family succession planning who are looking for alternative ways for business continuity or for those that wish to return to the family business, but may not have the experience or desire to do so right now.

We have the cream of the crop of industry professionals at these events who will endeavour to offer a leap of confidence in tackling this core continuity challenge to any family farming business.

This seminar will examine:

Recognising the family and business objectives
The challenges of planning for the future
Options for transition or continuation of the business
Career progression and training for family members
Legal and tax considerations
Our speakers will also talk through case studies of rural businesses and families who have taken a different approach with no conventional family succession

Speakers will include:
David Hebditch - Carter Jonas
Louise Somerset - Smith and Williamson
David Maddock - Clarke Willmott
Ian Bell - Addington Fund
Richard Soffe – Duchy Rural Business School
Professor Matt Lobley – University of Exeter
Alison Ricketts – Fresh Start Land Enterprise

Click here to book

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Growing your Food & Drink Business

Thursday 4 May 2017: 9am – 1pm followed by lunch and tour of Montgomery Cheddar

North Cadbury Court, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7DR (just off the A303)

Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-member £50; Students & YFC members £5
Non-members who join on the day will have their event fee refunded

Supported by: Browne Jacobson

The agri-food sector, from farm to consumer, plays a significant part in the UK economy, contributing £109bn in 2014 and supporting over  four million jobs  - 13.5% of the total number of people employed nationally, many of which are based in rural locations.

This event will provide practical and professional advice about starting up a project, adding value and growing it into a successful enterprise within the industry. Speakers will examine the issues pertinent to those wishing to start up including funding, negotiating complex legal regulations and marketing products effectively.

We will also be hearing from CLA members at the forefront of the industry who have developed their products, and encouraged substantial business growth through challenging times often through exporting. This will tie in with the CLA’s position on Brexit and the Governments future policy for the industry.

Following the seminar our host Jamie Montgomery will take a group on a tour of Montgomery Cheddar.

Speakers will include:

•         Dr Charles Trotman, CLA Rural Business and Economics Adviser
•         John Sheaves, Chief Executive, Taste of the West
•         Francesca Johnson, Redevelop
•         Browne Jacobson
•         Andy Fussel, Fussel’s Fine Foods
•         Simon Bryon-Edmond,  MD Chunk of Devon
•         Catherine Mead, Lynher Dairies and Cornish Yarg
•         Duncan Sinclair, Agriculture Manager, Waitrose

This seminar will examine:

•         Legalities
•         Marketing
•         Funding
•         Business Growth
•         Exporting
•         Brexit – What it means for the Food and Drink industry
•         Case Studies

Artisan Provender www.artisanprovender.com will be exhibiting

Planning, Development & Housing

Tuesday 21 March 2017: 10am – 3pm

Muddifords Court, Willand, Cullompton EX15 2QG

Price: £40 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-member s £60; Students & YFC members £5
Non-members who join on the day will have their event fee refunded

Supported by: Charles Russell Speechleys, Bruton Knowles and Albert Goodman

Owners of land with development potential know only too well that getting land developed for housing is a complex business. There are many stages in what can be a very long term process requiring input from professionals on planning, design, legal, financial and other aspects.

Getting planners and the local community onside is key. Good design and communications strategy are important but there are also other issues such as the legalities of option agreements and getting the right balance of affordable units in the development without compromising its viability.

The CLA successfully lobbies on rural planning and housing policy.  As well as influencing the current NPPF, the CLA also published in 2013 ‘Tackling the Housing Crisis in England’ which set out the CLA’s vision for securing and increasing housing supply in England.  This report identified the lack of ability to bring land forward for development as a key factor behind long-term housing undersupply in rural areas. However, there is an increasing need to create developments where the needs of people and the community are incorporated into the design. These principles are central to the recent Prince’s Foundation for Building Community “Landowner’s Guide to Good Development”.

As well as covering the various stages in bringing forward development schemes, this seminar will cover good community design and consultation principles, explore ways of financing affordable housing and provide an opportunity to hear from CLA members who are ‘bucking the trend’ with their own housing projects. Context will be provided through an update on existing housing policy, forthcoming legislation and an overview of what lobbying CLA is doing to help landowners bring rural land forward for much needed housing development.

