Fisher German magazine issue 5 Summer 2010

Summer 2010 | Issue 05

Property agency

Research report Farm case study Residential Agricultural

Invest in the future

Discover how owning land can contribute to the climate change agenda

Talents of CAD Computer Aided Design is at the forefront of projects

A graceful approach Belvoir Castle has a new lease of life

www.fishergerman.co.uk

news&views

Welcome to the Fisher German magazine The final outcome of the general election came as something of a surprise to the majority of voters and the new political landscape that will emerge is still under construction.

However, areas of key interest for Fisher German and our clients are already heading their way up the government’s political agenda. These include a high speed rail network which has huge implications for private property, the role of renewable energy and changes in capital gains tax. Fisher German focuses on and analyses these and other subjects in depth on a regular basis on our website and in our magazine. We will be watching the government’s recommendations closely and look forward to advising our clients on these and other issues.

As the new government settles in, it faces tough decisions on how to sustain economic recovery and tackle the national debt.

Wage increases will be limited, taxes will increase and the public sector will have to face up to spending cuts. In such difficult economic times the importance of quality strategic and technical advice is paramount and this can only be achieved through both market experience and training.

Fisher German invests heavily in training and development and this has been rewarded with outstanding exam results. We have a 95 per cent RICS graduate pass rate and a 94 per cent success rate for CAAV exams. This CAAV figure compares to a national average of just 66 per cent. Fisher German has also won the CAAV National Talbot Ponsonby Award for achieving the highest mark in exams across the country twice in the last three years.

We recently merged with Retford based charted surveyors Shuldham Calverley. The merger went very smoothly and our new colleagues are a great asset to Fisher German – read more about the new team on page 10.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue and would welcome your thoughts on the magazine.

Henry Sale & Andrew Jackson, managing partners

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

In this issue news & views

features

l New

linesearch.org 2 2

feed in tariffs tax relief l Planning permission approved l Grant application success l Fisher German merges with leading surveyors l Fisher German Priestner expands l Inheritance

12

14

16

Resarch shows aesthetically pleasing properties always achieve better prices

setting your sites high

Fisher German invests heavily in training and development”

The new feed in tariffs are failing to promote the use of anaerobic digestion

a graceful approach

28

The Duchess of Rutland is breathing new life into the Belvoir Estate

Enhancing the value of a property is key to achieving the best sales price

pretty convincing

24

Investing in land is a positive move for climate change

The housing market is looking forwards to more stable times

Adding value

energising support

a changing 26 climate for land

Property agency Firmer foundations

Discover how Linesearch.org is saving its members both time and money

18

More house buyers than ever before are keen to build their very own ‘grand design’

lie of the land 20

the talents of cad

30

Computer Aided Design plays a crucial role in many Fisher German projects

water, water everywhere

32

Research by the GWCT highlights the importance of keeping the UK’s waterways free from farming pollutants

Spotlight directory

34

What factors drive the agricultural property sector?

Contact details, location and services information of the Fisher German offices

The Fisher German magazine is intended to be an informative guide.

It should not be relied on as giving all advice needed to make decisions.

Fisher German LLP has tried to

secure accuracy and cannot accept liability for errors, fact or opinion. Fisher German magazine is published by Abstract Associates. www.abstractassociates.co.uk

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

news&views Renewable energy

FiT for purpose Favourable new tariffs mean that the time is ripe for farmers and landowners to invest in small scale wind projects to generate alternative income

Farmers and landowners should be keen to capitalise on new tariffs, launched in April this year, that promote the development of small scale wind turbines in the UK. “We’ve received hundreds of calls about the scheme as the Feed in Tariffs (FiTs) will potentially create an extremely good return on investment and generate additional revenue for farmers,” explains Mark Newton of Fisher German, a leading expert in wind energy. FiTs favour small scale wind projects ranging from 15-30 metres height to hub and provide a much higher payment per kWh compared with a large scale wind farm. “Farmers could make between 20 and 30 per cent on their investment,” says Mark.

“For example, a single 250kW turbine would typically cost about £400,000

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

to £500,000 to develop and could produce an income in excess of £100,000 a year, depending on the wind speed. This means that farmers and landowners could break even in around four to six years. Anyone building a wind turbine on their land will receive an additional payment of between 9.4p and 34.5p per kWh for turbines of up to 1.5 MW. In addition, planning permission is usually easier to obtain on smaller scale projects.”

The commercial viability and great return on investment means that farmers and landowners won’t be short of backers for the scheme.

“Although the initial development cost might seem daunting, the leading banks and many private investors have been contacting us to support the build of the turbines,” explains Mark. “The scheme not only allows farmers to produce electricity for themselves but they also have the option of producing and selling electricity back to the Grid. There has never been a better opportunity to invest in small scale wind energy, while delivering alternative green energy to the countryside.”

news&views Rural consultancy

*For further information on current tax implications and the project, contact David Merton on 01530 410806

diversification into tourism Landowners often find that holiday lets can be a great way to add value to their estates

For further information contact Mark Newton on 01858 411215

Finding a truly special holiday cottage can be difficult. However, Nurse’s Cottage, set in the 2,000 acre Tissington Estate in Derbyshire, is one location that is close to perfection.

The property has been developed and refurbished to an extremely high standard

by Sir Richard FitzHerbert, who inherited Tissington Estate in 1989, and David Merton of Fisher German, Sir Richard’s estate manager. The development is part of David and Sir Richard’s vision to consider alternative sources of revenue to help maintain the estate. David explains: “Our aim is to always add value. The holiday lets are capital assets* and also bring in additional, regular revenue. However, we are extremely careful to ensure that Tissington Village, which Sir Richard also owns and which is set on the estate, retains its community ethos.”

Sir Richard adds: “We only develop buildings that are no longer inhabited. It is vital that Tissington Village holds onto its traditional values and spirit.”

Sir Richard says that he finds dealing with planners very hard work. “I have

appreciated David’s tenacity with regards to this. It has allowed me to focus on the financial health of Tissington.”

David worked on the initial designs, refurbishment and ongoing development of both Nurse’s Cottage and another recently completed property, Hooper’s Barn. He says: “Nurse’s Cottage has an impressively high occupancy rate of around 90% and I am confident Hooper’s Barn and any future developments will be just as well occupied.”

Please visit Holiday Property Bond (www.hpb. co.uk), www.statelyholidaycottages.co.uk for lettings details or www.tissington-hall.com

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

news&views General practice

Inheritance tax relief Landowners and farmers must ensure all their trading activities are eligible for inheritance tax business property relief

Given the extent to which landowners are diversifying their trading activities, Fisher German advises property interests should be reviewed to ensure the chances of gaining inheritance tax business property relief (BPR) on all business assets are maximised.

A common source of extra income among diversified farms and mixed estates is letting former agricultural cottages. However, BPR does not apply to a business that is wholly or mainly for investment purposes, and letting residential property is regularly considered to be purely an investment activity.

