Rural estate management

Effective rural estate management involves balancing the operational, financial, and environmental aspects of managing large rural properties.

The estate may be primarily used for agriculture, forestry, conservation, or diversified business ventures. Strategic management is crucial to maximise its potential while preserving its long-term value. At Moore Barlow, we provide comprehensive support to estate owners, offering tailored advice and practical solutions to meet your management objectives.

Developing a strategic estate plan

Successful estate management begins with a clear strategy that aligns with your goals, whether focused on income generation, conservation, or legacy planning. Our team works closely with you and your other professional advisers to develop a bespoke estate management plan that outlines key priorities, such as:

• Agricultural and land use planning: Maximising productivity and compliance with agricultural policies.
• Diversification opportunities: Exploring new revenue streams, including tourism, renewable energy projects, and commercial ventures.
• Conservation and environmental stewardship: Implementing sustainable practices that align with government schemes and biodiversity goals.

We assess your estate’s assets, identify opportunities for improvement, and provide a clear roadmap to enhance the estate’s performance and resilience, and how this should be documented legally.

Managing agricultural and commercial operations

For estates with agricultural or commercial components, effective management ensures that operations run smoothly and profitably. Our expertise includes:

• Tenancy management: Drafting and reviewing agreements, resolving disputes, and advising on landlord-tenant relations.
• Contract management: Negotiating and managing agricultural contracts, including grazing, cropping, and farm business tenancies.
• Business planning: Offering strategic guidance to improve efficiency and profitability in agricultural and commercial operations.

We also advise on compliance with relevant regulations, helping avoid potential legal challenges and ensuring that operations align with best practices.

Enhancing estate value through diversification

Diversification is a key strategy for enhancing estate income and sustainability. From developing holiday lets and visitor attractions to initiating renewable energy projects or exploring commercial leases, our team provides comprehensive support to unlock new opportunities. We guide you through feasibility assessments, planning applications, and regulatory compliance to ensure that diversification projects are both viable and legally sound.

Estate administration and compliance

Efficient administration is crucial for maintaining an estate’s financial health and legal compliance. We provide ongoing support with:

• Estate accounting and financial management: Ensuring transparent and effective financial planning.
• Legal compliance: Navigating complex regulatory requirements, including health and safety, environmental laws, and land management obligations.
• Tax planning and reliefs: Advising on opportunities to reduce tax liabilities, including Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR).

Navigating challenges and resolving disputes

Rural estates often encounter challenges, from land and boundary disputes to issues with tenants or neighbouring landowners. Our experienced team assists with:

• Dispute resolution: Offering mediation and negotiation services to resolve conflicts swiftly.
• Legal representation: Providing robust support in litigation or arbitration if needed.
• Risk management: Identifying potential issues early and implementing strategies to prevent disputes from arising.