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Many farmers are looking to start or expand existing agricultural and non-agricultural enterprises and considering profitable diversification. The Planning System regulates the use of land and buildings in the public interest by ensuring that the right kind of development occurs in the right place and that any permitted development is sustainable for the environment and the local area. When you apply to the local authority for Planning Permission (usually either the council or a National Park Planning Authority) they’ll look at it in the context of national planning policy guidance, which has been prepared by Central Government, and in accordance...
Are You Taking Stock? Many owners of farming land have owned their land for many years, quite often due to being handed down through generations. As such, there is little reason for their deeds to be looked at. Often they enter into informal arrangements with third parties without involving a solicitor, which can also impact on any future sale of that land. So when the decision is made to sell issues can arise such as: Where are your title deeds? The first step in selling your land is to provide your deeds to your solicitor and if you can’t locate...
Too often farmers put off decisions about the future of their farm and this may be because they can’t decide what to do and who to take advice from. A good starting point is their solicitor who can explain what ownership structures are available, the need for a Will and explain around the minefield of tax. Here are some considerations when dealing with succession planning for farmers and landowners: Talk to your family in good time about what your ideas for the future are and what theirs are. It can be useful to bring in a third party such as...
Bowcock & Pursaill agricultural specialist Catherine Whittles oversaw the acquisition of a 25 year farm business tenancy at Sandon Estate for dairy farmers, Muir Farming Ltd. Lucy and James Muir have been share farming in Lucy’s family farm for seven years and were interested in growing and expanding their business further. When a 260 acre farm became available in April this year they needed a quick turnaround and through referral, contacted Catherine at Bowcock & Pursaill to oversee the contract from beginning to end. Lucy commented: “Catherine advised us on the farm business tenancy agreement, the in-goings and outgoings for...
Rights of way disputes are more common than you might think and can have a significant impact on your business. Disputes specialist Tim Wolley at Bowcock & Pursaill Solicitors explains how rights of way are created and the common problems which lead to legal headaches. Also known as an easement, a right of way is the right to access land (the dominant land) over another’s property (the servient land). If a right of way has been established, in most instances it is stated in your property deeds. They can arise in several ways but are usually: Via a Deed of...
Since the early days of the coronavirus outbreak there has been a marked increase in the number of queries being made in relation to Inheritance Tax, Estate Planning and Wills. High levels of global uncertainty have brought financial planning to the fore as many are focused on protecting their estates and ensuring the ongoing financial security of their families. An estate refers to everything in your possession that carries value; this can be your savings, investments and properties as well as equipment, cars and jewellery. Your business also forms part of your estate and there are several important legal considerations...
Equine and agricultural specialist Catherine Whittles of Staffordshire law firm Bowcock & Pursaill answers your most common questions. Do I need planning permission? Yes you may do, as equine and agriculture fall into different use classes. This also applies to any buildings you erect for stables or any ménage you construct. Can I get a grant? There are development grants available in some areas to help farm owners diversify which we can advise on. Do I have to be licensed? No, however it can help if your yard is approved by the British Horse Society which proves you meet certain...
Many employers are currently utilizing the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and this will remain available until the end of June 2020 (unless the Government confirms a further extension). Solicitor and Bowcock and Pursaill, Clare Thomas explains employers’ options regarding termination of employment during furlough. Whilst the CJRS has provided businesses with some time before making more drastic changes to the workforce in response to the pandemic, most will already be trying to evaluate the short, medium and long-term impact of Covid-19 both on the economy in general and more specifically their business. Some businesses will close sadly. However, businesses...
We live in challenging times. The government is taking steps to keep the economy going during the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic. Legislation is being enacted in weeks rather than years; guidance is being communicated and updated regularly. The consequences for employment law and practice remain in some circumstances uncertain: none of the new laws, regulations or guidance have yet been tested in the employment tribunal. If you face employment challenges please take advice from an expert employment lawyer and consult the gov.uk website. There are numerous gov.uk pages providing guidance. There is also the Treasury’s Direction on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme...
Founded in 1927, Bowcock & Pursaill has been our clients’ number one choice for solicitors in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire for almost 100 years. We also act on behalf of clients throughout the country.
The firm prides itself on its customer service, offering detailed and bespoke advice to clients thanks to our small and highly specialised team of partners, solicitors and legal executives based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Are you interested in joining Bowcock & Pursaill? We have a friendly and supportive atmosphere, where everyone knows everyone else and there’s a good team spirit.
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