The findings of a ground breaking regional report into West Midlands’ vegetable, fruit and plant production have been revealed following a year-long study.
The research project got off the ground just over 12 months ago as part of a bid to help boost farm businesses and explore what is being grown on thousands of hectares across the region.
West Midlands’ growers, including potato producers, backed the Defra-funded study and were at Pershore Civic Centre, in Worcestershire, today (January 13).
At the event a panel of industry experts discussed issues highlighted in the report including renewable energy, training and water management.
There were also technical talks on integrated pest and disease management in top fruit, vegetables, protected crops and ornamentals.
The European Food and Farming Partnership, EFFP, worked with an industry steering group to produce the study, entitled ‘Getting to the heart of horticulture’.
The steering group included representatives from the NFU, the University of Worcester and Wychavon District Council, among others.
The report has helped to get a fuller picture of the region’s credentials as one of the country’s leading horticulture hot-spots and has unearthed some key information on a variety of issues including the sector’s competitiveness and viability.
In the executive summary the findings show that while horticulture uses just three per cent of the region’s agricultural land it contributes more than 21 per cent of the value of its agricultural output.
Half of the horticultural land is used for potato production but as a region the West Midlands accounts for a massive 50 per cent of the UK’s asparagus and cider apple production, 20 per cent of strawberry and 35 per cent of blackcurrant production.
The report also looks at the economics, seasonality, the supply chain and the challenges and opportunities for the sector in the years ahead.
Neil Adams, of EFFP, said: “The report results are very interesting and show a sector demonstrating growth in several areas, an important driver for the West Midlands’ economy.
“Getting to the heart of horticulture has also highlighted sector challenges and how growers can succeed in a highly competitive market.
“We hope this will help farmers enhance their businesses, promote the sector and influence decision makers.”
A more detailed summary of the findings will shortly be made available on-line for farmers and others to view.
Getting to the heart of horticulture was funded by Defra and the rural development programme, with support from partners and other industry sources.
For further details please contact Neil Adams on 01380 831450 or Clare Greener, NFU West Midlands senior policy adviser on 01952 409238.
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