National stage for ambitious local partnership

The ambitions of the Marches Forward Partnership (MFP) have been highlighted at a national conference held in Newtown, bringing together experts to discuss how investment can support farming, nature recovery and rural communities.

The “Unlocking Finance for Farm and Landscape Recovery in Wales” conference, organised by the Land Use for Net Zero Hub, welcomed policymakers, farmers, landowners and finance specialists to explore ways of improving access to funding for environmental projects while supporting resilient farming and economic growth.

Representatives from Powys County Council used the event to present the work of the Marches Forward Partnership, outlining how collaboration across the England and Wales border is helping to link environmental improvements with economic opportunities.

Jake Berriman, leader of Powys County Council, said discussions at the conference focused on the difficulties many farmers and land managers face in securing finance, along with the need for clearer investment frameworks that provide confidence for investors while delivering benefits for both communities and the environment.

“There was strong interest in blended funding models that combine public and private investment to unlock delivery at scale, which is at the heart of the partnership’s ambitions,” he said.

Delegates also heard about ongoing work to help farmers and land managers adopt more sustainable practices and access emerging opportunities, including nature based solutions and environmental markets.

The partnership highlighted its work at a catchment scale through the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme, which was presented as an example of how organisations can work together to improve water management, strengthen flood resilience, support nature recovery and protect long term food production.

Conference discussions also emphasised the importance of trust, transparency and strong local partnerships in attracting investment into environmental projects.

The Marches Forward Partnership says it will continue building on the discussions from the Newtown conference as it looks to develop practical solutions that benefit both rural communities and the natural environment across the region.