• Defra due to make announcement soon • Existing agreements continue as usual • Change affects existing applications A long-awaited update on the future of Defra’s capital grant scheme is expected early this year, says the government. It follows widespread anger and frustration after capital grants were quickly closed... Read more

A new-style of finance has helped secure a Midland farming family’s future. A Northamptonshire farmer says he has future-proofed his business by using green finance to fund a key diversification project. Third-generation farmer Harry Brown manages 600ha (1500 acres) of predominantly arable land at Potcote Farm, near Towcester. The... Read more

The government has missed a key opportunity to boost economic growth for agriculture and UK businesses, says a farming analyst. As the dust settles from the autumn Budget, the consequences for farming and the wider economy are becoming clear, says Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the Central Association... Read more

EXPERT VIEW The government’s Autumn Budget heralds significant tax implications for farmers which must be carefully managed, says Stephanie Dennis. Diversification can offer many farmers a valuable additional income stream. But careful legal and tax planning is crucial to avoid unexpected costs. Farmers need to consider how diversification impacts... Read more

Biggest change ‘for a generation’ Farming families should seek professional advice rather than making rash decisions following the Autumn budget, say financial experts. It comes after the government’s decision to abolish 100% agricultural property relief (APR) and impose inheritance tax (IHT) on the value of farming assets above £1m.... Read more

Farmland markets virtually flatlined in the third quarter of 2024 – reflecting high average values which remain steady, suggest the latest figures. And with some distinct emerging trends, some areas of the country are commanding exceptional prices, according to the Knight Frank Farmland Index, which tracks the values of... Read more

A roadmap outlining how producers can profit from more sustainable farming methods has been unveiled in two landmark reports. The reports – a joint initiative by Lloyds Bank and the Soil Association – detail the framework needed for a sustainable UK farming industry and set out a comprehensive environmental... Read more