With estate agents seeing a surge of interest in country living, we look at the options for earning, or saving money if you own or buy a rural plot
Lockdown and working from home have turned many people’s thoughts to rural living, and urban dwellers both old and young are looking for more space. If you are dreaming of buying a rural plot, there are plenty of opportunities to support your new lifestyle, as long as you recognise the pros, cons and legal obligations that come with them.
Keeping animals
Raising poultry – or even a couple of pigs – may well be part of your vision of the good life – either as a hobby or a money-earner. Be aware, however, that owning livestock brings obligations in terms of animal welfare and the disposal of waste.
The deeds of your property may also have restrictions on the raising of animals, so it’s worthwhile checking this before buying.
Growing – and selling – your own
Did you know that pick-your-own (PYO) pumpkin patches are growing in popularity? And Christmas tree farms? More traditional ways to profit from your produce could include selling organic veg or compost.
For anything grown in polytunnels (nearly always a requirement in Scotland), you will need to think about maintenance. Depending on size, they may also require planning permission. Considerations for PYO enterprises will include the provision of parking and access to fields and toilets.
Solar panels, biomass and turbines
There’s a growing trend to use renewable energy for self-sufficiency in rural areas, using solar panels, single wind turbines or biomass boilers, and it doesn’t have to be on a huge scale. Over 56,000 households in Scotland already have a solar PV system.
Government grants for solar panels in Scotland are no longer available but you may qualify for an interest-free loan of up to £5,000.
Glamping pods
The staycationing trend looks set to last, and you don’t need to have a vacant cottage on your land to benefit. Glamping pods are an easier and cheaper option and can be relatively low maintenance when up and running.
One important consideration here will be whether you need planning permission. Permission is required with ‘permanent’ structures, but wooden ‘roulette-style’ accommodation on wheels can be put in place without permission.
Rural businesses – crafts and cafés
There are plenty of options here, for example selling your own crafts or other people’s.
On the legal side, food and beverage venues require licensing from local councils. On the practical and commercial side, beware of seasonality. Cafés and galleries in rural areas often close in the winter months so it is worth considering the viability of your business during the low season, especially if you want income year-round.
Alpacas
Alpacas do well on Scotland’s hilly/damp terrain. They are docile and easy to handle and can share field space with other animals.
Walking with alpacas has become a popular pursuit, and some owners offer their alpacas for weddings and other events. They can also be raised for their wool or fibre, or act as an extra attraction for your café or glamping pods.
If you do keep alpacas, pay attention to the specific duties of care placed on owners by the Animal Welfare Act (2006).
Forestry
The Scottish Government believes forestry has an important role in helping the rural economy recover from the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic and also in helping Scotland meet its climate change targets. A variety of grants are available, including new schemes announced in 2020.
Venues for events
Larger and older properties make picturesque venues for weddings and other celebrations, while other spaces may be suitable for team-building activities and outdoor pursuits.
However, this year’s shutdown has been devastating for the events industry, and it is not yet clear when the commercial opportunities will return. The prospect of keeping ageing venues watertight and profitable in the current circumstances could be challenging but could still work longer-term.
Our Rural Services team are happy to provide support with buying rural plots, property and smallholdings, and with setting up rural businesses – whether it is one of the options above or another opportunity.