So when does a diversified business become eligible for BPR? Thankfully, the landmark Farmer vs IRC case in 1999 set a precedent for assessing diversified businesses.

In this particular case, the subject was an in hand farm comprising of approximately 450 acres and 23 let properties. When Mr Farmer passed away, the IRC argued that the lettings were purely investment activities and did not qualify for BPR. However, the taxpayer’s representatives maintained that the lettings formed part of the overall farming business which did not consist mainly of making or holding investments.

In reaching a judgement the special commissioner

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

devised five tests to ascertain whether there was a single business entity to which BPR could be applied. The tests were as follows: 1. overall context test – an objective view of the business as a whole; 2. capital test – comparing the value of the assets used in the trading and investment sides of the business; 3. time spent test – comparing the time spent by employees and directors on the farming business and on managing the let properties; 4. turnover test – looking at the split between turnover from the farming activities and investment elements; and 5. profit test – looking at the net profit derived from the two different sides of the business.

The conclusion of the commissioner was that the farming and investment activities were run as a single business which did not consist mainly of making or holding investments and therefore BPR was available on all of the business assets.

Fisher German advises landowners in similar circumstances to review their estate with the five tests in mind and consider changing the structure of the business to ensure that they maximise their potential to obtain BPR on all of their business assets including let properties.

news&views commercial

Discover how Fisher German’s expertise has helped clients overturn planning permission refusals

Planning permission granted

A number of successful planning projects have been completed by Fisher German.

One project involved planning the redevelopment of a former school to convert two buildings to residential housing on the school’s former playground area.

Following two years of proactive lobbying of planning committee members, the planning officer’s initial recommendation for refusal was overturned by council members. The council unanimously agreed that the proposed plans preserved the conservation area and the school buildings.

In another project, planning permission was gained for a residential dwelling on the site of a redundant farm building in Cheshire, which had previously been refused permission on appeal. Fisher German marketed the site, met with planning officers and produced marketing and feasibility reports to achieve an overturn on the appeal decision.

For further information on planning please contact Kay Davies on 01530 410824

For further information please contact Kate Williams on 01858 411218

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

news&views Rural consultancy

The challenges of the farming industry continue to grow, and increasing numbers of farmers are looking to attract alternative forms of income to support their businesses. However, having an idea for diversification is one thing – sourcing the financial means to help develop the business is another.

Wendy and Richard Coney live in Honington near Grantham in Lincolnshire and were interested in creating additional income streams by utilising existent redundant farm buildings. It was decided that redeveloping some of the farm buildings into office units, self-catering accommodation and a local community/teaching room would be a good way to supplement the existing farm business. However, the renovation work was expected to cost up to £800,000 and while Wendy and Richard were aware that they might be eligible for a grant, they were not sure of how to access the funds.

They therefore approached James Goodson of Fisher German to help them pursue a grant from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

“After reviewing the plans, I felt that their redevelopment had a very good chance of winning a substantial grant from the RDPE. The fact that the redevelopment would also benefit the local community was very much in their favour,” explains James.

An Expression of Interest gauged East Midlands Development Agency’s (EMDA) appetite for the project and as the response from RDPE was good, a full application via EMDA was made.

EMDA approved a grant for just under 46% of the total project cost. “This was great news as Wendy and Richard can proceed with their redevelopment plans, securing alternative income that will complement the existing farm business,” concludes James.

After reviewing the plans, I felt that the development had a very good chance of winning a substantial grant from the RDPE”

For further information please contact James Goodson on 01636 642500

All mapped out

Private and institutional landowners often find that keeping property records up to date and accessible is a logistical nightmare, frequently resulting in many owners being unsure of their land boundaries and uncertain of exactly what they own, placing their interest at risk.

Fisher German is helping clients to digitally map their land holdings using management software tool,

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

news&views

EMDA application success Accessing grants can be problematic without professional advice

PEAR Mapping. The software allows owners to quickly visualise property and land, and enables the Fisher German estate team to produce accurate plans of land and property boundaries.

A simple click on any property or feature can bring up a range of documents instantly including scanned deeds, photographs, tenancy agreements, CAD drawings, telephone numbers and rents.

The software has proven invaluable for estate owners, especially now that the paper OS plans are increasingly becoming obsolete. Philip Hulland of Fisher German says the technology assists proactive

management helping landowners combat boundary disputes, plan acquisitions or disposals and access estate records with ease.

“This is a very intuitive and powerful tool. The ability to connect the map to your estate records and create a ‘live’ terrier with reporting functions has largely removed the need to access paper files. We are finding it especially useful for large, complex or dispersed land holdings and estates that are actively managed,” explains Philip.

For further information contact Philip Hulland on 01785 273992

Fisher GERMAN Magazine

news&views Rural consultancy

Company news

Two leading chartered surveyors merge

Joining forces

Retford based chartered surveyors and property consultants, Shuldham Calverley, has merged with Fisher German to create one progressive and forward thinking firm.

Established in 1989, Shuldham Calverley has an excellent reputation. The merger significantly strengthens Fisher German’s presence in Nottinghamshire with strong links being forged between the offices at Newark and Retford, creating the largest land agency firm in Nottinghamshire.

The union of the two companies will offer clients a broader range of services, a larger support network and a wider choice of solutions.

Henry Sale, joint managing partner of Fisher German, comments: “The response to the news from employees and clients has been extremely positive.

We are already seeing the benefits through additional services and new instructions.”

Tim Shuldham adds: “Being larger, Fisher German has a wider range of services which we will now be able to offer in our region. It is a very exciting time for us all.”

The three partners of Shuldham Calverley, Tim Shuldham, Ian Calverley and Kevin Benson have become partners of Fisher German and will continue to operate from the Retford office.

The new merger sees the firm expand to 11 offices and employee numbers approaching 250.

For further information please contact Henry Sale on 01858 410200

10 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

Fisher German Priestner expands Increasing demand for services has meant that the Fisher German Priestner office in Knutsford has recently recruited Kieron Havard and Ian Milligan to the team. Managing director, Claire Priestner, comments that the expansion will greatly complement the firm’s existing expertise. In addition to the recruitment drive, the team is also moving to bigger offices in Tatton Street. “We have outgrown our top floor office in 2 Royal Court and need more space,” comments Claire. “In addition to the utilities work we undertake by far one of the biggest opportunities in our expansion is in developing offshore wind farms.”

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Location, location, location

Anthony Mayell of Fisher German is helping The Stables farmshop and tearooms in Astwood Bank, Redditch, gain planning permission for its rapidly expanding retail requirements.

The Stables, a popular meeting point for both locals and visitors to the area, was set up in 2007 and has gone from strength to strength. The Stables is based on a farm that produces beef and lamb, for sale through the shop. Its success, however, means that additional planning consent is required for a butchery, and extended premises for a larger tearoom, car park and garden area. Anthony, who has worked with the farm and its commercial premises for nearly three years, is managing the planning application process.

