The CLA

09/10/2026

Hedgerows do far more than mark field boundaries. 🌿
These vital habitats support biodiversity and shape our rural landscapes, yet there are concerns that creating and maintaining them is becoming increasingly challenging for land managers.

We're working to ensure future policy reflects the realities of managing hedgerows. Read more and tell us about your experience here:

We explore what CLA members can do to create and manage one of the defining features of the countryside

08/10/2026

Reservoir boost for some farmers, but not all. 💧

New flexibility from the Environment Agency will allow some abstraction licence holders to fill reservoirs during October 2026. However, several groups are excluded, and not everyone will benefit.

Read our latest blog to find out who is eligible, what action you need to take and the CLA's view on the changes:

Some abstraction licence holders can fill irrigation reservoirs this month: Here's what you need to know

07/10/2026

At today's Dairy Show at the Bath and West Showground , CLA President Gavin Lane (second from right) spoke up for rural businesses during the panel discussion: "The Cost of Change: Inheritance Tax and the Future of Farming."

With family farms facing mounting pressure, the CLA will continue to make the case for policies that support the rural economy - until the cows come home. 🐄

07/10/2026

The Prime Minister promised growth in every postcode, yet family farms across England and Wales are still battling taxes that threaten their future. 🚜

As a recent CLA poll shows, inheritance tax changes are forcing rural businesses to cut investment, shrink their ambitions and question whether they have a future at all.

Learn more about our findings as we make fresh calls for tax changes to be scrapped at the : https://www.cla.org.uk/news/farmers-shrinking-businesses-to-limit-inheritance-tax-damage-major-new-survey-shows/

06/10/2026

Our letter to the PM and Chancellor calling the government to rethink damaging inheritance tax changes. 👇

"Reversing these changes at the next opportunity – the Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026 - would send a clear signal that your government is serious about growth, investment, and supporting family businesses."

Could a reversal on help secure the future of your farm or rural business?

06/10/2026

Could rising employment costs spell the end of the Saturday job? 🛠️

Rising employment costs could make it harder for rural businesses to employ young people, putting thousands of weekend and holiday jobs at risk.

Soaring employer NI contributions, business rates and minimum wage costs are creating difficult choices for employers, and reducing valuable opportunities for young people to gain work experience, develop skills and earn their first income.

Read the full story:

CLA survey finds rural employers are facing tough choices when hiring under people

05/10/2026

It's your last chance to join Wednesday's national Forestry Conference. 🌳

Hear from prominent voices influencing the future of woodlands, learn from real-world case studies and get ideas to strengthen the commercial value of your forestry business:
https://members.cla.org.uk/MY-CLA/Events/Event-Details/eventDateId/4872

05/10/2026

A memorable visit to the The Ernest Cook Trust 🌿

Our Regional Director, Sophie Dwerryhouse, was pleased to join HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh for a visit celebrating the Trust’s commitment to helping people learn, explore and grow outdoors.

It was wonderful to see how connections with land and nature can open new opportunities for children and young people, while supporting learning, wellbeing and a lasting respect for the environment.

Find out more about the Ernest Cook Trust: ernestcooktrust.org.uk

05/10/2026

CLA poll reveals that nine out of ten farmers are halting investment due to inheritance tax rules. 👇

A poll of 700 farmers found many were avoiding spending on new machinery and leaving buildings to rot from fear of exceeding the tax threshold

01/10/2026

Your story could be your greatest business asset. 📖
At this year's CLA Rural Business Conference on 19 November, discover how storytelling can help your businesses build trust, influence decision-makers and unlock growth.

Hear from a number of inspiring speakers, make valuable connections and gain insights you can put into practice immediately.

Spaces are limited so make sure you secure your place today: https://members.cla.org.uk/MY-CLA/Events/Event-Details/eventDateId/4863