Farming in Northumberland is future-proofed as part of council plan to be carbon neutral by 2030.

The Future of Farming report puts Northumberland in the driving seat of the agricultural transition and explores the challenges of the county council’s ambitious plans to drive the county towards carbon neutrality by 2030.

Its focus is on moving towards low-carbon manufacturing, sustaining food production and large-scale tree planting and peat restoration, supporting farming businesses to survive and thrive as well as balancing the future interests of estate landowners and tenant farmers.

A series of discussions have been ongoing since spring, which have resulted in 12 recommendations being put to the county council which include closer collaborative working, better access to training, improved digital connectivity and championing the ‘made in Northumberland’ brand.

Glen Sanderson, council leader, said: “It’s great to see this report come into fruition. Farming is such a huge part of our identity here in Northumberland and we need to fully support our farming communities to become more sustainable.

“Being a farmer myself I know the importance of future-proofing our agricultural sector in a way that works effectively for everyone and I look forward to putting the recommendations from the report into action.”

A committee has been made up of 11 independent experts from the rural and farming industry including representatives from the Northumberland National Park Authority, National Farmers Union, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and the Farming and Countryside Commission.

Professor Sally Shortall, chair of the inquiry, Newcastle University said: “The report will help shape a sustainable future for our agricultural sector. Through these discussions we can better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by our farming communities and I am honoured to have been asked to lead on this inquiry.

“Agriculture is a dynamic and innovative industry that covers food production, retailers, local, national, and international markets and offers exciting opportunities for people who wish to pursue careers in this occupation.

“We know there is a lot of work to be done but, the inquiry makes constructive recommendations that reflect the specific needs of our farming communities."

The report is available to read in full at https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/NorthumberlandCountyCouncil/media/News/2022/April/20221201-FINAL-Future-of-Farming-report.pdf