News Archive

Passing her professional competence exams, Katie Kolita has qualified as a Chartered Surveyor with Davidson & Robertson, becoming the newest Chartered Surveyor in Dumfries & Galloway. Katie Kolita studied for her Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) whilst working with Davidson & Robertson, the rural surveyors and consultants with offices in Castle Douglas. Passing the assessment, [...]

D&R launch new utilities & infrastructure helpline for NFUS members Through our new Affinity Partnership with NFU Scotland, Davidson & Robertson will be supporting NFUS members when statutory undertakers like Scottish Power, Scottish Water, or Network Rail need to do work on their land. We’ll help members understand their rights and what can be claimed [...]

The move to green energy in Scotland will impact almost all farmers, even those whose land isn’t suited to turbines or solar panels. The National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) sets out guidance resulting in a general assumption in favour of planning being granted for the renewable developments that result in more green energy production which [...]

There is a strong push for change in how rural disputes are handled. Historically the disputes were most common between landlords and tenants. Today, the balance of conflicts has changed and there are now a growing number of issues as a result of the numerous infrastructure and energy projects in progress and in the pipeline. [...]

There has been an amnesty for developers wishing to cancel or reduce their grid capacity applications for grid connection projects that have stalled. It means grid capacity has become more readily available, leading to increased demand from developers for suitable sites – and more approaches to landlords and tenants. BESS storage sites remain a profitable [...]

Telecom masts on your land are an asset which should be managed to maximise your benefits from them. We have seen many examples where agreements have not been reviewed and income not accounted for, so we are urging landowners to reacquaint themselves with the lease terms. It may identify missed payments, highlight opportunities for future [...]

The huge amount of utility work planned will mean disruption for landowners and tenants. If a proposed project may affect your land, it is important to engage with your Agent at the outset to minimise the impact. Not everyone realises that the cost of engaging an agent is generally met by the utility company. The [...]

NFUS member Mr Robert Barr, from East Kinleith Farm, Currie engaged D&R to support the business during a Scottish Water project to install a new pipeline through their farm. The main issues faced have been damage to and loss of crops, poor reinstatement of both land and drainage, loss of yield from crops in subsequent [...]

Author: Derek Bathgate Davidson & Robertson (D&R) Director and lead on Renewables The Onshore Wind Sector Deal for Scotland is a deal between the Scottish Government and the onshore wind sector (the developers and stakeholders). It sets out the ambition for the next phase of onshore wind energy in Scotland. Both parties realised the need [...]

Meet your 2023/2024 CAAV Presidential Team L-R: Martin Hall (Senior Vice President, Malcolm Gale (National President), Julie Liddle (Junior Vice President) Congratulations to D&R’s Senior Director Martin Hall who was elected Senior Vice President of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) for 2023/2024 at their AGM in Oxford. Malcolm Gale takes on the role [...]

Authors: Chris Edmunds, Director and Nathaniel Walton, Graduate Surveyor Land with potential for development can carry a value of 20 times that of agricultural value, however realising this level of increased value depends on receiving the right promotion and guidance. Davidson & Robertson is currently involved with over 130 development sites across the business throughout [...]

Author: Sarah Bennett, D&R Associate, Castle Douglas Electricity networks across the country are undergoing a significant upgrade to ensure the grid can deal with the additional electricity being generated as part of the drive towards Net Zero. Construction of new pylon lines Electricity companies on both sides of the border have major construction works planned [...]

The current picture – a land sales perspective William Dalrymple, Davidson & Robertson Associate, is responsible for forestry and land sales across Scotland. There are larger companies that provide detailed land sales updates which we will reference, but this article provides a D&R specialist perspective, based on the work we carry out for clients and [...]

Author: Katie Kolita D&R Graduate Surveyor, Castle Douglas Many self-catering property owners and operators will by now be aware of the Short-Term Let Licencing Scheme.  However, official figures from the Public Registers show very few proprietors have materially got their licences in place and the 1st October deadline looms. Katie Kolita has been working with [...]

In the UK, the switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is accelerating rapidly, and the adoption of the National Planning Framework 4 Policy (NPF4) means Scotland actively promotes renewable energy and the government’s net zero target. It is no surprise that developers and operators are still approaching Scottish landowners seeking Battery Energy Storage [...]

The equestrian property market in Scotland remains strong, despite current fluctuating market uncertainties and increased mortgage rates. For anyone looking at equestrian properties, the list of key considerations is in double figures, but there are five that Lewis Anderson, Aberdeen-based Director at Davidson & Robertson (D&R) believes are core. Lewis Anderson has firsthand experience of [...]

For landowners and managers, natural capital appraisals will be an essential tool for the future, enabling businesses to harness the best opportunities for their land. Managing land for a whole range of purposes encompassing farming, forestry and a slew of environmental initiatives is about to hit a new level of complexity, bringing with it both [...]

The grand final of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC) Tug of War competition held on Saturday at the Royal Highland Show highlighted the passion, power and strength of the young farmers’ teams taking part. Sponsored by Davidson & Robertson, the men’s event was won by Lesmahagow-Young-Farmers and the ladies’ competition was won by [...]

Author: Keith Muir, D&R Associate Director and Forestry lead, Castle Douglas We have previously talked about Long-Term Forest Plans (LTFP) in relation to managing mature broadleaf woodlands in a structured and professional way, but what is an LTFP and why are they being discussed? Forest Plans are not new, they have been in existence as [...]

By Amy Laird, Senior Surveyor, Lanark The Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Scotland Bill, was passed on the 6th of October 2022 and became an act on the 27th October 2022. The key points of the bill are as follows: 1) Restricting landlords from increasing the amount of rent they can charge on residential tenancies, [...]

There is so much is going on in the renewables and energy marketplace, especially with governments’ legally binding targets for Net Zero on the horizon. Derek Bathgate, Director at Davidson & Robertson (D&R) reviews the four key components that are the main energy focus. In the UK, it is Scotland that leads the way with [...]

The Scottish Farmer front cover article (27th May 2023) highlights forestry’s failure to generate carbon credits. Commenting on the Woodland Carbon Code Model, Keith Muir, Head of Forestry at Davidson & Robertson asks, is it time to challenge the code? The Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) was originally designed to take out carbon from the atmosphere, [...]

