“In a year promising momentous change, Welsh farmers, land managers and rural business people have a free opportunity to learn and debate the vital issues which will affect their livelihoods,” says Nigel Hollett.

“Our free webinar will examine how the sustainable farming scheme, to be launched in this spring’s Agriculture Bill, should develop to meet vital goals in food production, natural resource management and environmental care. Critically, we will examine how the scheme must support farming, deliver high standards in animal welfare and environmental care, and encourage responsible tree planting to help meet net-zero goals.”

“We will also focus on how the planning regime must be improved to nurture green growth, and how a positive post-Covid 19 rural economic strategy must support a vibrant economy including tourism and hospitality. Expert panellists will offer their predictions for the year ahead – and their advice for rural business people.”

The webinar panel consists: Iain Hill-Trevor, Chair CLA Cymru, Rhys Davies, from Cadnant Planning Ltd, Morien Jones from M.P.Jones & Son EnviroAgri, Lloyd James from chartered surveyors Owen & Owen, Dr Charles Trotman, Senior Economist CLA, Fraser McAuley, Senior Policy Advisor CLA Cymru, and Mared Williams from The Rhug Estate.

“These issues dictate the future of the rural economy,” Nigel adds. “We will be looking at matters which are front-of-mind for farmers, land managers and rural business-people today: the impact of the Agriculture Pollution Regulations, current moratorium on rural development owing to high fluvial phosphate levels, permitted development rights, and of course, how economic growth must follow easing of the Welsh Government’s Covid 19 restrictions.”

CLA Cymru’s online webinar takes place on 26 January, between 4.30-5.45pm. There is no charge. Attendees can register to receive the joining instructions by calling the CLA on 01547 317085.