Two new grant schemes have handed a welcome boost to South Lanarkshire’s farmers and food processors.

The Farm Business Development Scheme offers farmers assistance in diversifying into new ventures – on or off the farm.

It is open to farmers and their immediate families who have been actively involved in agriculture for at least two years.

Meanwhile, the Processing and Marketing Scheme will be available to all agri-food processors – from on-farm operations through to large brand leaders.

It offers capital and non-capital assistance to allow producers and processors to increase quality, revenue and market share at home and abroad as well as encouraging the development of new and innovative products.

Minister for Environment and Rural Development Ross Finnie, who launched the schemes, said: “These will be worth more than £75 million to people in Lowland Scotland and make a valuable contribution to improved employment and living conditions and sustainable agriculture.

“I hope they will prove particularly helpful for farmers affected by foot and mouth.”

A maximum grant of £25,000 will be available per business through the Farm Business Development Scheme or £30,000 if three or more applicants join together. Depending on the type of project, grants are available for up to 50 per cent of costs.

Types of project that are covered by the grant include: agricultural diversification; leisure, recreation and sporting facilities; processing of forest products; residential letting; rural services; tourist accommodation and tourist facilities.

Grants under the Processing and Marketing Scheme will vary, providing up to a maximum of 40 per cent of eligible project costs.

Marion Currie, Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department project officer with South Lanarkshire Council is available to provide advice and support to anyone interested in apply for either grant. For more information contact Marion on 01698 453629.

A Helping Hand for Farmers

Warnock Plant Hire had been trading for over 20 years when the company laid off its employees.

It was a tough decision. However, the company felt there was no other option after a rates assessment on the farm buildings it used left it facing heavy payments.

And that could have been that – but for a discussion with Marion Currie, Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department project officer with South Lanarkshire Council.

Marion referred Warnock Plant Hire to Whyte and Barrie Chartered Surveyors who arranged a re-assessment.

This uncovered that several farm buildings not actually used by the business had been included in the original assessment.

As a result, the company has now started trading again and is looking forward to expanding and taking on more staff.

Marion said: “The message is that we are here to help. If anyone needs advice on the Farm Business Development Scheme, the Processing and Marketing Scheme or other matters, they should get in touch.

“We can listen to their problems and hopefully find a solution.”

Business South Lanarkshire - Summer/ Autumn 2001

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