Woodland & forestry

Woodland & forestry
 

Woodland and forestry used to be primarily about timber production.  Today it is more frequently about conservation and woodland management.  What hasn’t changed is its importance and substantial value to you as part of your farm or estate sale. One you will want to protect for the future.

Managing the woodlands and forestry on your farm or estate is increasingly difficult and often fraught with new and changing schemes and regulations. The value of the land and timber may be enhanced by its sporting and amenity use. But its value may never be realized if the general public has inadvertently established rights you’re not aware of. Whether you are buying or selling you need to know where you stand before you act.

Woodland Schemes

You may have previously opted for one of the many woodland schemes, such as the Woodland Grant Scheme. If you have not complied with the DEFRA conditions during the agreed term, the planting and maintenance grants you received could be at risk. We will make sure that your position is protected and, where possible,  that the buyer is responsible for re-negotiating a new agreement with DEFRA.

Planning Consents – Know your options

Planning consents for woodland and forestry aren’t always straightforward. The growing of trees doesn’t usually require planning permission and generally falls outside the scope of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.  But planning consent may be needed for the major works associated with large scale forestry, such as felling, ground leveling, road construction and engineering works. A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on a single tree or a clump of trees may stop your plans in their tracks. You may also be required to conduct an environmental impact assessment where your planting is over prescribed areas. An extra headache you can do without.

There is often a way through the maze of planning consent that will allow you to achieve your plans. Understanding the planning complexities and knowing all your available options is your best chance of success. Advice and support from an experienced agricultural team will give you the reassurance you need to pursue your plans and protect the current and future value of your woodland and forestry.