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Don’t Bet the Farm: The Simple Way to Start Diversifying

Written by Posted On Wednesday, 26 July 2017 00:07
Don’t Bet the Farm: The Simple Way to Start Diversifying

It’s no secret that British farmers – particularly Dairy farmers – are getting an increasingly raw deal. Changes in legislation and increasing pressure from retailers to reduce margins are causing farms that have been established for generations to turn in their tools, and making it a struggle for newcomers to even get their foot in the door without accumulating massive debt.

Diversification and entrepreneurial spirit have been the key to surviving in the modern market. Roughly half of the active farms in the UK now complement their primary farming activity with a second business venture, and rather than generating a little bit of pocket money, it’s often these fresh ideas that keep the business afloat.

Now, you may not have the time, cash or energy to invest in launching a llama farm or opening a farm café – but that’s no problem. The only thing you need to start supplementing your income is an empty field, and an advert saying it’s for hire.


Why would people want to rent a field?

Are you kidding? Event planners – professional and amateur – are crying out for large spaces in which they can curate their vision. To them, your patch of earth is a beautiful blank canvas, waiting for the personal stamp of their party, wedding or festival. On top of this, some activities – such as zorbing or Segway adventures – simply require far more space than a city environment can afford.

Traditional venue hire is not only expensive, but can put an incredible amount of restrictions on an event’s décor, itinerary and supplier lists. If an event manager has a clear idea of what they want, hiring an open plot of land allows for far more creativity than the grounds of a hotel or city hall. Another advantage your field has over many traditional venues is its rural location. Guests can escape from the claustrophobia of the city, and enjoy the fresh air of an idyllic, private setting.

 

What kind of events are possible?

While factors like the shape, size and pitch of your land will play a part, generally just about anything is possible – it’s just up to the vision of your customers. Don’t be put off if your space isn’t a perfectly flat square of grass, either. For every activity that needs a clearing (like zorbing), there is another that’s better suited to wooded areas or hilly tracks (such as off-road Segway courses). The same is true for weddings and mini-festivals; the main tent will need a flat surface to stand on, but otherwise sloping grounds simply add character and atmosphere for your guests.

The best place to start is by advertising in the local community, as well as on dedicated sites like “Hire a Field”, listing the perks of your site. They might include space for a car park, access to utilities, and permission for open fires or amplified music. It’s also worth listing any unique features, like picturesque surroundings and local wildlife.

 

dont-bet-the-farm-zorbing.jpg

 

What permissions are required?

You are generally free to hold events on your land for up to 28 days a year, without requiring additional planning permission. However, if your plans include changing the use of a building (or opening it for “mixed use”), this may require separate approval.

Parties, festivals, concerts and similar events can be hosted under a Temporary Events Notice, costing £21. This grants permission for up to 499 guests to attend an event of 96 hours or less, where alcohol may be served without additional licensing (further conditions apply). For bigger events, you will need to apply for a Premises Licence.

If you are hoping to host weddings on your property (not just receptions), you will need to apply for the proper license. It has to be linked to a specific room or building – not an outside space – and will cost £1130, which is not refundable if permission is denied. To maintain this license, a renewal cost of £800 a year applies.

For more details and information specific to your region and property, contact your local council.

 

What about Health and Safety?

Legally speaking, the event’s organisers will be responsible for health and safety arrangements but that’s not to say you can’t lend a hand. Any site hazards, including parts of your farm that will be operational during the event, should be clearly identified. Consider using concrete blocks to cordon off private access routes, and invest in some signage for the odd straggler that takes a wrong turn.

Outdoor facilities should be well-lit and in good working order, and your customers should know what the procedures for waste disposal are. Again, talk to your local council for further details.

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Dakota Murphey

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