Scotland is making a vast contribution to the UK’s strategy of lowering carbon emissions and driving forward the supply of green renewable energy.  To achieve this, large scale energy infrastructure projects are in the pipeline right across Scotland, particularly along the East Coast. These will have huge implications for communities, so it’s vital the public [...]

It is rare to see such an impressively well managed lowland farm come to the market in the Dumfriesshire lowlands area, but such a farm has just been launched in the Solway Firth Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Upper Mains Farm has been placed on the market (Thursday 4th May) at Offers Over £2.45 [...]

Duncan Glen has over thirty years’ experience in environmental land management for public and private sector clients and charitable organisations. He recently joined D&R from Strutt & Parker where he was Director of Environmental Land Management and will be based at the new Davidson & Robertson office in Northumberland. Growing up near Berwick, Duncan has [...]

Farmers and landowners affected by utility work are not always aware of the claims they can make says D&R Land Agent Ian McKnight, and being involved when a utility project is first announced can make a real difference. Infrastructure schemes, be they with utility companies, or road and rail, or renewable projects, are often complex [...]

By Graeme Ferguson, Director and Head of Rural & Agency Establishing a plan for farm or estate succession will ensure effective transfer of assets to the next generation, and a strong succession plan will help protect your business and your family. Capital taxes can be a significant financial drain on property owners, but many are [...]

By Niall Milner, Director and Head of Property & Forestry In an ever-changing world of agricultural policy, Brexit, global conflict and pandemic triggering recession in the UK the key principles to managing your estate still stand and will provide you with a robust business for an ever-changing rural market place. Diversify your income – as [...]

By Martin Hall, Senior Director My role as Junior Vice President of CAAV offers a broad perspective of the significant shift underway in the countryside. Farming is currently experiencing a generational change – probably the greatest change we have seen in 50 years – and there have never been so many potential paths to follow [...]

By Ian Austin, Director and Head of Utilities, Energy & Infrastructure “As the drive to double the size of Scotland’s Electric Vehicle (EV) charging network becomes more pressing, there are significant opportunities for landowners”, says Ian Austin, Director and Head of Utilities, Energy & Infrastructure at Davidson & Robertson. The UK government published its ‘Ten [...]

What is it and how will it affect your business? Offering self-catering holiday accommodation has become a key diversification strategy for many farmers and landowners across Scotland. Whether you have several cottages, or a single city flat, under new legislation a licence will be required to continue to operate. The Short-Term Let Licencing Scheme (“the [...]

Authors: Davidson & Robertson Director Lewis Anderson and Associate Will Dalrymple The rural landscape is facing change in 2023. Global market fluctuations mean companies are becoming more risk averse and at home, changing UK governments and leaders have created uncertainty in the agricultural industry and rural property market. The Russia/Ukraine conflict has caused major impact [...]

Davidson & Robertson have strengthened our team with the senior appointment of Graeme Ferguson as Director to lead the Rural and Agency department. Graeme joins D&R with over twenty years’ experience as a Chartered Surveyor and has a strong background in rural and commercial property. A RICS Registered Valuer, he has worked in the Highland’s [...]

Author Stuart Lobb, Associate Director Davidson & Robertson NPF4 assumptions could see the focus of adding value to land shifting from residential and commercial development towards renewable energy development. The Scottish Government recently set out its strategy to deliver and promote development that addresses the global climate emergency and nature crisis and achieve a net [...]

By Keith Muir, Head of Forestry at Davidson & Robertson There have been severe storms for the last three years – some quite recent, so you don’t have to travel far to see fallen trees. Landowners have a responsibility to maintain the trees on their land and they are liable if something goes wrong.  By [...]

Iona’s a Woman in Agriculture Graduate Surveyor Iona Smith, who is based in Davidson & Robertson’s Ayr office, is working towards her APC with the goal of becoming a Chartered Surveyor. But she is also a very busy lady away from the office. Iona grew up on an Ayrshire beef and sheep farm and was [...]

Keeping the power of renewables and energy storage in your hands  By Derek Bathgate, Director at Davidson & Robertson Ahead of the Low Carbon Agriculture 2023 Conference (7-8th February) at Stoneleigh, Derek Bathgate who leads on renewables and energy development for Davidson & Robertson has been reviewing how this dynamic market can benefit landowners and [...]

⭐ ⭐⭐NEW TO THE MARKET⭐ ⭐⭐ Riley Meadow presents a range of 7 modern new build homes for sale in the popular village of Monkhill that will be ready from February 2023. The development will consist of 4/5 bedroom detached houses and a rare opportunity to purchase a newbuild bungalow. The properties will lend themselves [...]

Defra release ELM Schemes update Defra have published further information and a report on their Environmental Land Management (ELM) Schemes.   Of particular interest are details of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) 2023 offer and an outline of how Countryside Stewardship (CS) will be taken forward in ELMs.   SFI launched in 2022 with three [...]

As new research highlights the benefit of protecting mature woodlands, we look at long-term woodland plans for mature woodland to ensure they are healthy and diverse. Keith Muir, Davidson & Robertson’s Head of Forestry, has been looking at new research which clearly vindicates what many foresters have known for years – mature woodlands are far [...]

DEFRA has announced the new Slurry Infrastructure Grant. Farmers in England can apply to DEFRA for the new Slurry Infrastructure Grant of between £25,000 and £250,000. This grant is open to dairy, beef, and pig farmers with slurry systems that do not have 6 months worth of covered storage capacity, based on existing stock numbers. [...]

With the start of the new year the there are changes to rates and payments for Countryside Stewardship in England. Capital Grants DEFRA have announced that the majority of Countryside Stewardship capital payments will increase from 5th January 2023, with rates up by an average of 48%. The increased rates will apply to capital agreements [...]

The equestrian market is something that Davidson and Robertson believes has growth potential – especially around Aberdeenshire where there is a large and active horse population. Lewis Anderson, director in charge of the Davidson and Robertson Rural and Agency team, is in the perfect place to advise on the equine property market. Lewis is a [...]

Keith Muir has joined Davidson & Robertson as Associate Director, heading an expanding forestry team. With growing interest in woodland, management and diversification in the forestry industry, directors at Davidson & Robertson – rural surveyors and consultants, looked to strengthen their forestry team with a senior appointment to meet the demands from clients. Keith Muir [...]

Davidson & Robertson says quality training pays dividends as two new Chartered Surveyors qualify. Two newly qualified Chartered Surveyors are celebrating their success with their mentors at Davidson & Robertson, rural surveyors and consultants with offices across Scotland. Debra Jarvie and Will Frazer have passed their Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) exams, qualifying as Chartered [...]

