Sign in Subscribe
Farmers

Future of Powys Land: Sustainable Farming on a Commercial Scale

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

A new project near Newtown, Powys, aims to prove the viability of sustainable farming practices on the county's land, with a focus on agroecology. The project, led by the Future Farms Partnership, seeks to supply produce to local markets, schools, and potentially nearby cities like Birmingham. Three plots of 36 acres of Powys County Council-owned land in Sarn will be used to grow fruit, vegetables, and other crops using environmentally conscious methods.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project will provide a local veg box scheme, individual enterprises, and develop plans for selling organic vegetables, salad crops, seeds, and prepared foods.
  • Agroforestry and small livestock will be incorporated to increase soil health and reduce the need for external inputs.
  • The site will include three temporary homes for the farmers, supported by new planning guidance from Powys County Council.
  • The project is expected to create more resilient farming communities, jobs, and improve food security in the area.
  • Funding has been provided by the Welsh Government (£270,000), UK Government (£341,000), and the National Lottery Heritage Fund (£20,000).
  • The project will be supported by organizations such as Cultivate, Mentera, and Farming Connect.

Statistics:

  • 36 acres of land will be used for the project.
  • £631,000 in total funding has been provided by the Welsh Government, UK Government, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
  • The project aims to supply produce to local markets, schools, and potentially nearby cities like Birmingham.
  • 3 temporary homes will be built for the farmers on site.
  • The project will incorporate agroforestry and small livestock to increase soil health and reduce external inputs.

Sources:

  • "Powys land used for sustainable farming project" (no publication date or timestamp provided)
  • Future of Powys Land: Sustainable Farming on a Commercial Scale (no specific publication date or timestamp provided)
  • Our Food 1200 website: "We are building three new farms at Sarn in Powys." (no publication date or timestamp provided)
  • Brecon & Radnor Express: "Powys woman arrested under new Palestine Action terrorism ruling" (https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/powys-woman-arrested-under-new-palestine-action-terrorism-ruling-810323, 2023)
  • Brecon & Radnor Express: "Powys County Council budget for 2024/2025 set to post a surplus of £53 million" (https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/powys-county-council-budget-for-20242025-set-to-post-a-surplus-of-ps53-million-810195, 2023)
  • Brecon & Radnor Express: "Mid Wales tourism group launches support hub for businesses" (https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/mid-wales-tourism-group-launches-support-hub-for-businesses-810196, 2023)
  • Brecon & Radnor Express: "Councillors urged to oppose longer NHS waits for Powys patients" (https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/powys-motion-opposes-cross-border-nhs-waiting-time-changes-810194, 2023)

Read more