Diversification News

Following the launch of a consultation on whether to permanently extend permitted development rights (PDR), we spoke to Pitchup founder Dan Yates to find out what this could mean for British farmers who are hoping to diversify this summer.

The UK government has launched a consultation into permanently extending permitted development rights (PDR) for tent camping from 28 days to 60 days for farmers and landowners in England.

Farmers and landowners are being invited to a free event in Kent to learn more about rainwater harvesting and associated funding opportunities on Friday 3 March, at Marden Cricket and Hockey Club in Tonbridge.

Free-to-use diversification website The Business Barn is asking farmers and rural landowners to share their experiences.

From farm shops to wedding venues or forest bathing to event spaces, the options for starting a new land-based tourism business are endless.

Nearly 40% of farmers said they plan to increase diversification in the next five years, but many are waiting for details on farm support systems and assessing the implications of the cost-of-living crisis.

At an online event hosted by Trinity Global Farm Pioneers, expert speakers discussed how agroforestry and biodiversity can help drive agricultural production and explored the barriers to uptake among farmers. Henrietta Szathmary writes.

In uncertain times, Rural Asset Finance is seeing more and more farmers looking to diversify into green energy. While traditional banks which may balk at the idea of loaning money for new enterprises that have not been tried and tested, Rural Asset Finance explains an alternative funding option that is available to diversifying farmers.

The UK is on a journey from fossil fuels to a renewable future. Drax provides a guide to creating revenue for your farm by generating and selling your own renewable electricity.

A report published by energy offtaker, Limejump, highlights the opportunities for farmers to generate significant returns from small scale renewable energy assets.

In times of significant uncertainty, it could be difficult for farming businesses to access the finance they need from traditional banks. Rural Asset Finance explains the different paths available to farmers and how its non-traditional approach provides access to funds for a wide variety of projects.

The staycation boom is here to stay – in fact, it’s stronger than ever, says outdoor accommodation expert Pitchup.com – providing a tempting diversification opportunity for farmers.