He says that the attractive setting of The Stables, on the edge of Astwood Bank village, has been key to its popularity. “People have lunch and then buy produce from the shop. The strong link between The Stables and the farm really helps. In fact, 90% of the shop’s produce is sourced within a 30 mile radius which is very appealing.”

The application for planning is surging ahead but has faced problems. “The farm and The Stables are in greenbelt land,” explains Anthony. “Being on the edge of the village is an ideal location but presents challenges when applying for planning permission.”

The Stables tearooms, popular with locals and visitors alike

The strong link between The Stables and the farm really helps”

For further information contact Anthony Mayell on 01905 459426

Office expansion to meet growing utilities and offshore wind markets

Offshore windpower is still in its infancy compared to land based wind and it faces both technological and economic challenges due to tough weather conditions which can limit access for routine maintenance. The saline environment also means that more robust turbine parts are needed. However, explains Claire, the UK is a prime location to develop offshore windpower and it will play a key role in renewable energy projects, vital to meet the nation’s increasing demand for clean energy.

Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown says that offshore wind energy has put the UK ahead of other countries. “The offshore wind industry is at the heart of

the UK economy’s shift to low carbon and could be worth £75bn and support up to 70,000 jobs by 2020,” he explains.

Fisher German Priestner is also considering helping clients to site wind farms further offshore. “Farms sited further offshore have many advantages,” says Claire.

“Wind speeds tend to be higher and the wind is steadier. This means that turbines built further offshore should capture more wind energy, we may even see some of these being built on floating platforms.”

For further information contact Claire Priestner on 01565 757980

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 11

Research

Firmer foundations Although still facing challenges, Stuart Flint believes that the property market is looking forwards to more stable times

T

he likely fortunes of the residential and agricultural property markets are still the subject of intense debate. They have been incredibly challenging since 2008, struggling in the sea of economic recession, and have been characterised by falling house prices and a worrying level of inactivity in virtually all residential sectors.

While the markets may not be exactly running down the road to recovery, it is highly unlikely that they will go into reverse again this year. The residential property market rarely stands still and the first quarter of 2010 saw the return of buoyant times to specific areas, particularly London and the Home Counties.

Bricks and mortar are now being viewed favourably over other investments as confidence returns to the property market.

However, 2010 is unlikely to be very dynamic as many sellers are still lethargic and the majority of buyers are still cautious.

Looking ahead renewed optimism in 2010 will be tempered by several key factors: l economic and political uncertainties; l unemployment worries; l fears of higher taxation; l prolonged mortgage rationing; and l inflationary pressures and interest rate rises.

Marketing source of buyers

36%

39% 3%

5%

6% 11%

Bricks and mortar are now being viewed favourably over other investments” Demand and supply

There is a pent up demand for houses in the middle and upper ends of the market. In the first five months of 2010 Fisher German registered almost three times as many buyers as during the same period in 2009. However, although limited stock is seriously restricting marketing activity, there has been a marked increase in supply for the spring and summer. Arguably, from a financial perspective, this is the best time for people to move if they are upsizing.

Those intent on downsizing have been dormant for well over a year. However, continued upkeep worries and the prospects of inheritance tax changes are persuading some of these vendors to market their homes.

House prices – sustainable stability?

In 2009 prices plummeted – generally between 20% and 30% depending upon location and other factors. The modest uplift in prices in the early part of 2010 was a reaction to the widespread belief that values had bottomed out.

While some commentators are predicting a further dip in prices this year, Fisher German believes that this is highly unlikely. There is more confidence in the market and there are too many fresh purchasers chasing too few available properties.

Our research shows that most houses have seen a price recovery of between 4-6% from the bottom prices of last year and we predict a further 2-3% growth during the remainder of 2010.

However, there are exceptions that will buck the trend. Out of the

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ordinary properties will sell for very good money and often quickly which can distort the view of the market as they leave less exceptional properties in their wake. We are currently advising many clients on enhancement strategies when planning their sales – relatively minor cosmetic improvements can often create dramatic price rises.

Farms and estates – bucking the trend

There are significant geographical variations in land prices, with demand leading to several sales of £8,000 per acre in a wide variety of locations. There is still a great shortage of both commercial and residential farms on the market.

An abundance of ‘lifestyle’ purchasers are looking for substantial residences with a range of buildings and the few estates offered this year will be eagerly contested by a wealthy target audience.

Demand for investment farms has not waned with some recent results producing a yield as low as 1.5%.

Supply is likely to remain thin and demand strong in this market sector. Purchasers and vendors need to assess their taxation positions with regards to the implications of the agricultural property relief and potential changes to capital gains tax. This may advance some sale plans and bring a little more liquidity to this sector.

For further information contact Stuart Flint on 07501 720422 or email stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk

property agency

Relatively minor cosmetic improvements can often create dramatic price rises� internet other office visit advertising for sale board Fisher German mailing list

Geographical source of buyers

35% 40%

1% 18%

6%

international London & SE remainder of UK local (within 10 miles) regional (same/next county)

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 13

property agency

Farm case study

Adding value before you sell Enhancing the value of a property is key to achieving the best sales price. Stephen Rice and Robert Russell report

D

ucksworth Farm is farmed today as an arable farm, however, some 30 years ago it was mixed dairy and arable.

The farm buildings are a mix of modern buildings used by the arable operation and an attractive range of traditional buildings previously used by the dairy. The traditional buildings have mainly been used for storage of some farm machinery since the client, John Archer, started farming about 30 years ago. The arable farming has been contracted out during recent years and in 2006 John decided to sell the farm and retire.

Professional advice and rationale

To enhance the value of the traditional buildings and, therefore, of the whole property, it was necessary to get planning permission.

Stephen Rice, from Fisher German, was asked to advise on a number of different options. National, regional and local planning policies encourage farmers to convert redundant agricultural buildings into a use that encourages employment such as offices, workshops or low cost storage.

If the client is intending to sell the property the enhancement in capital value is important and conversion to residential use enhances this value significantly more than conversion to commercial use.

Stephen produced a series of investment appraisals for the client to consider and also set out the issues that would have to be dealt with if permission for residential use was to be obtained.

The client opted for the more challenging route that would deliver the highest capital value.

The planning challenge

It is crucial to establish a good working relationship with the Local Planning Authority (LPA) planning officers when preparing a planning application that is not entirely compliant with policy. Contact was made at a very early stage with the LPA and the County Council Highways Authority, both of whom would be critical in determining the application. Meetings were held on site about the proposal and why the residential option was to be favoured over the employment options.

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Detailed designs were prepared and a comprehensive planning application was then submitted. A delegated decision to grant planning permission for three residential dwellings was obtained.

Marketing and sale of the property

The Banbury office was instructed to market and sell the property which is offered for sale as a whole or in six lots. As the property is not a straight forward sale, ie, it is neither a pure farm or development site, Stephen and Robert have given a lot of consideration to pricing, lotting and advertising to maximise its potential purchase audience.

The property is currently being offered for sale with a guide price of ÂŁ2.65m as a whole or in six lots.

