Warr Partnership—Summer 2011 Newsletter

The WARR Partnership is responsible for delivering the Leader programme across rural Rother and Wealden, including the market towns of Hailsham, Heathfield, Battle and Rye.

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SUMMER 2011 NEWSLETTER

FUNDING FOR FARMERS AND FORESTERS
With the programme past its half way mark, and full spend achieved three years running, the WARR Partnership is well on its way to achieving the targets and objectives set out for this area. To
ensure the remainder can be achieved before the end of the programme, we particularly need to encourage projects which fall under the following Measures to come forward:-

Measure 122: Improving the economic value of forests

This Measure is only available to the owners of private forests, and its objective is to improve and broaden the economic value of our woodland. Increasing demand for wood fuel, together with natural materials for construction, landscaping and furniture, creates a viable return from timber harvesting. Encouraging improved management of woodlands will in turn provide greater environmental and social benefits for us all. Funding of up to 50% may be available and below are examples of eligible costs:-

Specialist harvesting equipment
Storage facilities and handling equipment
Equipment and machinery for harvesting, and in-forest processing of wood fuel Equipment and machinery which will improve woodland habitatInfrastructure specifically for in-forest recreational enterprises which will safeguard environmental impact.

NB: Evidence of a Forest Management Plan covering your holding will be required, but this can be grant aided by the Forestry Commission.

Measure 123: Adding value to agricultural and forestry products

This Measure’s objective is to increase the processing and marketing of primary agricultural and forestry products, in order to improve overall performance. A maximum grant rate of 40% is available, and below are examples of eligible costs:-

Butchery facilities, cheese/yoghurt production, processing of fruit/vegetables Contractors producing rough sawn timber, or processing roundwood for wood fuel (limited to operations prior to industrial processing)

NB: We are unable to fund costs associated directly with production.