Speakers will include:
•             The Princes Trust Foundation for Building Community
•             Vic O’Brien, Halo Housing
•             Simon Conibear, Estate Director, Duchy of Cornwall, Poundbury
•             Matthew O’Connell, CLA National Housing Adviser
•             Helen Hutton & Geoffrey Jordan, Charles Russell Speechleys
•             Dominic Crilly, Partner, Albert Goodman
•             Scott Winnard, Bruton Knowles
•             Sir Henry Elwes KCVO JP
•             Mark Heywood FRICS MRIN
•             Charles Hignett, CLA Somerset past Chairman

The seminar will cover:
•             Housing Policy context and update
•             Relevant Planning Issues
•             The Mechanics of Development
•             Option & promotion agreements
•             Tax considerations
•             Financing rented affordable rural housing
•             Good design and community consultation
•             Setting up structures for public realm management

•             Case studies

Camping, Glamping, Caravan Sites & Tourism

Tuesday 14 March 2017: 9.30am – 1pm

Lackham Agricultural College, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2NY

Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £50; Students & YFC members £5
Non-members who join on the day will have their event fee refunded

Supported by:  Carter Jonas and Clarke Willmott

Tourism is an important industry for creating economic growth in rural areas.  Being home to two UNESCO World heritage sites and many other tourism sites of national importance, Wiltshire has grown in recent years as a popular tourist destination.  However, supply has not kept up with demand and there is a significant shortage of rural tourism accommodation.  This event will provide practical and professional advice about creating and managing camping, Glamping and caravan sites as well as providing bed and breakfast accommodation.  Whether you are thinking of starting a business or looking to expand, our speakers can offer expert advice and experience of doing just that.   

Speakers will include:

·         Alistair Handyside; CLA member, CLA Devon Committee & CLA tourism advocate for the South West
·         Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service Rural Safety Team
·         Damien Field, The Caravan & Camping Club
·         Visit Wiltshire
·         Clarke Willmott
·         Carter Jonas

The seminar will cover:
  • ·         How to pitch your offer – marketing and social media
  • ·         Planning consents and camping and caravan licenses
  • ·         Adding value to the experience – money making trends
  • ·         Pricing, pets and public liability
  • ·         Rating, responsibilities, rules and regulations
  • ·         Capital Grants and growth money available

Yurts for Life and The Classic Pod Company will be exhibiting.



Rural Tax: Know the ABC

Tuesday 7 March 2017: 4pm – 7pm

The Alverton Hotel, Tregolls Road, Truro, Cornwall TR1 1ZQ

Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5

Non-members who join on the day will have their event fee refunded

Supported by: Clarke Willmott & Francis Clark

Although taxation is a necessary evil there are things you can do to minimise your tax bill. We have an excellent line up of speakers who are experts in their field and will do their best to sweeten the taxation pill for you. How is agriculture viewed by HMRC? What are the tax pros and cons of different business structures? What are capital allowances and how can they help my business? What are the key considerations and reliefs available when passing assets on to the next generation? How do you minimise capital gains tax on development land and VAT on construction work? What is the general tax outlook and how does CLA influence it? If you want to make the right tax decisions and avoid expensive mistakes, this is the seminar for you.

Agenda:
4.00 Registration & Coffee
4.30 Tax Policy Outlook, Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser
General comments on Tax Policy ‘direction of travel’ looking forward; CLA’s role in influencing policy and advising members on tax issues
4.50   A is for ‘Agriculture’ Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser
Explanation of the definition of agriculture for tax purposes and the general tax treatment of agricultural businesses by HMRC
5.00 B is for ‘Business’, Francis Clark
A review of the tax considerations of different Business structures (Sole Trader, Partnership, Ltd Company, Contract Farming, Share Farming)
5.30 Q & A
5.40 Comfort break
5.50 C is for ‘Continuity’, Stuart Thorne, Partner Clarke Willmott Solicitors
Inheritance Tax Planning, Agricultural & Business Property Reliefs, HMRC treatment of ‘Farmhouses’ and of ‘trading’ vs. ‘investment’ activities, relevance of key cases such as the ‘Balfour’ case. Wills, Trusts and Power of Attorney
6.30  D is for ‘Diversification & Development’ Francis Clark
Use of Capital Allowances; Capital Gains Tax & Development land  including options over land
Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser – Stamp Duty Land Tax on buying farms – the future of the ‘mixed use’ category. VAT & construction work – the impact of certain planning conditions.
7.00   Q & A - Tea & Depart