The client’s view

At the time of going to press the property sales team are negotiating the sale. John is fully confident that the property will sell and is happy to leave the negotiations to the professionals. John says: “It had been clear

property agency

Stephen provided me with a range of alternatives which were fully costed with guidance as to how difficult or successful they were likely to be” to me for some time that I really needed to obtain some form of planning permission on the buildings to enhance the value of my property before selling. I had spoken to several agents who had all tried to encourage me down one particular route which suited their particular advice. However, Stephen provided me with a range of alternatives which were fully costed with guidance as to how difficult or successful they were likely to be.”

“Robert Russell and Matthew Allen are committed to selling the property for the highest value they can and I am very confident that they will deal with the sale successfully.

“Fisher German provides all of the services I require including planning advice, preparing the detailed drawings and advising me on the property value and the best way to market it. I have been thoroughly satisfied with the service that they have provided.”

For more information contact Stephen Rice on 01295 226297 or email stephen.rice@fishergerman.co.uk

manor farm, gaydon

Sustrud min henis delenim dunt la faci tin velesse nissenis nulputat, quamet wisi. Elimin henis delenim dunt la faci tin velesse nissenis nulputat, quamet wisi. features: Reception hall; drawing room; morning room; dining room; billiard room; family kitchen; cellars; domestic offices; superb master suite; 5 further bedrooms (2 with bathrooms); first floor reception room; 2 further bathrooms; delightful formal and informal gardens.

£2,200,000 Contact: Banbury office Telephone: 01295 271 555 Email: banbury@fishergerman.co.uk

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 15

property agency Corner House, Slapton, near Towcester. For sale through the Banbury office, guide price £750,000

We have ascertained that good looks and first impressions rank as high as location and setting in the list of important search criteria”

Residential

Pretty convincing Aesthetically pleasing properties always achieve better prices, says Stuart Flint

I

t may seem obvious to state that pretty houses sell better than those with more ordinary looks, but our research shows that the difference may be more dramatic than initially suspected. The health of the market also has a significant effect on the gap in sale performance.

The more visually appealing a residential property is, the more potential purchasers it attracts. While numbers are hard to predict, house hunters can be very impulsive, particularly those searching on the internet where appealing images can have a huge impact. Client surveys have shown us that good looks and first impressions rank as high as location and setting in the list of important search criteria, while the number of bedrooms and land area lag someway behind.

Whenever pretty properties are launched they receive more calls, more web hits and more viewings. Our research suggests that a beautiful house is likely to achieve a premium price of 10-15% over a less attractive home of identical specification.

However, in a difficult market the margins may be even greater. While buyers become more fickle and more price sensitive they find it easier to forgive certain faults if a property has a pleasing exterior. Generally, potential purchasers can envisage and plan an interior refurbishment based on their own designs, although this is not the case with external modifications. Turning an unappealing exterior into an alluring one takes great vision and architectural expertise and is often too great a leap of faith.

So, if pretty houses sell more easily, for greater money and are more recession proof, can potential vendors enhance a property’s appearance without substantially redeveloping a property? Stuart Flint, head of residential agency, believes that even houses with virtually no architectural appeal can be helped significantly to be more enticing and boost value.

“The approach and the gardens make an enormous difference,” comments Stuart. “Well planted, carefully maintained grounds make a huge first impression. If a house has an unattractive elevation, climbing foliage can be a saviour and some strong architectural plants in the foreground draw the eye very well. Take advice early, then we can guide how to undertake profitable enhancement within achievable timescales.”

Good marketing can make a dramatic difference to demand when selling. “If the house is pretty, first rate marketing will capitalise on the good looks; if it is ugly then careful marketing will focus on other selling points and smoke screen the visual disadvantages,” explains Stuart.

For futher information please contact Stuart Flint on 07501 720422 or email stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk

16 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

Three Bears Cottage, Pipewell, Northamptonshire.

The enchanting appearance of this delightful cottage produced huge numbers of calls, despite its tiny proportions. After 28 viewings in two weeks a sale was concluded very close to the guide of £230,000

The Firs, Drakes Broughton, Worcestershire. The property attracted almost 60 viewings. Steep competition meant that the auction guide of £325,000 lead to a sale in excess of £400,000

manor farm, gaydon

Sustrud min henis delenim dunt la faci tin velesse nissenis nulputat, quamet wisi. Elimin henis delenim dunt la faci tin velesse nissenis nulputat, quamet wisi.

Westside Mill, Hulme End, Peak District.

This beautiful farmhouse, priced at £950,000, has featured in numerous national features which has boosted its marketing

features: Reception hall; drawing room; morning room; dining room; billiard room; family kitchen; cellars; domestic offices; superb master suite; 5 further bedrooms (2 with bathrooms); first floor reception room; 2 further bathrooms; delightful formal and informal gardens.

81 Main St,

£2,200,000 Normanton on Soar, Leicestershire.

On theoffice market for £395,000, huge Contact: Banbury interest saw271 a sale in excess of £450,000 Telephone: 01295 555 Email: banbury@fishergerman.co.uk

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 17

property agency Residential

Setting your sites high House buyers at the middle and upper end of the market are increasingly keen to build their very own ‘grand design’. Stuart Flint examines why

Dumbledown, Derbyshire. Planning permission obtained by Fisher German planning department, property marketed by the Ashby de la Zouch office

The media Influence

The profusion of home search, house development and interior design television programmes has fuelled the aspirations of people to attempt projects they may have previously not even considered. Television coverage highlights the glamorous side of constructing your own home, while rows of house design publications entice people’s creative interests.

Future proofing

Ensuring that a period house does not become obsolete in an age of ever emerging technology and expanding lifestyle choices is a formidable task. The design and construction of a tailor made house ensures the longevity and adaptability of the home. Much emphasis is always placed on high tech infrastructure with advanced networking providing countless family and office communication solutions. The sky is the limit where these projects are concerned but most will need multi faceted wiring installations for a variety of functions including multi media access points and security/surveillance systems.

18 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

Eco friendly awareness

The interest in eco builds has increased dramatically in recent years. Before the turn of the century solar panels were somewhat of an unknown quantity for the majority of house purchasers, but since then there has been a huge increase in climate change awareness and the understanding of renewable energy. Many buyers have discarded thoughts of being the custodian of vast, energy inefficient period houses and covet a high performance modern home with admirable environmental credentials.

These purchasers tend Construction on true greenfield sites remains to take a medium to very difficult to achieve, brownfield less so long term view when but with really good opportunities like gold developing their own dust in many areas. Nevertheless, PPS7 that homes, looking at sets out the government’s planning policy for everything from ground rural areas does open the door for ‘isolated source heat pumps and new houses in the countryside’ where ‘the water conservation exceptional quality and innovative nature of plumbing to domestic the design’ may justify planning permission wind turbines and solar (see Dumbledown in Derbyshire, above). photovoltaics.

Supportive planning policy

property agency

Case study 2 Property: Myriad, Nr Great Glen, Leicestershire Project: A 2.23 acre site with lovely rural surroundings.