D&R helped hotel client harness the power of hydro from iconic waterfall.   Davidson and Robertson, the rural surveyors and consultants with offices in Cockermouth, has been supporting a hotel client on a unique hydro project. The hotel is set to reduce electricity running costs, enabling them to cut their carbon footprint further and make it [...]

Any infrastructure scheme is a complex project which often involves tricky and intricate negotiations frequently with long term implications. Being involved with clients when a project is first announced makes a huge difference – be that negotiating to adjust infrastructure routes, agreeing suitable mitigation measures and equipment, compensation and potentially including injurious affection (the negative [...]

The equine market is still very strong, and despite current fluctuating economic uncertainties, we have a number of equine properties coming to market in the coming months. In the last year D&R has successfully sold a range of rural and equestrian properties including: Equestrian property with fantastic facilities and access – prompt sale well in [...]

The Scottish Government has published a consultation on proposals for the Agricultural Bill, which will be introduced to parliament in 2023. This Bill will outline the overarching framework for future Scottish agricultural policy from which future legislation will be derived including details on the delivery of farm support schemes. The proposal summarizes how the Government [...]

As the well-publicised rises in the price of electricity for consumers and businesses are set to bite this autumn, is it time for tariff free small scale solar to be given serious consideration? Whilst there are no longer tariff payments for solar, the cost has tumbled since the introduction of the feed in tariff. A [...]

With much of the media discussion on energy prices and energy security, the battery energy storage system market is becoming increasingly more important and with battery storage operators seeing revenues continuing to grow, these operators and developers remain eager to secure ever more land rights for battery storage sites across Scotland and Northern England. The [...]

D&R has seen an increase in infrastructure and development projects affecting clients across Scotland and Northern England. From road and rail networks to renewables and electrical infrastructure investments, there are significant projects affecting landowners/occupiers now and several in the pipeline. From experience, we know that engaging in the process at the earliest possible stage can [...]

The rural property market in 2022 so far has provided an increased supply in comparison to 2020 and 2021. In regard to the rural residential market, areas near large urban settlements have seen an unprecedented amount of interest from people looking to relocate from built up areas. Flexible working patterns and the ease of working [...]

Welcome to the  2022 Graduate Team! Many congratulations to our six new Graduate Surveyors who began their career journey with us at the start of September. After a two-day induction at Head office, all of our Graduate Surveyors are settling into their new roles. They are located throughout our offices and are all eager to [...]

There are a growing number of infrastructure projects in Southern Scotland and Northern England that will affect land and property owners   Paul Robinson, Associate and Chartered Surveyor at Davidson & Robertson, has seen an increase in infrastructure and development projects affecting clients across northern England and southern Scotland. Paul joined Davidson & Robertson in [...]

This summer, Davidson & Robertson has announced a number of promotions, strengthening our team across Scotland and Northern England. In all, six promotions have been announced across the whole company. Alongside selective appointments, promotion, and growth from within has been a key strategy for the development of the D&R business. Chief Executive Linda Finlayson said [...]

Scottish farm for sale: It’s not often that an extensive livestock farm arrives on the market for sale with a castle ruin and a loch in the grounds, with the added bonus of an additional 362 acres of grace and favour grazing included. Carscreugh Farm, Glenluce, Wigtownshire DG8 0NU,  is a 1,666.57 acre stock farm that [...]

Cumbria Farmer Awards – a great night to showcase farming businesses Davidson & Robertson was delighted to sponsor the Cumbria Farmer Awards again this year at Greenhill Hotel, Wigton. The event was a great showcase of Cumbria Farming and was an excellent evening. Members from the D&R Cumbria office (Chris Edmunds, Paul Robinson and Abigail [...]

Thank goodness the weather for this summer’s show season is being kind – something of a blessing for organisers and show visitors alike. Great gate turnouts at local shows this year will really help committees secure their shows for the future. So many have struggled with the cancellation of their events for the past couple [...]

SAYFC – back in action with passion, style and strength in epic Tug of War Finals The grand final of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC) Tug of War competition held on Saturday at the Royal Highland Show, was another epic battle of passion, power and skill. Sponsored by Davidson & Robertson, the men’s [...]

SAYFC’s will be pulling for the team in the national Tug of War final    Vying for the top spot in the SAYFC Tug of War national finals at the Royal Highland Show this weekend will include title holders Ayr YFC ladies and Carluke YFC men’s tug of war teams. Saturday’s final will once again [...]

Show tickets – rules, terms and conditions 1.      The Cockermouth Show giveaway contest is open to registered users of Facebook, aged 18 or over. The competition will run from 18:00pm 18th July to Monday 25th July 4pm. The Turriff Show giveaway will run from 18.00 19th July to Wednesday 27th July. 2.     All information detailing [...]

SCOTTISH CHANGES IN TIMESCALES FOR NOTICES TO LEAVE It has been confirmed that following changes to residential letting legislation in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the notice periods for notices to leave have been reinstated to pre-covid timescales. Notices served between 7th April 2020 and 30th March 2022 required 3 or 6 months’ notice to [...]

Looking to your future: Business succession   Whether you want to safeguard the future of your business with a smooth transition to family, are planning for retirement or updating your will, it makes sense to understand your worth. Land and property values have increased significantly, so your assets are likely to be worth more too. Succession [...]

The changing landscape for agriculture has led to an increasing demand for clients looking for diversification and development opportunities. As a result, D&R has seen growth of land coming to market with development potential and an increasing number of clients looking for guidance on diversification and grant led projects for the future. We are currently [...]

Be prepared to plan properly for the future and be wary of knee jerk reactions It has never more been essential to have a holistic view of your business, to plan properly for the future – be that to make your farmland more profitable, making your diversifications and environmental best practices work harder for you, [...]

Solar Parks are Hot Property – and the wind is blowing SOLAR PARKS: We are seeing significant demand from Renewable Energy developers for land to develop solar parks.  If you have approximately 100ac of land (or more) with a southerly aspect, good irradiance* (usually close to the coast) and is close to an electricity grid [...]

New Chair for CAAV in Northumbria and Cumbria Chris Edmunds, Chartered Surveyor and Fellow of CAAV, became the new Chair of the Northumbria and Cumbria branch of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) at their 104th AGM. Founded in 1910, CAAV is the UK’s specialist professional body representing, briefing, and qualifying those who advise [...]