Click here to book
Rural Tax: Know the ABC

Thursday 23 February 2017: 4pm – 7pm

Junction 24 Ltd, Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset TA6 6DF
Price: £30 inc VAT CLA members (additional family members FOC); non-members £40; Students & YFC members £5

Non-members who join on the day will have their event fee refunded

Supported by: Porter Dodson & Francis Clark

Although taxation is a necessary evil there are things you can do to minimise your tax bill. We have an excellent line up of speakers who are experts in their field and will do their best to sweeten the taxation pill for you. How is agriculture viewed by HMRC? What are the tax pros and cons of different business structures? What are capital allowances and how can they help my business? What are the key considerations and reliefs available when passing assets on to the next generation? How do you minimise capital gains tax on development land and VAT on construction work? What is the general tax outlook and how does CLA influence it? If you want to make the right tax decisions and avoid expensive mistakes, this is the seminar for you.

Agenda:
4.00 Registration & Coffee
4.30 Tax Policy Outlook, Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser
General comments on Tax Policy ‘direction of travel’ looking forward; CLA’s role in influencing policy and advising members on tax issues
4.50   A is for ‘Agriculture,’ Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser
Explanation of the definition of agriculture for tax purposes and the general tax treatment of agricultural businesses by HMRC
5.00 B is for ‘Business’, Francis Clark
A review of the tax considerations of different Business structures (Sole Trader, Partnership, Ltd Company, Contract Farming, Share Farming)
5.30 Q & A
5.40 Comfort Break
5.50 C is for ‘Continuity’, Kate James, Partner, Cathryn Smith, Associate, Porter Dodson Solicitors
Inheritance Tax Planning, Agricultural & Business Property Reliefs, HMRC treatment of ‘Farmhouses’ and of ‘trading’ vs. ‘investment’ activities, relevance of key cases such as the ‘Balfour’ case. Wills, Trusts and Power of Attorney
Tax Planning for Succession; Overcoming Family Breakdown
6.30 D is for ‘Diversification & Development’ Francis Clark
Use of Capital Allowances; Capital Gains Tax & Development land  including options over land
Louise Speke, CLA Chief Taxation Adviser – Stamp Duty Land Tax on buying farms – the future of the ‘mixed use’ category. VAT & construction work – the impact of certain planning conditions.
7.00   Q & A - Tea & Depart

Thursday, August 18, 2016

UNDERSTANDING BREXIT - What it means for you and your business

This series of  meetings is being organised by the CLA in the South West to offer members an exclusive opportunity to hear from CLA experts about how Government is set up to manage the UK’s exit from the European Union.

We will also be exploring the Government’s priorities and the implications for those that own land and run businesses in the countryside.

Key issues include the immediate issues related to the Common Agricultural Policy and what will replace it; the UK’s approach to trade negotiations with the EU and the rest of the world; the opportunities and risks of changes to regulations; and the future of labour supply.   

You will hear what the CLA is doing for you at this critical time; have a chance to hear from peers and share your views on the risks and opportunities ahead. It is also a chance to discuss with members the CLA’s objectives and the best ways of achieving them – the whole debate will help inform our decision making.

The meetings will take place on 7 and 9 September at the following venues:

7 September
8.30am                 Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8PY
12.30pm               White Horse Enterprise Centre, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 0XA
4.30pm                 Ingleside House, Cirencester, Glos GL7 1BN

9 September
8.30am                 Kingsley Village Centre, A30, Fraddon, Truro, Cornwall TR9 6NA
12.30pm               Exeter Court Hotel, Exeter, Devon  EX6 7UX
4.30pm                 Junction 24, Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 6DF

The cost is £10 and each meeting will last approximately two hours and the morning meetings will include tea, coffee bacon rolls and Danish pastries, the lunchtime ones sandwiches and the evening ones tea and cake.