Planning consent for an exceptional contemporary house of about 6,670 sq ft.

Status: For sale through the Market Harborough office, guide price £400,000.

Case study 3 Property: Jeddah’s Paddock, Adderbury, Oxfordshire manor farm, gaydon

Sustrud min henis delenim dunt la faci tin velesse

Case study 1 Property: The Old Walled Garden, Cottesbrooke, Northamptonshire Project: A 0.57 acre village development site with planning permission for a 4,413 sq ft property.

nissenis nulputat, quamet wisi. on Elimin henis Project: An existing 4 bedroom bungalow a 3.4 delenimsite. dunt la faci tin velesse nissenis nulputat, acre edge of village Permission for demolition and quamet wisi. construction of a handsome traditional house, circa features: Reception hall; drawing room; morning 5,500 sq ft. room; dining room; billiard room; family kitchen; cellars; domestic offices; superb master suite; 5 Status: For salefurther in a Fisher German collective auction bedrooms (2 with bathrooms); first floor through the Banbury office, £600,000 - £675,000. reception room;guide 2 further bathrooms; delightful formal and informal gardens.

£2,200,000

Contact: Banbury office For further information please contact Stuart Flint on 07501 720422 or email stuart.flint@fishergerman.co.uk Telephone: 01295 271 555

Email: banbury@fishergerman.co.uk

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 19

Agricultural

The lie of the land

The summer looks set to provide a boost to the farmland market. Robert Hurst looks at the factors that drive the agricultural property sector

T

here is much debate as to whether agricultural land values will continue to increase, perhaps reaching ÂŁ10,000 an acre within five years. The recession and crisis in the financial markets has affected the market since its peak in June 2008. Land is still in short supply and foreign buyers from Europe and Ireland, who had been instrumental in pushing prices up, have all but disappeared from the market.

Lifestyle buyers, whose predominant interest in the market is the attractive residential farms, have also been less active due to reduced incomes and a weakening of the residential sector.

However, non-farming investors looking for long term growth or planning to take advantage of agricultural property relief from inheritance tax are playing a part in the market’s fortunes. And while foreign buyers, those searching for lifestyle solutions and investors come and go, commercial farmland is always underpinned by the UK farmer and confidence in the agricultural sector.

20 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

property agency In 2009, the supply of land coming to the market fell considerably from the previous year and prices regained the falls of the second half of 2008. This trend has continued into 2010.

The larger commercial farms remain in strong demand and, in general, the market for residential and amenity farms is weaker.

The results of sales of bare land blocks show very wide disparity in prices with up to 50% variation for similar quality land in different locations and very much dependent on the strength of the local farmers.

Whilst farmers are facing the challenges of greater volatility in product prices and costs of inputs there is also increased confidence in the sector. Interest rates will at some stage rise and while borrowing remains at an affordable level farmers are taking long term strategic decisions to expand their land holdings. The poor returns in other property sectors have also encouraged investors to look at agriculture to provide stability and long term growth.

Although more farms have come to the market during the spring and will continue to do so in early summer the long term trend of a tight supply will continue. However, demand will remain strong for the larger commercial farms and will start to improve for the residential farms as economic conditions recover.

At Fisher German we are currently experiencing increased activity in the market throughout our network of offices. Thame office is offering an interesting package at Grange Farm, Towersey. The 125 acres of grass and arable is creating strong interest from local farmers but with a derelict Grade II listed house and traditional buildings ripe for renovation, developers will be pushing hard.

The Stafford office has some exciting properties including a 475 acre farm enjoying an elevated position close to Stafford with 386 acres of croppable land and 90 acres of pastures and meadows plus farmhouse, cottages and buildings. The 114 acres in the

Highfields at Adstone, Northamptonshire, guide price of £3.75m

The poor returns in other property sectors have also encouraged investors to look at agriculture” National Forest, South Derbyshire is expected to generate interest from farmers and speculators as the land is close to existing housing allocations and the 110 acres at North of Yoxall where the house needs complete renovation following fire damage should also prove popular.

Several parcels being handled by the Banbury office have recently attracted interest from investors and speculators, including 48 acres in Hertfordshire currently within the greenbelt which was recently sold for over £16,000 an acre. The 230 acres in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, which was offered for sale in six lots attracted interest from both farmers and investors with the investors coming out on top taking the whole at just under the guide price of £2.65m.

A test for the residential farm market will be Highfields at Adstone, Northamptonshire, a mini estate comprising a stone house with four reception rooms and seven bedrooms, cottage and extensive equestrian facilities set in 100 acres. This is offered for sale with a guide price of £3.75m as a whole. Ashby de la Zouch office has a number of mainly grassland, farms in Derbyshire in an area often influenced by purchasers with non-farming money. These include 124 acres near Ashbourne with buildings and planning consent for a three bedroomed house subject to an agricultural occupancy condition, 116 acres at Riddings with planning consent for a mixed use equestrian centre and 114 acres in the Peak District National Park.

At Fisher German we believe that the market will continue to strengthen with a steady hardening of values over the next two years without the escalating of prices experienced in the period 2005 to 2008.

The Holt, Middleton Cheney.

Guide price of £575,000

For further information please contact Robert Hurst on 01636 642504 or email robert.hurst@fishergerman.co.uk

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 21

feature | estates

Underground work can be a risky and expensive business. However, Linesearch.org can save members both time and money

22 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

feature | utilities and infrastructure

Linesearch.org will enable all enquirers to identify our members’ infrastructure – quickly, cost effectively and with minimum effect on the environment”

I

ncreasingly rigorous health and safety standards for excavation and development work and a sharper focus on environmentally friendly policies has led to apparatus owners looking for online solutions to avoid expensive and preventable accidents.

Linesearch.org, Fisher German’s online utility search facility, proved highly successful at providing this information both effectively and efficiently and is experiencing a substantial uptake in membership and usage.

Launched in 2003, Linesearch.org gives third party enquirers information about member apparatus above and below ground which could affect any engineering, project or building work planned on the land. Clare Phillipson, who is based at Fisher German’s Ashby de la Zouch office, and specialises in the management, promotion and construction of linear apparatus, says that even she has been surprised by the level of interest in Linesearch.org. “We always knew what an asset the site was, but it has exceeded even our expectations,” she admits.

Enquiries through Linesearch.org have rocketed over the past two years and now number over 3,300 a day as the facility is playing a key role in most third parties planned/unplanned excavation and development work processes. Finding out what lies

underground can be a laborious and time consuming task, however, the consequences of not checking before starting to dig can be both dangerous and costly. For example, if a firm cuts into a high voltage electricity cable or a high pressure gas pipeline, the potential damage in terms of safety and expense is enormous.

“It’s incredibly important people understand that it is vital to conduct a search before they start any works.

Linesearch.org can help firms avoid unnecessary costs and potential problems by checking for possible pipes or cables in the area where they want to work,” explains Clare.

The site, which was launched with just four members, now boasts 26 with more companies poised to join this year. These new members are expected from new membership sectors of electricity, gas, water and telecoms – outside the original membership of high pressure hydrocarbon pipelines.

