Ceredigion farmers concerned with plans to sell Research Farm

Welsh Government plans to sell off its research farm at Pwllpeiran in Cwmystwyth, near Aberystwyth have been criticised by NFU Cymru members in Ceredigion.

Ceredigion incoming NFU Cymru Chairman John Davies said, "The Pwllpeiran Research Centre has been instrumental to the development of upland farming in Wales and has a long history of high quality agricultural and land management research which goes back as far as the 1930s. The kind of research work that has been carried out at Pwllpeiran has been integral in helping to keep upland farming economically, socially and environmentally sustainable."

Mr Davies added, "With nearly 80% of Wales’ agricultural land being designated as Less Favoured a research facility such as Pwllpeiran is a crucial strategic asset which should be protected and enhanced rather than being sold off piece by piece. At a time when research and development will be needed more than ever to meet the challenge of sustainably increasing food production to meet the needs of a growing global population we do question where these plans leave us in Wales.

"Whilst we understand the pressures on public finances and the need for Welsh Government to consider their asset base we hope that further thought and consideration will be given to whether there is the possibility or potential for vital research into upland farming to continue at the site through collaboration with a research body in the public or private sector.

Mr Davies said, "After hearing about the potential closure from our local Assembly Member, Elin Jones, our thoughts are also with those currently employed by ADAS in Pwllpeiran who face uncertain times ahead with the threat of job losses. We are also concerned about the potential negative impact this will have on local businesses and the wider rural economy."