Farmers and land managers should not delay in applying for grants: CLA Cymru

“Farmers, food growers and tree-planters should take advantage of new funding available, and focus on making applications accurately and promptly,” says Fraser McAuley, CLA Cymru Policy Advisor. “The funds’ Expression of Interest windows open between now and June. Our advice is that there is definitely an advantage in making submissions early – not only to be at the top of the applications list, but because time might be needed for providing additional information or making modifications.”

“A raft of support is available for investment in new equipment and technology, natural resource management, organic production, horticulture, slurry management, food supply chains and woodland creation. This is part of a £227 million package of support over the next three years.”

“Applicants should focus on the eleven grants or schemes and understand how these can support their business plans. Equally, the opportunity of new resources available should encourage entrepreneurial land managers to make new priorities and undertake new projects. This could be very important as we move into transition stage to Wales new Sustainable Farming Scheme, set to be outlined in Welsh Government legislation this summer.”

Fraser adds, “The Welsh Government announced the departmental budgets recently, and we’ve seen the Infrastructure Investment Strategy, which made some allocation for agricultural transition. While we welcome the announcement of support for agriculture, horticulture, forestry and land management, the recent announcements raise questions about how the various budgets fit together over given timeframes. We must determine if and how the resources announced meet the needs of the sector to ensure it remains globally competitive. We need to see the big-picture. We will be working with the Government to obtain the necessary clarity.”

The Welsh Government announcement about funding is here. The summary of upcoming schemes is here.