BPS Reminders
The BPS 2018 application window is now open and with the deadline coming up on the 15th May 2018 below are some key reminders.
BPS 2018 Scheme Rules
The RPA has published a further updated version of the BPS 2018 Scheme Rules guidance online. The updated guidance can be found on the GOV.uk website or at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/697011/BPS_2018_scheme_rules_v4.0.pdf with the key changes being:
Countryside Stewardship Update
CS Application Packs
The January bulletin reported on the opening of the Countryside Stewardship Scheme application window and included information on the new ‘streamlined’ offers. The ‘Arable Offer’ is now available to apply for online.
The RPA have announced various changes which will affect Basic Payment Scheme applications for 2018. In addition, Natural England is now offering simplified Countryside Stewardship Agreements which aim to be more flexible and accessible.
In light of these changes Adkin, in conjunction with Natural England will be holding a seminar on Thursday 12th April 2018 at 4.30pm
at the Loyd Lindsay Rooms, Ardington, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 8PS
RSVP to: Katie Day
Adkin
Tel: (01235) 862888
katie.day@adkin.co.uk
Katie Day joined Adkin as Practice Manager in February 2018. Katie’s background is Finance based, completing both AAT and a degree in International Accountancy part time, whilst working as a Management Accountant. Katie brings a range of experience from her accountancy background, as well HR knowledge, event management and project planning skills. Here at Adkin, Katie is responsible for a wide range of compliance, health & safety and office management tasks.
As the Government announces that high speed broadband should be a legal right to all business’ and consumers alike, the telecommunications infrastructure is under pressure to deliver across the board. Together with an increasing reliance on telecoms and the emergence of a new era of 5G, the Government has drafted and effected new policy to expedite operators reaching such targets.
We are delighted to announce the appointment of James Fergusson BA (Hons) MSc, Jack Louineau (BSc (Hons) and Rosa Noll BSc (Hons) to the expanding Adkin team.
James has recently moved back to Oxfordshire after spending a year working for a leading Scottish firm of Property Consultants and Chartered Surveyors in the Highlands. James has an Honours Degree from King’s College London and graduated from the Royal Agricultural University in 2016 with a MSc in Rural Estate Management
Jack graduated from Harper Adams University in 2016 with an Honours Degree in Rural Enterprise and Land Management. Prior to graduation Jack spent a year working in a livestock market based on Exmoor where he was involved in a variety of professional work in addition to market work. He then took a year out after after graduating to work hands on in a range of agricultural disciplines and to travel.
Rosa previously worked for a leading national firm of Property Consultants and Chartered Surveyors in Berkshire. She graduated from the Royal Agricultural University in 2012 with an Honours degree in Agricultural Land Management.
BPS 2018: Additional Greening Changes
DEFRA has now confirmed additional changes to the greening rules for BPS 2018;
In his capacity as Master, Julian Sayers hosted The Worshipful Company of Farmers Annual Livery Banquet at The Stationers’ Hall in the City of London on Wednesday 17th January. Julian gave an address followed by David Fursdon as the Guest Speaker with his wealth of experience as an estate owner and his wide ranging public service. They spoke about the current work of the Company and this year’s theme, the ‘Post-Brexit Future for Land Tenure and Occupation’ as well as the Livery’s continuing educational programme.
The 57th Adkin Annual Sale of Hay & Straw is the first to be held in conjunction with Thimbleby & Shorland for the express purpose of maintaining this important service to the farming community. The sale was held at Ardington, Oxfordshire on Tuesday 16th January 2018 and met with a lively trade. As ever the weather in the summer of 2017 had had a marked effect upon the fodder offered which overall was slightly down in quantity on recent years. The hay was generally of good quality and met with strong demand. The straw from the 2017 harvest inevitably suffered from the weather. Credit goes to our vendors for maintaining supplies. Those who entered met with prices far in excess of recent years.
Countryside Stewardship Changes
The Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) is due for a number of improvements ahead of the 2018 application period. These aim to make it easier for farmers to access the funding it offers.
Streamline Packages
Four ‘packages’ covering the most common farm type will be offered and will have a shorter application form and simpler checks when applying. The packages will be non-competitive meaning applicants are guaranteed an offer as long as they meet the minimum requirements. Individual management options are grouped together within a package under a number of categories. There will then be a requirement to pick a minimum number of options from each category.