One of the founding member companies of Linesearch.org says that the facility is recognised as best industry practice and has been fundamental in the prevention of third party damage to pipe work that his company operates. He adds that the savings that the facility has afforded his business have been considerable. “Before we became a member of Linesearch.org we could see the number of paper enquiries about underground apparatus rising exponentially and, despite the fact that 90% of these would not be affected, they still had to be processed. As the checking process was a manual task, the increasing numbers of enquiries increased the possibility of error in that process.

Because Linesearch.org puts the onus on accuracy of enquiry back onto the enquirer and the response is automated, the potential for mistakes is minimised.”

For further information contact Clare Phillipson on 01530 410813 or email clare.phillipson@fishergerman.co.uk

Linesearch.org has an average of 3,300 hits every day and March saw a record 72,614 enquiries. Clare attributes the facility’s increasing popularity among apparatus owners and operators to the fact that no other site offers an initial single point of contact for utility owners.

“It’s available 24/7, free to enquirers and, as it’s online, it’s a cost effective and environmentally friendly way of carrying out a preliminary service search. There is no multiple correspondence to deal with,” she advises.

Members of Linesearch.org only receive relevant ‘inside the zone’ enquiries. “We only focus attention on potential enquiries that could affect members’ apparatus,” explains Clare. “This means that we can use our staff to provide a more effective and better focused service.”

Steve Wing, former Head of the Gas and Pipeline Unit in the Hazardous Installations Division within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), supports the facility. He said: “HSE looks forward to other pipeline operators joining Linesearch.org so making it even easier for those carrying out excavations or work near a pipeline to get the information they need to safely plan and carry out their work.”

Enquirers and members can also look forward to further improvements in service from the facility as the site tightens its infrastructure integrity and safety. “Linesearch.org will enable all enquirers to identify our members’ infrastructure – but even more quickly, cost effectively and with minimum effect on the environment,” adds Clare. l

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 23

feature | renewable energy

Energising support Farmers and landowners who install energy generating technologies can now claim payments for the energy they produce. However, David Kinnersley is concerned about the lack of support for anaerobic digestion

F

ollowing the introduction of the Department for Energy and Climate Change’s (DECC) new Feed in Tariffs (FiT), Fisher German is concerned that the scheme lacks sufficient incentive to invest in many on farm anaerobic digestion (AD) plants.

While the scheme brings good news for wind and solar energy providers with a typical 2.5kW well sited solar pv installation offering a reward of up to £900pa and £140 saving on an annual electricity bill, the tariff levels for AD technology do not give equivalent returns.

The tariff for small scale anaerobic digestion (AD) plants is 9p per kWh for systems over 500 kW of installed capacity, and 11.5p per kWh for smaller projects under 500 kW. This offers little additional incentive over the sale of Renewables Obligation Certificates and remains below the investment returns available for solar PV and wind technologies.

David Kinnersley, of Fisher German, believes the lack of the previous government’s support for this particular

24 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

technology may have a knock on effect on the take up of AD by farmers and landowners and hopes that the current government acts to improve the situation.

“The FiT scheme is a good start for solar and wind power but the levels for AD will make it more difficult to achieve the government’s energy goals,” says David, “AD is still attractive for certain farmers and estate owners with economic access to suitable feedstocks, whether energy crops or waste, land for the digestate and ideally a use for the heat but the tariffs aren’t sufficient to really encourage AD development on a wider scale and the investors this attracts. It is a higher risk proposition due to the greater capital cost and management requirements than the other technologies and this should have been reflected in the FiT levels.”

The UK currently receives around 5.5% of electricity from renewable sources and that will need to increase to around 30% to meet the 15% 2020 target set for all energy. Current

feature | renewable energy modelling shows that small scale renewable installations could meet 2% of electricity demand by 2020.

The lower support levels for AD comes despite the DECC’s advice to the government that the UK’s 2020 targets cannot be met without a growth in the amount of farm based AD plants. There are also concerns that some plants that were being developed in anticipation of more robust support from the FiT scheme could now be abandoned. It had been hoped 1,000 could be built by 2020, up from the current 31, but the multiple environmental benefits of thousands of on farm AD plants will only be rolled out if farm businesses can afford them.

The other issue that remains unclear is the ability to receive capital grants and FiTs for AD projects and the level of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) due to be announced next year. David maintains, however, that government funding shouldn’t be the only driver for developing an anaerobic digester as they have been proven to significantly lower carbon emissions, make better use of agricultural waste as well as giving farmers the opportunity to diversify their trading activities.

There are a number of key

It’s only a matter of time before AD is given the recognition needed”

stakeholders including the CLA who are lobbying to improve the position for AD. We think it is only a matter of time before AD is given the government recognition needed to kick start this market again. “We could see a change in favour of AD in as little as a year however and we think it is important not to take current projects off the boil.

AD is on the government’s agenda,

they have stated their desire to see an increase in waste going to AD and we want clients to be in a position to take advantage of the opportunities that AD offers,” David concludes. l For further information please contact David Kinnersley on 01295 226294 or email david. kinnersley@fishergerman.co.uk

Tariff levels for electricity financial incentives Energy source Scale Generation Tariff (per kWh) Duration (years) AD AD Hydro Hydro Hydro Hydro MicroCHP pilot* PV PV PV PV PV PV Wind Wind Wind Wind Wind Wind

≤500kW 11.5 >500kW 9.0 ≤15 kW 19.9 >15 - 100kW 17.8 >100kW - 2MW 11.0 >2MW - 5MW 4.5 ≤2 kW* 10* ≤4 kW (new build) 36.1 ≤4 kW (retrofit) 41.3 >4-10kW 36.1 >10 -100kW 31.4 >100kW - 5MW 29.3 Standalone system 29.3 ≤1.5kW 34.5 >1.5 - 15kW 26.7 >15 - 100kW 24.1 >100 - 500kW 18.8 >500kW - 1.5MW 9.4 >1.5MW - 5MW 4.5

20 20 20 20 20 20 10* 25 25 25 25 25 25 20 20 20 20 20 20

Notes: Tariffs are index linked for inflation.

‘Retfrofit’ means installed on a building which is currently occupied. ‘New build’ means where installed on a new building before first occupation. ‘Standalone’ means not attached to a building and not wired to provide electricity to an occupied building. Subject to conditions. *tariff is available only for 30,000 micro-CHP installations, subject to a review when 12,000 units have been installed.

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 25

feature | climate change

A changing climate for land Investment in land is part of the climate change agenda. Barry Gamble, chairman of Fisher German, reports

C

oncerns about population growth impacting on food security and food price inflation are well rehearsed historical reasons for owning land and uncertainty about energy security is now often linked to this analysis. It is also now increasingly recognised that investment in land, agribusiness, energy, forests, waste and water are all part of a continuum that is encapsulated by the climate change agenda.

