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Rural farming

Grant funds on offer in Wales for machinery and equipment

Q2 2017

Grant funding is available for farmers and landowners in Wales looking to invest in equipment and machinery that will make their farming operations safer, more efficient and better for the environment, according to Strutt & Parker.

The Farm Business Grant scheme, which opened on 2 May, is offering grants of between £3,000 and £12,000 to farmers looking to invest in a range of capital items – from livestock handling systems through to GPS units.

Matthew Martin, farm consultant in the Shrewsbury office of Strutt & Parker, said producers would be able to apply for funding on a range of equipment that the government has decided offers benefits to farm businesses and the wider environment.

“The Welsh Government has produced a list of about 70 items that are eligible for the scheme which includes mobile or fixed handling systems, EID hand-held devices, trailing shoe slurry systems and variable rate controllers for sprayers and fertiliser spreaders,” he said.

“The idea is that these are items which will improve technical performance, bring financial benefits and also help people to farm in a more energy-efficient way. Improved handling facilities could also be beneficial in terms of animal welfare and the health and safety of the operator.”

Mr Martin added: “The scheme is discretionary and the amount of grant offered will depend on individual circumstances, but should be around 40% of the eligible costs of a project.

“This is a great opportunity for farmers who may need to upgrade their equipment, with the money on offer helping to make it more financially feasible.”

All businesses applying for the Farm Business Grant will be required to register their business with Farming Connect in advance of applying. A partner in the business will also be required to attend a ‘Farming For the Future’ event organised by Farming Connect.

Only businesses with a turnover of less than £1m are eligible.

For more advice and information contact Matthew Martin on 01743 284 134.