The changing landscape for agriculture has led to an increasing demand for clients looking for diversification and development opportunities. As a result, D&R has seen the growth of land coming to market with development potential and an increasing number of clients looking for guidance on diversification and grant led projects for the future. We are [...]

2021 was a year where the rural market was dominated by a huge demand which outstripped a restricted supply of properties available on the market. D&R’s dedicated Rural & Agency team handled 40 transactions with a combined value of over £25m during 2021. These ranged from 1 bedroom derelict cottages to large prime arable farms [...]

Growth in diversification leads to development at Davidson & Robertson. The changing landscape for agriculture has led to increasing demand for clients looking for diversification and development opportunities. As a result, rural surveyors Davidson and Robertson (D&R), has seen growth of land coming to market with development potential and an increasing number of clients looking for [...]

Putting a property on the market isn’t a quick process. Sellers should prepare their property for the sale in good time to create great sales marketing material, prevent sales falling through and reducing the time to completion when a buyer is found. Joe Bell, part of D&R’s Agency Team, sets out some top tips. Preparing [...]

In a competitive market where the supply of property is limited and there are high levels of demand, it is worth ensuring that you are in the best possible position to make an offer for a property. With the majority of properties in Scotland going to a Closing Date at which a number of offers [...]

The last 12 months has seen the further evolution of the market for forestry land and the emergence of a new sub-sector of the land market driven by carbon and environmental factors. Head of Rural & Agency George Hipwell explains the latest market developments and outlines the opportunities for landowners. Davidson & Robertson have been involved [...]

2021 was a year where the rural market was dominated by a huge demand which outstripped a restricted supply of properties available on the market. Davidson & Robertson’s new dedicated Rural Agency team handled 40 transactions with a combined value of over £25,000,000 during 2021. The transactions handled ranged from 1 bedroom derelict cottages to [...]

Davidson & Robertson’s expertise delivered record results for clients buying and selling equine and rural property in a buoyant market in 2021, something which Lewis Anderson, Director in D&R’s sales team, is keen to expand. Strong demand is expected to continue for Equine and Rural property as enquirers reassess their wishes and priorities post COVID. [...]

Properties with development potential have had a record number of buyers this year which we have seen in new build housing developments and residential conversions. Greenholme Steading is a new build development in the popular village of Corby Hill in north Cumbria. The development was brought to the market by D&R summer of 2021. The [...]

Employing a sales team with specialist skills and experience is vital for unlocking value. Joe Bell from the sales team explains how having a sales strategy and marketing expertise can maximise your properties value. D&R were instructed to sell Overgate at Mealsgate in West Cumbria –  a smallholding consisting of a listed farmhouse, traditional and [...]

New face joins Davidson & Robertson’s team to support farming resilience The significant changes to support for farming and land management have increased the level of enquiries at Davidson & Roberson (D&R), leading to the appointment of Abigail Wass as Assistant Land Agent. Abigail is working with farmers and landowners who have a range of [...]

Martin Hall, Senior Director of Davidson and Robertson, Scotland’s oldest firm of Valuers and Rural Consultants, has been appointed as a Recognised European Valuer (REV) by TEGOVA – the European Group of Valuers’ Association. Newest European Valuer, Martin Hall has over 30 years of experience as a Rural Surveyor and is ideally placed to provide [...]

The Dick Harrison Trust has appointed Martin Hall as a new Trustee following the retirement of well-known farmer and long serving Trustee, David Goldie. Martin Hall is Senior Director and Land Agent with Davidson & Robertson, a firm of rural surveyors and consultants that has offices across Scotland and Northern England. He was unanimously appointed [...]

Would you like to become a Chartered Forester? We’ve just opened up the process – do you know anyone who may be interested? At Davidson and Robertson, we offer a tailored Forestry Graduate Scheme, providing extensive training and support to all Graduates throughout their PME journey, on their way to becoming a Chartered Forester. This [...]

As the main sponsor of the two day Christmas shows and sales of cattle and sheep at the Caledonian Mart, Stirling, we were pleased to see so many old (and new) clients and it was great to see that trade that was up on last year for both the cattle and the sheep. George Hipwell, [...]

To mark 130 years as rural surveyors, two teams from Davidson & Robertson journeyed 130 miles across Scotland and Northern England. It was a chance to reconnect with colleagues and an opportunity for the many new faces to meet the rest of the team. The northern and southern teams each chose their own routes: Bo’ness [...]

2021 trends will still shape what happens in 2022  so here are some of the key trends we are asking buyers and sellers to consider – and we’ve also provided a summary of our sales and valuations for the year too: “Buyers should be readying their funds (either finance offer in principle, or cash) to [...]

Registration of title in the Land Register is now compulsory for all land sold in Scotland and the Scottish Government want all Scottish land to be registered by 2024. The majority of Scotland’s land has never been registered or still remains in the Sasine Register, with rural properties representing a very high proportion of unregistered land [...]

Over the course of 2021, the sale of Forebank of Canterland has been a hugely rewarding experience for George Hipwell, Director and Head of Rural & Agency, and fellow Director Lewis Anderson of the Aberdeen office. The farm, which centred around an imposing Grade A listed farmhouse, extensive traditional steading and 290 acres of mainly [...]

Back in 2020, it was confirmed that the A66 is to be improved between Scotch Corner and Penrith The A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project covers the length of the A66 between the M6 junction 40 at Penrith to the A1(M) junction 53 at Scotch Corner, which is approximately 50 miles long. The project involves dualling the [...]

Davidson & Robertson (D&R), the rural surveyors and consultants with offices across Scotland and Northern England, have strenghtened their Utilities, Energy and Infrastructure team with the appointment of Stuart Lobb as Associate Director.  Stuart joins D&R with some 19 years post qualification experience and is knowledgeable of both the English and Scottish property legal systems having worked throughout the UK. With a multi-disciplinary background in commercial and residential development, asset management and professional services, Stuart joins the [...]

  D&R sponsor Cumbria Farmer Awards and see the finest of Cumbria’s farming community gather in celebration Around 220 farmers, industry professionals and local dignitaries, celebrated the winners of the inaugural Cumbria Farmer Awards 2021 at a farming focused celebration held at The Greenhill Hotel, near Wigton on Friday night (1st October). The ceremony, which [...]