To reserve your place got to www.regonline.co.uk/claswevents

Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Managing Rented Properties
Wednesday 16 November: 2.00pm – 5.00pm
Monks Yard, Horton Cross Farm, Horton Cross, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9PT
Price: £30 CLA members; £40 Non-members inc VAT

Supported by: Savills

In recent years there has been significant new legislation and numerous revisions to previous Housing Acts which affect residential lettings. Letting a property is fraught with compliance issues and there is an ever increasing need for an efficient, clear and consistent approach to managing let property as well as having the best possible procedures in place to ensure best practice and meeting statutory requirements. It has never been more important for Landlords and Letting Agents to fully understand their obligations and are compliant with the current legislation.

The seminar will cover:
Regulatory and Compliance Update
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards
A Market Update on Residential Lettings
A Case study on managing a Residential Portfolio

Speakers will include:
Matthew O’Connell, CLA National Housing Advisor
Tim Mockridge, Savills, Strategic Projects
Richard Morris MRICS FAAV, Savills
Andrew Woollacott MRICS FAAV, Savills
Simon Derby FRICS FAAV, Savills

Equine Seminar – Putting the Industry Through Its Paces
Thursday 10 November 2016: 9.30am – 2.15pm
Unicorn Trust Equestrian Centre, Netherswell, Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1JZ
Price: £30 CLA member; £40 Non-Member inc VAT

Supported by: Butler Sherborn, Lodders, McLoughlin Planning & Hazlewoods

The UK equine industry contributes some £7 billion a year to the UK economy and provides full time employment of about 200,000 people, the majority of which are based in rural areas.   With nearly four million people involved in riding or equestrian sports in this country, many see this as a great business opportunity.

The CLA recognises that within its membership of 33,000, that there will be many who are directly or indirectly involved within the equine industry and with several changes in legislation in recent years, the CLA has produced a new equestrian Handbook titled “Horses and the Law”, which will be launched at this event.

This seminar will examine issues pertinent to those already running – or thinking of running – an equine business. With experts in the field (and the saddle), we will cover a range of subjects including planning, rates, employment law, Health & Safety, tax, livery contracts and liability.

Once the main business is concluded, International event rider Ben Way will be offering a demonstration to members on board one of his top horses.

This seminar will examine:

Planning
Business rates
Employment
Health & Safety
Livery
Transport
Legislation for jumps/fencing/exercising
IHT
Property

Speakers will include:
Ben Way, Head of Equestrian Propety Butler Sherborn & International event rider
Richard Greasby, Head of Rural, Butler Sherborn
CLA National Adviser
Representatives from Lodders Solicitors
Nathan McLoughlin, McLoughlin Planning
Nicholas Smail, Partner, Hazlewoods, Accountants
Kath Leonard, Joint Support Lead, Cotswold DC & West Oxon DC

Click here to book
Saving the Family Silver
Wednesday 2 November 2016: 6pm – 8pm finishing with drinks & nibbles
Foot Anstey, Salt Quay House, 4 North East Quay, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth, PL4 0BN
Price: £10 CLA members; £15 Non-Members inc VAT

Supported by: Foot Anstey

Dealing with a family estate can be complicated not only in its own terms but in terms of the emotional and familial relationships which arise.

Decisions you make about your business, your wealth and your affairs have the potential to affect not only you but the lives and wellbeing of those closest to you and those that come after you.

This event will focus on a land owning family where:

An important family member is losing mental capacity and has not yet made a will
A young family member is about to get married
There are serious financial problems for the business which are compounded by an aging workforce and the imminent loss of the basic payment
Land on the edge of the estate has just been allocated in the local plan for residential development

Speakers will include:

Joel Woolf – Head of Agricultural Foot Anstey
Lucy Gill – Contentious Probate Foot Anstey
Stacey Bryant – Mental Capacity Foot Anstey
Jessica Pitt – Matrimonial Foot Anstey
James Collings – Employment Foot Anstey
John Catchpole – Landowner Development Foot Anstey