|
Holdings generally become vacant as tenants retire or surrender the tenancies. Since 1984, New lettings have incorporated a retirement clause requiring the tenant to retire upon the age of 65. However, following the introduction of the Agricultural Tenancies Act 1995, new lettings will usually be for a predetermined length. Tenancies dating from before 1984 enable the tenant to continue for the whole of his lifetime should he so wish. But it should be noted that County Farms are provided as a gateway into the industry and it is hoped that all successful applicants will continue to seek opportunities to move onto larger farms within the private sector.
When a holding becomes vacant it is advertised in the National Farming press and at least one local newspaper. Those interested, are asked to apply for particulars (usually for a small fee) and attend a viewing day when all potential applicants can walk the farm, view the facilities and discuss any matters which they may wish to raise with the Land Agent.
Selection Procedure
Interested applicants have to submit an initial application which must include practical, financial and environmental management proposals from which a shortlist will be selected. Short-listed applicants will be visited at their place of work and those on the final shortlist will be invited to an interview.
The interviewing panel comprises up to 5 members of the County Farms Select Panel and in addition, officers of Environment & Property Management Services. Only Committee Members vote for the their choice of short-listed candidates.
Selection Criteria for Candidates
To be eligible for consideration, applicants must be able to demonstrate that they can fulfil the following conditions:-
- Have at least five years practical experience of farming of which up to three years of approved further education or training can be included.
- Holdings are only available to persons who are prepared to farm them personally, and where houses are provided the tenant is required to reside on the holding.
- Tenants should not normally engage in any form of business other than agriculture, unless the holding is referred to as a part time holding within the letting particulars, although ancillary complimentary activities will be considered and encouraged in suitable cases, based upon their merits.
- Preference is always given when selecting tenants to applicants who can demonstrate that they have the most suitable practical and theoretical knowledge required for the type of farming most suited to the available holding.
- Prospective tenants must be able to show that they have sufficient capital to enter a holding and work it. This can be quite substantial for a fully equipped dairy farm where an incoming tenant may be required to pay for the outgoing tenant's fixtures and fittings, the tenant’s portion of the milk quota and live and dead stock, sufficient to properly farm the holding.
Further Information
If you wish to discuss the opportunities available on Cheshire County Farms Estate, please submit your enquiries either in writing to the County Property Management Service, Richard House, 80 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, by telephone to Mr D R Job County Land Agent on (01244) 972569 or by email to countyfarms@cheshire.gov.uk
|