D&R are very proud to be sponsoring the ‘Supplier of the Year’ category at the inaugural Cumbria Farmer Awards which are taking place on Friday 1st October at the Greenhill Hotel, Wigton.   Congratulations in particular to the 3 finalists of this category: Aspatria Farmers Lely Center Longtown Carrs Billington Best of luck to all [...]

FARM RESILIENCE SCHEME  |  FARM BUSINESS REVIEW As you will no doubt be aware there are significant changes on the horizon for farm support in England over the next few years (7 years +). The Farm Resilience Scheme is a DEFRA funded project to allow farmers the chance to review the impacts the changes to [...]

It is with a great deal of sadness we report of the passing of our friend and colleague John Neil. John has been an important part of the firm since the two businesses joined up in 2010. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.

Welcome to the team! D&R have welcomed four new, fresh-faced Graduate Surveyors to the business who will now spend the next two years working towards their APC. Their induction took place over two days in our Edinburgh office where they also got the chance to meet some of our existing staff at a BBQ on [...]

New Director appointed in Aberdeen office Davidson & Robertson, the firm of Rural Surveyors and Consultants, has strengthened their Board of Directors with the appointment of Lewis Anderson, a Chartered Surveyor (MRICS) and member of the Institute of Agricultural Management (MIAgrM) with over twenty years’ experience. He is based at their Aberdeen office in Westhill. Lewis [...]

Davidson & Robertson (D&R) add to their team with a focus on the Castle Douglas office  D&R, Scotland’s longest standing firm of Rural Surveyors and Consultants who have offices across Scotland and Northern England, are set to significantly expand the team and service offering in their office in Castle Douglas in the Southwest of Scotland. D&R Director Ian Austin, who grew up on the family beef and [...]

Members of The Central Association for Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) Council elect Martin Hall to Executive Committee. The CAAV is the national specialist professional body representing, briefing and qualifying those acting and advising on agricultural and rural property and business matters across the United Kingdom. The CAAV is governed by its Council, supported by committees which [...]

An update from our Cockermouth office – recruiting now Davidson and Robertson have been adding value to land based businesses for 130 years by providing high quality independent advice and best service. Since opening in 2015, our Cockermouth office has seen and continues to experience considerable growth. Due to this growth, we are currently looking [...]

Davidson & Robertson (D&R) have strenghtened our senior team with the appointment of Alison Forrester Smith as Associate Director.  A qualified Chartered Surveyor with nearly 25 years experience, Alison has a wealth of knowledge managing property in the public and private sectors. Joining the D&R Property Management team, Alison will be focusing on commercial and residential portfolios for D&R clients based in Scotland.  Director and Head of Property and Forestry, Niall Milner, [...]

Discreet off market opportunity – diverse rural business in the Lakes Davidson & Robertson have been instructed to dispose of a diverse rural business within the Lake District National Park, Cumbria in a discreet, off-market sale. The property extends to approximately 147 acres (59.49 ha) or thereby and comprises of a livestock farm with modern [...]

Another great result for a longstanding D&R client! We have successfully identified and managed an opportunity to create 81 new homes on 12 acres of land at Stainburn, Workington. Through our knowledge of the local development market, D&R identified the opportunity, promoted it through the local plan, tendered the site and worked on behalf of [...]

For sale: Netherton Farm, South Ayrshire Offers over £1,650,000 An expansive, ring fenced livestock and arable farm with well-maintained steading and attractive 4-bedroom farmhouse has just come to market near Dalrymple in South Ayrshire.    New to market, Netherton Farm is already attracting interest from potential buyers registered with Davidson & Robertson (D&R). Will Dalrymple, [...]

Telecoms Turbulence   The Telecoms sector remains fraught. Site operators and infrastructure providers continue to take aggressive stances in their quest for new leases for existing masts at vastly reduced rents, through serving legal notices and threatening court action on landowners. The Court of Session (CoS) has now published its ruling on the appeal against the decision of the Lands [...]

Forebank of Canterland Farm, Marykirk, Aberdeenshire Offers over £2.7m An impressive 290 acre arable farm in Aberdeenshire with commanding Grade A listed farmhouse overlooking River North Esk Newly launched to the open market by Davidson & Robertson is the impressive Forebank of Canterland farm at Marykirk. An arable farm extending to approximately 290 acres with [...]

D&R Land Agent Will Frazer gives an update on how the pandemic is affecting access to the countryside. The Corona Virus pandemic has had many unanticipated side effects. One of them is that the countryside has seen unprecedented pressure from increased access. A cocktail of lockdowns, the furlough scheme and the free time this affords [...]

Davidson & Robertson celebrate 130 years serving rural businesses … and Martin Hall celebrates 30 years at D&R too. Martin Hall grew up on a farm near Cockermouth, Cumbria and joined Davidson & Robertson in 1991 as an Assistant Surveyor. Progressing through the ranks, he became a Partner in 2000 and is now our Senior [...]

Relinquishment & Assignation of 1991 Act Tenancies New legislation set out under The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016 came into force on 28 February 2021 and has sparked conversations amongst the tenanted sector. The legislation enables most tenants with a secure 91 Act tenancy to offer to relinquish their tenancy to their landlord. If the [...]

Despite the difficulties brought about by COVID-19 and the uncertainty over Brexit, forestry has remained strong, meaning it’s been a busy winter for the D&R forestry team; felling licences, harvesting, woodland creation applications, restocking, new tree planting and registering carbon projects. This winter we’ve harvested sites up to 20 hectares and planted sites up to [...]

The Telecoms sector remains fraught. Site operators and infrastructure providers continue to take aggressive stances in their quest for new leases for existing masts at vastly reduced rents, through serving legal notices and threatening court action on landowners. The recent DUNCAN case ruling has gone in favour of Scottish landowners but EE & H3G are [...]

The Energy sector is buoyant.  Developers are hungry to acquire land rights to enable energy projects of various types across Scotland and Northern England. Wind and solar farms, energy storage and grid balancing sites are the headline developments on the menu and there is a plethora of development companies seeking to invest in this growth [...]

As a firm of rural surveyors and consultants with a Cumbrian base, Davidson & Robertson has been accepted onto the NFU support panel which offers assistance to its members. We will provide rural surveying advice to NFU ‘Farmer & Grower’ members in Cumbria from our Cockermouth office. The NFU CallFirst service enables members to access [...]

