Cornwall Council’s Neighbourhoods Overview and Scrutiny Committee will be seeking the views of residents and organisations across Cornwall as they undertake a review of the Council’s farms strategy.

The wide ranging review is set to determine the future direction and operation of the Council’s farm estate, including the setting of clear environmental standards and making sure the farm estate plays its part in helping to deliver Cornwall’s priorities for environmental growth, prosperity and health.

The public are invited to attend to observe sessions where representatives from different organisations and backgrounds will be invited to answer questions that will be posed by the inquiry members.  The responses captured at the sessions will help members make recommendations on the way forward.

Councillor Martyn Alvey will lead the review, alongside Councillors Fairman, Luke, Olivier and Rule.

Councillor Alvey said: "Many residents of Cornwall are surprised to hear that Cornwall Council is one of the largest owners of farmland in the County; currently with 99 farm holdings.  These historic holdings, which date back to the countries post-war recovery, form a vital component of Cornwall's rural economy and provide an important point of access to the industry for those aspiring to run their own farm.  This inquiry is essential to ensure that the county farm estate and its tenants are able to continue to meet the challenges of current farming practices whilst ensuring exemplary environmental stewardship of our precious countryside."

Inquiry members are keen to hear from members of the public and other organisations as soon as possible on what the outcomes of the objectives could potentially be. 

If you would like to make a submission or to find out more, email neighbourhoodsosc@cornwall.gov.uk. 

The deadline for submissions is Friday 25 May 2018.

The inquiry days will be held at New County Hall in Truro

Monday 16 April 2018 – from 1.00pm

Thursday 26 April 2018 – from 9.30am

Friday 27 April 2018 – from 1.00pm

Wednesday 30 May 2018 – from 9.30am

Thursday 31 May 2018 – from 9.30am

Wednesday 13 June 2018 – from 9.30am

Tuesday 19 June 2018 – from 9.30am