Defra plans new horticulture strategy with industry bodies

Following the report from Horticulture Week last week, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has said it will now develop a strategy with the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) and other key industry bodies within the Ornamental Horticulture Round Table such as the Horticultural Trades Association, National Farmers' Union, Chartered Institute of Horticulture, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Arboricultural Association, Landex (Land Based Colleges Aspiring to Excellence) and the Royal Horticultural Society, instead of giving the sector monetary payment.

The plan aims to focus on forward-looking policies to enhance industry profile and facilitate economic recovery and growth for the sector. 

Defra is welcoming thoughts on a recovery strategy through the Roundtable Group and plans further collaboration on the strategy.

A Defra spokesperson said:

 “We know that this time of year is crucial for the horticulture industry and are very aware of the impacts of coronavirus on the sector. Our decision to reopen garden centres and nurseries as soon as was feasible, and in a safe way, successfully enabled businesses to sell their products directly to the public again."

“Businesses still suffering can take up the unprecedented package of financial support available to help them through this time, including the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and Bounce Back Loans. We will continue work closely with the sector to help ensure its continued recovery.” 

BALI will keep aim to keep members informed with any changes and developments to the strategy to support their businesses and bring horticulture back to the forefront.