Congratulations to D&R’s Steph Adams It was announced at SAAVA’s AGM, Scotland’s valuation association, that Steph Adams, a Chartered Surveyor at Davidson & Robertson and farmer’s daughter from the Scottish Borders, has topped the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers’ (CAAV) exams in Scotland. Steph gained an honours degree in Rural Business Management from SRUC Edinburgh [...]

Meeting demand for sales. At Davidson & Robertson, we have restructured our way of working to meet the demands of growing sales instructions. D&R has created a dedicated sales team that also welcomes a new sales specialist. George Hipwell D&R Director and Head of Rural & Agency said “We’ve seen a real increase in the [...]

New to market is a 260-acre plot of land at Dalchully that demonstrates the flexibility of marginal land with a variety of options, and broad appeal to various sectors. Just under 3 hours from Edinburgh and 50 miles from Inverness, this diverse block of land at Dalchully, Laggan, sits on the edge of the Cairngorms [...]

2020 rural market trends are significantly shaping the way for 2021 says George Hipwell, Director at Davidson. He predicts very competitive markets for rural sales right across the board – from rural estates and lifestyle homes, to forestry, farms and land once considered less profitable. The Covid-19 pandemic created a move to long-term working from [...]

Carbon trading is still new, but already we are seeing interest from landowners looking to plant new woodland and organisations keen to buy the carbon units to offset their environmental losses. As the trading of carbon credits is still a relatively new concept, it is important to seek professional guidance from the outset, both from [...]

Like many of your businesses, we at D&R have taken to the challenge of Covid-19 and restructured our own business. Firstly, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Linda Finlayson as CEO in October. Linda was previously our Chief Operating Officer. As part of this restructure, I become Senior Director and Robert Shearlaw will [...]

As timing and strategy for selling in 2021 are more important than ever, D&R is offering no-obligation, free appraisals to help clients assess their sale prospects. D&R Sales Director George Hipwell says demand for appraisals is on the rise because property and landowners have a growing number of options to consider. Land and property in [...]

For clients who have existing leases for telecoms masts on their land, a recent court ruling has big implications – especially if your tenant mast operator(s) is demanding a completely new lease, for far less rent. The Lands Tribunal for Scotland (LTS) ruled recently on the EE Ltd/Hutchison 3G Ltd v Duncan & Others case. [...]

Everyone has been talking this week about the new laws which will require all homes in Scotland to have interconnected ceiling mounted smoke and heat detectors and, where applicable, Co2 detectors with a 10-year age limit. Initially, a deadline was set by the Scottish Government to have all in place by Spring 2021 and many [...]

The Farmers Weekly asked us questions about how we saw the property market, so we thought we’d share our responses here too: What is the market like generally? It is doing well, with much the same market factors being material; land quality, acreage, quality of fixed equipment, land values in Scotland compared to the rest [...]

While there is currently reduced activity on the open market in Scotland, all the signs indicate a speedy bounce back now current restrictions are easing. Davidson & Robertson is progressing several new instructions, bringing to market a range of residential properties to let across Scotland, adopting new practices such as video tours and virtual viewings [...]

Reshaping lifestyle property market showing positive signs As lockdown eases, Rural Surveyors Davidson & Robertson has already seen increased activity in the property market – both for sales and lettings. It’s still early days to prove the theory that lifestyle property will be in greater demand, but current signs are promising. Life during lockdown: coping [...]

Life in lockdown reveals almost 25% are thinking of moving in the next couple of years Working from home without the stress of a commute and time to surf the internet has revealed that almost 25% of people are thinking of moving in the next two years – with a top ten wish list that [...]

Lifestyle properties in the Lakes and Northern England in demand after lockdown According to a recent survey from online mortgage broker Trussle, nearly a quarter of UK adults are considering relocating in the next couple of years.  As house hunting became a top lockdown pastime, the Lake District has been named as one of top [...]

A66 road improvements get the green light but how will it affect my land? Engage & act early. Mitigate impacts. Be prepared. The recent confirmation that the A66 is to be improved in places between Scotch Corner and Penrith comes after many years looking at this scheme. The proposed improvements are set to transform the [...]

Lockdown changes to work/life balance help reshape lifestyle property market The lifestyle property market could be set for change as more people realise they can work from home. The lockdown, aided by the digital age and ‘time on your hands’ has led some to reconsider their lifestyle and future property ambitions, cutting out the commute [...]

Tenant Amnesty: Updated headlines 14-5-20: Scottish Government confirmed a six-month extension to the Tenants Amnesty. Don’t let the grass grow – it’s time to act quickly Tenant farmers who have yet to notify their landlords of any improvements on their farms were set to lose out on compensation claims when their tenancy comes to an [...]

Utilities – working to protect your interests    When faced with utility companies needing to work on your land –  your agent’s costs are usually covered by the utility company. This means you have access to professional advice at an early stage, which can help reduce the hassle and stress when works are needed and [...]

Planning & Development – where will new homes come from? The need for housing – urban or rural – continues apace. A recent study identifying the need for 1 million homes in the UK confirms this. The last few years have seen housebuilding blossom again, although mostly by large scale plc housebuilders. So where will [...]

Cash in on climate change mitigation – new woodland unlocks cash for carbon Did you know that if you plant woodland now, or have done so recently, you can trade the carbon sequestration?  Registering your carbon units allows your new ecosystem service to become a financially viable environmental asset. So, as well as receiving grants [...]

  COVID -19 Statement In light of the extraordinary and ever-evolving global impact of Covid-19, I would like to share with you the measures we are taking to ensure we continue to operate effectively in the challenging weeks ahead. We understand the importance of minimising disruption to a business in the event of challenging times. [...]

Land registry. Have you considered a voluntary registration of your land in the Land Register? There are real benefits to be considered ahead of the 2024 deadline. The Scottish Government set an ambitious target of having 100% of Scotland’s land mass on its Land Register by 2024. Following the introduction of the Land Registration (Scotland) [...]

MOBILE MAST RENTAL INCOME. Demand for better mobile connectivity is nothing new, but with the rollout of 5G on the horizon, it’s more important than ever for landowners to know where they stand. There are likely to be rent reductions ahead – so landlords will need to negotiate. The Digital Economy Act 2017 became law [...]

D&R saw properties secure good interest in 2019 with strong offers received, averaging 28% over asking price for all properties sold. Last year the market saw the level of interest and speed of sale being determined by the quality of the property and its location with lifestyle properties being dominated by buyers seeking properties within [...]