Land grows crops for food or energy, provides space for energy farms (wind and solar) and for the storage, dispersal and digestion of farm and other waste. It also provides opportunities for building development. The recent debate about whether land is used best for the production of energy or of food should perhaps be seen in an historical context. Old countrymen quote farmers and landowners at the beginning of the twentieth century who claimed that about a third of UK agricultural production at the time was for

26 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

Barry Gamble, chairman of Fisher German The appointment of Barry Gamble as chairman of Fisher German marks the first time this position has been filled by someone external to the partnership since the predecessor firms were formed back in the early Victorian years.

“Many clients have commented to me that the decision to make an external appointment shows a new confidence by the firm’s partners and a recognition that continuing to meet client needs may be helped a little by this more outward facing approach,” comments Barry.

“Successful businesses in the service sector without doubt

energy, as it provided hay for the tractors of the day – horses.

A number of international investment funds developed their initial exposure to the land based sector by making loans to buy agricultural land and forestry. It was then just a short step to take an equity interest in farm and forestland. However, unlike the institutional investors in UK land in the 1970s, most of which have exited their investments, these international funds remain long term holders. Some groups, such as the US publicly quoted real estate investment trust Plum Creek, see possibilities for multiple use development from extensive land ownership interests. Others seem less aware of these broader opportunities for land, but the evidence of linkage to the climate change agenda is clear. A number of investors are considering agricultural land in South America, Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. The Financial Times recently reported that a leading private equity investor was

The decision to make an external appointment shows a new confidence”

CV in brief

As well as being chairman of Fisher German, Barry Gamble FCA, a chartered accountant, has a number of board advisory and non executive roles. As chairman of Fountains plc he built the forest and land management base to 1,000,000 acres in the UK and USA. He has served as an advisor to the Anglo Australian Fund of Funds Stafford Timberland, director of the national agricultural department of Grant Thornton and director of the East Anglian Real Property Company, a 10,000 acre agribusiness operation for the Dutch investment group Robeco.

For further information contact Barry Gamble on 01858 410 200 or email barry. gamble@fishergerman.co.uk

need to stay totally focused on meeting the developing needs of their clients. This includes anticipating the requirement for new services.

“Fisher German was one of the first firms to spot the specialist work surveyors could offer utility companies and have, more recently, been developing renewable energy solutions for rural landowners and corporate clients.

I very much look forward to playing my part in working with the partners and staff to better meet the needs of existing and new clients.”

looking to 'new pastures' with the purchase of 19,000 square miles (12m acres) of cattle ranches in Australia.

In assessing land the climate change dimension from concerns such as flooding, water security and soil degradation are key considerations when it comes to valuation. In the UK the trend of land prices has been generally upwards in recent years.

While some are concerned that land prices are artificially inflated by the capital tax benefits, for many the fundamentals remain sound, particularly in uncertain times.

Assets which are land based may increasingly become the allocation to which many more investors seek exposure, recognising a wider range of value drivers for the future. Perhaps some will see this as a changing climate for land while others may well consider this is nothing new but just a more modern interpretation of long established thinking. l

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 27

feature | Rural consultancy

A Graceful approach

The tenant farmers of Belvoir Castle are benefiting from a recent plan designed to breathe new life into the estate

For further information on farm or estate management contact Richard Sanders on 01858 411234 or email richard.sanders@fishergerman.co.uk Her Grace has co-authored Belvoir Castle, 1,000 years of Family, Art and Architecture, with Jane Pruden.

28 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

feature | Rural consultancy

T

It’s been incredibly exciting, and has re-energised everyone”

he Duchess of Rutland has a somewhat eclectic background. She grew up on the family farm in Wales, studied to be a land agent and an opera singer and then enjoyed a successful career as an interior designer. While the skill set might seem rather unusual for the chatelaine of a castle, it has equipped Emma, the Duchess of Rutland, strangely appropriately.

David Manners, 11th Duke of Rutland and Emma’s husband, inherited Belvoir Estate in 1999. However, he was not just heir to the majestic castle that surveys 15,000 glorious acres of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire countryside, but also to large tax and repair bills and massive annual running costs.

Aptly named beautiful view (Belvoir), the castle has proved to be the perfect setting for the various income generating enterprises that Her Grace has launched to help fund the costs of running the estate. There are now over 25,000 visitors a year to the castle which also plays host to weddings, pop concerts and various forms of corporate hospitality, including 70 shoot days. In addition, the Duchess has launched a range of botanical drinks – The Duchess of Rutland Botanicals – and is hoping to expand into other products.

As a farmer’s daughter, Her Grace has a particular empathy with the difficulties that farmers face. A chance meeting with Dr Stuart Burgess, CBE, chair of the Commission for Rural Communities and the government’s rural advocate in 2008, prompted her to tackle a farming issue close to her heart – that of the role of young, tenant farmers on the estate.

“I was very involved with the Young Farmers in Herefordshire while I was growing up. There was a real buzz about working on the land and we need to get that excitement back into being a young farmer,” she explains.

As rural advocate, Stuart

champions the poor representation of the youth in agriculture in rural England. In conversation with him, the Duchess was dismayed to find that Nottinghamshire and Rutland have one of the lowest representations of young farmers in England. Her dismay turned to a determination to address the issue and the Duchess and Duke sought the professional help of David Merton and Richard Sanders of Fisher German.

“The farmers on the estate had become disillusioned and felt that the leadership from the castle had lost its momentum,” explains the Duchess.

“When we first moved to Belvoir we didn’t have enough control to make the necessary changes. But two years ago we were able to take control of the estate’s destiny, shake it up and sort it out.”

Richard was asked to undertake a review of the estate’s Home Farm, which totals just over 1,000 hectares of arable land and about 500 hectares of grassland, to see how it might be better redistributed to encourage the young, tenant farmers.

Home Farm’s tenancy was redrawn into smaller contract farms and Paul Sheardown, a young, third generation tenant farmer at Belvoir, now farms 600 hectares of Home Farm’s arable land and three other young farmers have contract agreements of about 100 hectares of arable land each. “It’s been incredibly exciting, and has re-energised everyone,” explains her Grace.

Richard’s experience and encouragement has given great confidence to the estate. “He is very calm and always has matters under control,” says the Duchess.

Now focusing on the use of the grassland at Home Farm, Richard is applying for Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) schemes to fence fields in awkward locations or difficult shapes and sizes.

“Once the fencing is complete we will be able to better allocate the grassland to the farm tenants,” Richard explains. “The land will be used in a much more efficient way and HLS will also help to maintain hedgerows and to protect some of the rare archaeological features at Belvoir.”

Richard is also keen to ensure that the profitability of the various enterprises on the estate can be measured. “The estate has to be run profitably to ensure its future,” he explains. “If we can improve the interaction between Belvoir’s enterprises then we can maximise any possible business expansion.” A sentiment that Emma Rutland, truly a duchess of the 21st century, endorses. l Fisher GERMAN Magazine 29

feature | general practice

The scale and complexity of many Fisher German projects means that Computer Aided Design is extremely useful, explains Stephen Rice

The

F

isher German’s extensive portfolio proves they are no strangers to carrying out large scale projects for a huge range of clients, and one of the firm’s latest projects is the planning and development of a new recreational marina at Lilford Lodge Farm, near the town of Oundle in East Northamptonshire.

