We are pleased to welcome Megan Middleton who is joining the Adkin team as a full-time graduate surveyor.  Megan has been studying for her Msc in Rural Land and Estate Management at the Royal Agricultural University and initially joined us in the Spring on an part-time basis whilst completing her dissertation.  She had previously trained in veterinary medicine and worked in business development for commercial veterinary companies before deciding on a career change.

Megan’s roots are in farming, she grew up on a beef, sheep and arable farm in Cornwall that forms part of the Duchy of Cornwall estate. Not just a traditional farm, the farm also has many diversifications. Outside of work Megan enjoys all things rural – she is married to a farrier, has an interest in countryside sports and can often be found exploring the countryside with her dog Monty.

We are pleased to announce the election of Simon Alden as President of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV). 

The CAAV is a specialist professional body representing almost 3,000 members practising in a diverse range of agricultural and rural work throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.  CAAV members are agricultural and rural valuers who provide professional advice and valuation expertise on issues affecting the countryside.  These can cover many topics such as tenancy matters, sales and purchase of farms and land, planning and development, taxation, compulsory purchase of land and property, auctioneering, conservation issues and farm business advice.

Thames Water have resurrected a proposal to construct an above ground reservoir between the villages of Steventon and East Hanney in Oxfordshire.  This is to help manage the increasing demand for water in the South East.  The reservoir would cover an area of 2560 acres with an 8 mile perimeter, and would have connections to and from the River Thames, with other watercourses re-routed and new roads built.

This is one of five options being considered and, if constructed would deliver a range of benefits to local communities. These would include

• A secure supply of water for customers across the south east;
• Appropriate planting and landscaping to encourage greater biodiversity;
• New carbon capturing habitats;
• New accessible leisure and recreational facilities including walking, cycling, fishing, birdwatching and a wide range of water sports;
• Improvements to local infrastructure

Initial surveys are due to be undertaken throughout 2022 with more detailed surveys and ground investigation works in 2023. An informal public consultation stage is likely to be held in 2024.

Additional information is available on the Thames Water website.

If you are affected by this scheme or would like further information, please contact Sarah Payne (sarah.payne@adkin.co.uk)  or Simon Alden (simon.alden@adkin.co.uk)

30 May 2022

The last 12 months have been one of the most successful years for agency sales that Adkin have ever achieved.  With transactions agreed at over £162 million our Agency Review reflects this highly successful activity and provides our predictions for the coming year.

You can read the full report here: Agency Review 2021-22

If you own rural property, whether it is residential, farmland or strategic development land and you are looking for totally independent advice combined with exceptional service, then please do not hesitate to contact us by phone 01235 862 888 or email mail@adkin.co.uk

PROPERTY MANAGER WANTED

Adkin is a small friendly team of Chartered Surveyors based in the attractive village of Ardington near Wantage, Oxfordshire. Our work includes all aspects of agricultural, commercial and residential property throughout Southern England, but primarily in Oxfordshire and surrounding counties.

Due to an ever increasing workload, an exciting opportunity has arisen for the appointment of a full-time Property Manager.

The main duties will involve working alongside the Surveyors in the management of all types of property, including:

• Property Lettings and Viewings
• Inspecting and Instructing Property Repairs
• Liaising and Reporting to Utility Providers
• Property Compliance
• Periodic Property Inspections
• Maintaining our Property Database.

The ideal applicant will need to have a flexible approach due to the varied workload and demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills.

The role will be mainly office based but site visits will be required. Previous experience in Property Management preferred, along with experience in all Microsoft applications, but full training can be given. Car owner/driver necessary.

Please send applications in writing, enclosing your CV, to:

Mrs Kerry Holbrook-Bull

Adkin, Orpwood House, School Road, Ardington, Wantage, Oxon, OX12 8PQ.

If you wish to call to discuss the position in the first instance, please contact Kerry on (01235) 862888 or e-mail kerry.holbrook-bull@adkin.co.uk

All applications and enquires will be treated in the strictest confidence.

SURVEYOR WANTED – All Levels of Experience Considered

Due to increasing workload, Adkin have opportunities to join the team in our highly respected firm.  We are open to applications from those recently qualified or perhaps part way through their training but are also very interested in those more experienced including Associate/Director level. Excellent career prospects are available with an opportunity to progress within the company and move towards taking equity in the business. This is a great chance to develop your career and be key in shaping the future of a dynamic and driven company.

Based in the attractive village of Ardington in Oxfordshire, our dedicated team offer an array of services including agricultural, commercial and residential disciplines, and therefore a wide variety of work and clients is attained. The main focus of this position(s) will be professional work and valuations but those with experience in management will also be welcome.

Many of our clients have been with us for generations, something we are very proud of, and a testament to the reputation and expertise of the firm and our ability to move with the times. We work for a diverse range of clients with interesting and demanding requirements and whilst the majority based in central southern England, we increasingly act for landowners nationwide.

Role requirements

• Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors ideally with Registered Valuer status or working towards the APC.
• Fellowship of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers is preferable but not essential and we would be very willing to support those looking to gain this qualification.
• Motivated and driven.
• Ability to shape your role within the company.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible working considered.

Please send applications with your CV to:  Mrs Emily Ham MRICS FAAV  emily.ham@adkin.co.uk 

If you wish to call to discuss the position in the first instance, please contact Emily on (01235) 434382 or by the e-mail address above.
All applications and enquiries will be treated in strictest confidence.

Julian Sayers, in his capacity as Chairman of the Worshipful Company of Farmers Charitable Trust met HRH The Countess of Wessex at last week’s Livery Banquet and discussed the Company’s charitable endeavours which include the well respected agricultural and rural leadership courses.