Davidson & Robertson the firm of Rural Surveyors & Consultants with offices across Scotland and Northern England, has appointed a new Branch Manager in Castle Douglas. Colin Beattie joined the D&R team as Branch Manager in Castle Douglas, releasing D&R Director Derek Bathgate to focus on developing the D&R Ayr office. Brought up on a [...]

Davidson & Robertson walk the wall to raise funds for mental health campaign  Davidson & Robertson, Rural Surveyors across Scotland and Northern England have donated over £1,500 to their 2019 charity – the Mind Your Head campaign run by the Farm Safety Foundation. In 2018 The Farm Safety Foundation launched its inaugural #mindyourhead campaign, which [...]

Davidson & Robertson would like to congratulate Gillian Ferguson, George Forrest, Emma Kerr, Hannah Melville and Helena White who have all become qualified Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) this year. We are very proud of the hard work that our Graduates put in and we look forward to future success through our Graduate Training Programme.

We’d like to say thank you to everyone who took part in our survey this year, the response rate was very good, and your feedback has been invaluable. How do you see us? You said you feel we are approachable, professional, friendly, efficient and good at what we do. Thank you – that’s what we [...]

It’s fair to say there has never been a better time to review your assets – that includes looking at development opportunities to unlock your land value. Proactivity is the key to make things happen and getting involved in anything at an early stage gives you a better chance to look at wider issues and [...]

Forestry and timber update – November 2019 Timber Market Report Following an extended period of price rises and increased activity, both UK and foreign timber markets appear to be seeing a slight price reduction of between 10 – 20% on the headline figures reported in 2017/2018. This global slowdown has predominantly been caused by a [...]

D & R sales update: good interest and strong offers Director of D&R George Hipwell heads sales and valuations and has given an autumn update on sales. Overall and year to date, D&R has seen properties secure good interest with strong offers received, with offers averaging 28% over asking price. In the current market, the [...]

Necessity is the mother of invention. In recent years there has been a big drive to encourage businesses to diversify, consequently, there’s more business variety in our countryside than ever before. This is driven by numerous factors, but primarily the need to generate more income from farm assets. There is also the succession argument for [...]

We have renewable developers once again looking for viable sites to create solar farms in Scotland and Northern England. Developers are looking for sites of 200 acres plus, which are (ideally) flat, not at risk of flooding and clear of any cultural heritage constraints. Principle areas of interest lie along the following coastal areas: Newcastle [...]

New staff and commitment to homegrown surveyors During 2019, fourteen new people have joined our team across all disciplines and various branches. At our Staff Training Day this autumn, we visited Westfield Farm Park. It gave everyone a chance to meet up and see an excellent example of farm diversification, which included equestrian activities, fishing, [...]

D & R step into the ring at Cally Mart There was a positive buzz at Caledonian Marts on 1st August, when, rural surveyors and consultants – Davidson & Robertson (D&R), stepped into the ring for the first time. Officially launching our new partnership, the two businesses invited farmers and professionals along to their launch [...]

Forestry Minister has his feet on the ground in Northumberland to explore tree planting opportunities Forestry Minister, David Rutley MP, visited Northumberland on Friday 19th July, to meet Confor (Confederation of Forestry Industries), stakeholders aiming to improve low tree planting rates across England. The Minister heard first-hand about the barriers and frustrations faced by landowners [...]

On 1st July, Caledonian Marts established a new strategic link with Davidson & Robertson – Rural Surveyors and Consultants. D&R are providing a comprehensive range of property services for ‘Cally’ clients and will have a weekly presence at the auction. In the last 3 years Davidson & Robertson (D&R) has seen 60% growth in the [...]

The grand final of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC) Tug of War competition held on Saturday at the Royal Highland Show, was another epic battle of passion, power and skill. Sponsored by Davidson & Robertson, the men’s event was won by Carluke YFC and the ladies competition was won by Ayr YFC. There [...]

Davidson & Robertson (D&R) is working in partnership with NFU Scotland to run a FREE workshop to help their tenant farmers and landlords capitalise on the ‘Waygo’ Tenant Amnesty. The Tenant Amnesty started in June 2017, but the clock is ticking with less than 12 months to run. Many landlords and tenants have not taken [...]

For landlords and tenant farmers, NFU Scotland has issued an urgent reminder that the window of opportunity to make use of the ‘waygo’ amnesty is closing. The amnesty, which started in June 2017, allows landlords and tenants to rectify any outstanding issues around notification of tenants’ improvements which should qualify for compensation when the tenancy [...]

Vying for a place in the SAYFC Tug of War national finals, competitors will be #pullingfortheteam on 1st June when the regional heats take place across Scotland. The top teams go forward to the spectacular finals at the Royal Highland Show. Last year the grand finale was a very colourful event, with vibrant new tops introduced [...]

Big changes to how we can manage beaver in Scotland took place on the 1st May, this is a short summary on beaver and what measures are now in place. After a reintroduction trial in Knapdale and an unplanned influx in Angus, beaver are now prevalent throughout some areas of Scotland. We’ve had little reason to [...]

Joe Bell joins the Cockermouth office as a Graduate Surveyor. He has a BSc (Hons) degree in Estate Management from Northumbria University and a decade of experience as an Estate Agent, Valuer and Lettings Manager. Joe is currently involved in Forestry, Agency work and Utilities. Outside of work he helps on the family farm where [...]

Transformation is on the horizon for Scottish agriculture. Changes to trade and agricultural support will happen – regardless of the Brexit outcome.  It has never been more critical to review your business and assets to secure extra value income. We’re talking to several landowners who are looking to unlock land for potential development. Development goes [...]

Jenny Baillie, our Graduate Surveyor based at Linlithgow, is a member of the NFU Scotland Next Generation Committee and is also very involved with the SAYFC. “I’ve always been encouraged to think of the bigger picture – improving my business thinking from gaining guidance from peers, listening to industry leaders and those lobbying on our [...]

As successive governments continue to implement more rules around private residential lettings, land occupation and subsidy eligibility, the need to be properly advised has never been greater. D&R has seen increasing demand for Property Management services, winning several significant Property Management contracts for private and corporate estates in Scotland and Northern England. But it’s not all about size. [...]