At the end of 2009, Stephen Rice and the team submitted a planning application to Northamptonshire County Council for the 100 berth marina, connected to the River Nene by an existing backwater. The marina, which will contain 4.5 hectares of water, will be open for recreational use and the plans show a two storey building which will include showers, toilets, washing facilities and a fishing tackle shop.

In keeping with its surroundings the building has been designed to give the appearance of an agricultural building and will be constructed from natural stone, quarried from the local

30 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

l

Lilford Lodge Farm, and timber boarding under a natural grey slate roof.

Projects of this scale would not be possible without the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and a team of highly skilled operators at Fisher German.

From day one, CAD played a vital role in enabling the client and Stephen to sell the marina concept to lots of important consultees at an early stage.

CAD involves creating computer models defined by geometrical parameters. These models typically appear on a computer monitor as a three dimensional representation of the project as a whole, which can be readily altered by changing relevant parameters. CAD systems enable the designers and planners at Fisher German to view objects under a wide variety of representations and to test For more information contact Stephen Rice on 01295 226297 or email stephen.rice@fishergerman.co.uk

general practice | feature

One of the most obvious advantages of CAD software is the use of digital models instead of the paper blueprints” these objects by simulating real world conditions. Models can also be viewed in different dimensions, and CAD systems offer ‘zoom’ features, whereby a designer can magnify certain elements of a model to facilitate inspection.

One of the most obvious advantages of CAD software is the use of digital models instead of the paper blueprints.

Measurements are automatic, and lines, shapes and objects can be created with a simple click of a mouse as opposed to slide rulers and calculators of days gone by.

“Our project management these days relies mainly on email for communication and distribution of information to the team and consultees, it simply wouldn’t be possible to use this method if we didn’t have digital drawings,” explains Stephen.

“Not only do CAD drawings look a lot more professional in appearance, but amendments can be made quickly if in the hands of a skilled operator, such as Andrew Nourish, the CAD technician who worked on this project.

CAD enabled my client and myself to interact with our designer to make regular changes and improvements on a weekly, and sometimes daily, basis.”

Stephen and the team have been in regular discussions with the council planning officers to ensure that they receive a successful planning permission. Stephen believes this project will have a huge impact on tourism and the local economy, as he explains. “Not only is the demand for moorings very high, but we are going to have day hire boats and these don’t exist anywhere else on the Nene. Also, the sand and gravel we extract will be used by a factory making concrete products and a readymix concrete batching plant, located within 500 yards of Lilford Lodge Farm entrance.” l

of

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 31

feature | guest article

Water,

water everywhere…

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust’s research into water quality assesses how farmers’ land use influences the UK’s water system

A

t the start of the millennium the European parliament introduced one of the most significant pieces of water legislation ever to be rolled out on an international level, and one that would have a large impact on all farmers and growers Europe-wide – the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD).

The WFD requires our rivers, lakes, ground and coastal waters to reach ‘good’ chemical status by 2015, meaning farming in the UK is coming under increasing pressure to reduce its negative impact on the UK’s water quality. As well as affecting wildlife, sediment and associated phosphorus in watercourses and standing water contributes to flood risk, reduces water storage capacity and increases water treatment costs for water companies.

Although agriculture is not solely responsible for water pollution, it does contribute approximately 60 per cent of nitrates, 25 per cent of phosphorus and 70 per cent of sediments to our waters.

32 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

Farming’s contribution is not surprising considering agriculture covers 70 per cent of the land area of England”

To investigate further the relationship between farming, stream nutrients and its effects, the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), in collaboration with ADAS, Leicester University and CEH, carried-out a Defra-funded project entitled, Phosphorus from Agriculture: Riverine Impacts Study (PARIS).

PARIS explored the physical and chemical processes in streams and their impact on wildlife. The project concentrated on sub catchment areas at Loddington Farm, Leicestershire, home of the GWCT’s Allerton Project (see box) and two other sites.

Weekly sampling revealed that average concentrations of phosphorus were four times as high in the arable catchment at 118 micrograms per litre, as in the grass catchment at only 28 micrograms per litre.

Farming can generate a range of pollutants, including nitrates, phosphates, pesticides, slurries, soil particles, heavy metals, oils and faecal pathogens from livestock manure. Unlike point source pollution, which enters a river course at a specific site such as a pipe discharge, most of this diffuse pollution occurs when these substances leach into surface waters and groundwater as a result of rainfall, soil infiltration and surface runoff.

Farming’s contribution is not surprising considering agriculture covers 70 per cent of the land area of England and sources of diffuse pollution, including nutrients from fertilisers and manure, are essential parts of the industry. However, the increases in nutrient levels can result in toxic waterways, which has an adverse impact on wildlife.

The results showed that at 80+ micrograms per litre of phosphorus, the number of insect and algae species in the stream started to decline and the development of blanket weed on the surface started to increase significantly, having a profound impact on the freshwater wildlife.

The research team found that roads, septic tanks and small rural sewage treatment works also contributed phosphorus to the water, having strong seasonal and localised effects on the streams.

They also found that phosphorus increase is strongly associated with eroded soil particles which is more likely during rainfall, and as severe weather is predicted to increase under future climate change these results are very worrying.

The findings underline the importance of upholding best practice in the use of fertilisers, manures and pesticides; maintaining good soil structure to maximise infiltration of rainfall and minimise run off and erosion; protecting watercourses from faecal contamination with fencing and livestock crossings, and from sedimentation and pesticides with buffer strips; reducing stocking density or grazing intensity; and reverting from arable to grassland in highly erodible sites.

To help farmers respond to the challenges associated with implementing WFD, the GWCT runs training courses. l

The Allerton Project

was set up in 1992 at the request of the previous owners of the farm at Loddington, Lord and Lady Allerton.

Its aims are to research the effects of farming on wildlife and the environment, and to share the results of this research through educational activities including training and demonstration programmes.

There is a wide ranging research programme in collaboration with Become a GWCT member: universities and All GWCT research and action is other research dependent on the support and organisations interest of a dedicated membership across the UK, base. Members share the belief that and the project sustainable conservation practice receives financial should be founded on firm scientific support from research and that good wildlife and government and game management is fundamental industrial sponsors. to successful conservation. To join visit The farm is 333 www.gwct.org.uk/support_us or call hectares.

01425 652381.

Fisher GERMAN Magazine 33

St Helens Knutsford Phone 01565 757970 knutsford@fishergerman.co.uk 2 Royal Court Tatton Street Cheshire WA16 6BP

Phone 01744 451145 sthelens@fishergerman.co.uk Rainford Hall Crank Road WA11 7RP

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34 Fisher GERMAN Magazine

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Phone 01777 860755 retford@fishergerman.co.uk.

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Fisher GERMAN Magazine 35

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