Author: Tracey Butler

DEFRA Announces SFI26

Following the NFU conference on 24-25 February, details surrounding the revamped SFI scheme for England were announced. To summarise what we know so far: It’s worth noting, all existing agreements will continue under their current terms. If you think you are eligible for SFI26 or would like to talk through how a scheme might work […]

Funding is back! Major grants set to reopen this year!

Emma Reynolds confirmed at the NFU 2026 conference that Capital Grants are expected to reopen in July 2026 with an increased budget of £225 million. We are awaiting further details to be unveiled ahead of the grant opening for applications. It has also been confirmed that the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) will re-open […]

South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO)

Thames Water’s proposed South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) may affect many of our clients, with the proposed site covering an area of around 4,500 hectares between Abingdon, Steventon, Grove and Garford. If the reservoir is consented, it is intended that early works begin as soon as 2027, with construction being complete in 2043. The […]

Shock Announcement from Defra – SFI24 Scheme

In another shock announcement by Defra, the SFI24 scheme has been closed to new applications with immediate effect. No prior warning of this closure was given. Key points:• Existing agreements in place will continue• SFI24 applications submitted but not yet offered will be offered an agreement in due course• We’re told SFI applications can still […]

Capital Grant/FETF Updates

Capital Grant Update The RPA have released an update that the 4,040 applications that have been on hold are due to be processed, with the scheme reopening later this year with some amendments. Limits will be set on how much you can apply for in each of the four categories: You can apply for a […]

Renewables Update

The UK renewable energy market is booming, and one of the most profitable avenues for farmers and landowners is leasing land for solar schemes. Solar farms are increasingly in demand as the country pushes toward net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and energy companies are seeking large open spaces to install solar panels. For farmers and […]

New Hedgerow Regulations

The RPA have announced that new hedgerow regulations begin from the 1st July 2024 for the management of hedgerows on agricultural land. The new regulations are very similar to the previous cross compliance rules. The new regulations require a 2-metre buffer strip, no cultivation or application of pesticides or fertilisers within the 2-metre buffer strip, […]

2026 Seminars

Where are we now?
Basics of IHT & Valuations
Farming with Third Parties
Dodging the IHT Bullet
Planning on Farm
Alternative Sources of Income

2025 Seminars

Today’s Farming Challenges
Planning & Infrastructure Reform
Residential Tenancy Changes
Energy & Renewables
Unpicking the Budget – CGT & IHT
BNG & Nutrient Neutrality Update
Sustainable Farming Incentive

2024 Seminars

SFI and Grant Schemes
Renewables
Biodiversity Net Gain & Nutrient Neutrality
Adapting to Climate Change
Succession Planning
Letting Workshops & Offices etc
BPS Transition Period

Becky Farthing

WebbPaton - Becky Farthing

BSC (HONS) MRICS FAAV
Partner
Becky is currently on maternity leave

Wet Weather and Temporary Adjustments to Agri-environment Agreements

The RPA have recently announced that they will introduce temporary adjustments and easements within the Sustainable Farming Incentive, Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship Schemes to support farmers dealing with the impacts of severe weather in England. Adjustments will automatically apply and cover the period from 1st October 2023 to 31st July 2024, if the bad […]

Full Dispersal Sale

WebbPaton - Full Dispersal Sale

Please click here for the catalogue  Further details to follow. All enquires to Mark Webb or Pippa Wildern – 01793 842055, or email post@webbpaton.co.uk

WebbPaton LLP

We are very pleased to announce that as at 1st July 2023, Mark Webb has been joined by Libby Barron, Becky Farthing, Helen Wiltshire and George King as equity partners in WebbPaton LLP. The rest of the WebbPaton team, including Pippa Glanville and Pippa Wildern, remain with us as do all of our support team. […]

The Future of WebbPaton

WebbPaton - The Future of WebbPaton

Mark & George are announcing several changes at WebbPaton.  After over 30 years working happily and successfully together we are restructuring the way we do things. George is setting up a new business trading as Paton5 Ltd based near Oxford.  We are inviting all of the clients who have instructed us on larger potential development […]

WebbPaton’s 2023 Farm Business Update

Christmas is coming, and we are busy in the office getting ready for our 2023 Farm Business Updates: 23rd January – Chippenham Golf Club 25th January – Wellington Barn, Calne 30th & 31st January – Wrag Barn, Highworth 2nd February – Basset Down Golf Complex The invitations will be going out shortly, if you’d like […]

Lump Sum Exit Scheme

Earlier this week, the RPA announced guidance on the Lump Sum Exit Scheme which caters for those wishing to leave farming, either to retire or take up a different occupation. We expect applications to be between April and September 2022. More guidance about the scheme will be published before applications open. Eligible Applicants must have […]