In recent years there has been an increase in deals where landlords have bought out their tenants, or tenants have acquired the farm they tenanted. The registered pre-emptive right to buy now avoids a farm being sold from underneath a tenant. It has also become less politically acceptable in Scotland to be a large landowner. Views differ south [...]

We’re just completing a series of Spring seminars that created much discussion amongst our professional peers. With BREXIT uncertainty and changing farming times, making the most of your assets and succession planning are even more important. These were just two of the issues discussed in nine seminars held across Scotland and Northern England – but [...]

New Associate Director: Fergus Thomson, MRICS FAAV, Berwick Branch Manager has been promoted to Associate Director. Fergus joined us in 2013 and followed our structured graduate training programme. He became Branch Manager when we launched our Berwick office 2 years ago. Congratulations to Kirsten Tait – Edinburgh Kirsten Tait passed her Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Exams, [...]

The Scottish Young Farmers’ Tug Of War Competition, held annually at the Royal Highland Show, is a fantastic showcase that demonstrates the power of pulling together as a team. Last year we were delighted to sponsor the event for the first time. It was a very impressive and powerful event. All the teams displayed real [...]

News feature – Scottish Farmer Date: 7th March 2019         Demand for On-shore Wind Farm Sites is back The political appetite for renewable energy and on-shore wind farms is strong in Scotland and renewable energy developers have on-shore wind farm acquisition back in their sights. In Scotland, over 70% of electricity generated, comes from [...]

Training and development reap double dividends for D&R staff A duo of Chartered Surveyors at Davidson & Robertson (D&R) are celebrating qualifications as Fellows of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers – they are two of only seven in Scotland to qualify this year. The Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) is a specialist professional [...]

Following in the footsteps of generations at Davidson & Robertson (D&R), Orkney born Kirsten Tait has become the latest member of the team to qualify as a Chartered Surveyor. It comes in a year where D&R helps celebrate the 150th anniversary of the RICS (the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors). Davidson & Robertson’s strong links with [...]

2018 will be best remembered as the summer when the sun kept shining!  Whilst it brought challenges around watering livestock and irrigating crops, it brought an ease of working and good fettle.  Despite the huge uncertainties around Brexit – which develops as I write, the farming community has carried on in their Business-as-Usual style. Farmers [...]

In the last three years, Davidson & Robertson (D&R), Rural Surveyors and Consultants, has seen a 60% increase in the volume of sales. For 2018, D&R has seen a 31.5% growth in property sales year to date, compared to the whole of 2017. This includes whole farm units, forestry, lifestyle and equestrian properties. D&R Director [...]

Davidson & Robertson’s Linlithgow office is looking to recruit a qualified surveyor due to continued growth of the branch. The team is already 6 strong and is involved in a wide variety of rural professional work, including sales and agency, planning and development work, utility projects, landlord and tenant matters and estate management and consultancy [...]

Women in Agriculture – around 50% of our staff are women, it’s common sense and our ‘normal’ At D&R, we’ve always had a large proportion of women in professional roles, but that’s not the case across the agricultural sector. Several of our staff attended the Royal Highland Show “Women in Agriculture” breakfast seminar – the [...]

The Scottish Government has been highlighting the Tenant’s Amnesty – something we mentioned in a previous newsletter so we wanted to give you an update. D&R Director Ian Austin is the President of SAAVA (The Scottish Agricultural Arbiters & Valuers Association) this year and has proactively created a template to help tenants fill-in the important [...]

Much accommodation built in the late 20th Century for farm labourers is redundant for that purpose and is now let out. Whilst it can produce a good income stream,  there have been many changes to the residential let sector law and regulations in recent years. Of particular note is the introduction of the Private Residential Tenancy [...]

The general marketplace has been quieter in 2018, but D&R has seen 31.5% growth in property sales year to date, compared to the whole of 2017. This includes whole farm units, forestry, lifestyle and equestrian. There’s still a very buoyant market price performance, with most sales going to closing to a closing date and achieving offers [...]

Farmers outwith Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) are unlikely to appreciate the regulatory burden that these areas bring. For those affected the rules and regulations can create a headache unless you plan ahead There are rigidly enforced BPS deductions applied as penalties for non-compliance and potential problems with SEPA (Scottish Environmental Protection Agency). Taking professional advice [...]

Alison Aitken has taken over the role of Branch Manager from Niall Milner who is concentrating on client work and his new role as Finance Director.  Alison joined D&R in August 2015 and gained Fellowship of the CAAV last November where she was runner-up for the Talbot Posonby Prize for highest points in the UK [...]

Three of our D&R team graduated from Harper Adams University last month.  Iain Kyle, the firm’s Forestry Manager, graduated with an MSc in Forestry Management following 2 years of part time study.  He was the only Harper student to graduate from the course this year. Emma Homer, a Graduate Surveyor and also based at the [...]

Lorna Stewart BA (Hons) MSc MRICS FAAV, joins the team in Edinburgh. Lorna was bought up in the Highlands before moving to Aberdeen in 2010 to undertake an Honours Degree in Law and Business Management. Since then Lorna has gone on to complete a Master’s degree by Correspondence in Real Estate through the University College of [...]

Established in 1891, Davidson & Robertson (D&R) is Scotland’s oldest firm of Land Agents.  We are an innovative, energetic, friendly and expanding firm, with the highest professional reputation and a strong team culture.  We actively invest in our people and are committed to providing training and support to enable our staff to achieve their full [...]

Davidson & Robertson (D&R) have appointed three new Directors, expanding the breadth of skills across their Board and creating a stronger platform for developing staff and growing the business. The new Board Directors – Derek Bathgate, George Hipwell and Ian Austin are all internal promotions, recognised for their achievements, dynamism and expertise. Martin Hall, Managing [...]

When a shelter belt becomes a money belt Shelterbelts: A good market – where once, there was no market Timber prices are performing well, which is good news for those who have forestry investments – it’s also opened up a market for farmers to cash in on timber, farming their assets as well as their [...]

One of England’s largest water pipeline schemes is carving its way across the Cumbrian landscape, to enable a new water supply to feed the West Coast of Cumbria.  The project is understood to be affecting approximately 375 farmers/landowners with work in progress easy to spot from main roads in the area and from the top [...]

Opportunities for diversified income for landowners from energy storage are out there with improvements in battery and gas turbine technology, providing short term operating reserve (STOR) at times of peak demand from the grid. Battery storage sites consist of custom-built shipping containers. So long as they are located adjacent to, or near, 11kv or 33kv [...]