CLA event at Escot Park to help rural businesses plan with confidence

Rural business owners across the South West are facing a moving target. Tax rules keep shifting, environmental markets are still finding their shape, and passing land or a farm to the next generation has rarely felt more complicated. A one-day event in Devon this September wants to make some of that clearer.

What’s happening and when

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) is hosting a day of practical guidance at Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, on Tuesday 29 September. The aim is to give individuals, families and professionals the information they need to make confident long-term decisions about their businesses, farms and estates.

The programme is built around a series of focused 20-minute presentations from leading specialists, so attendees get a lot of ground covered without any single session dragging. It is supported by Rathbones, PKF Francis Clark, Stephens Scown and Strutt & Parker.

The topics on the table

Speakers will cover the latest updates in taxation, succession planning and the transition of assets between generations, financial and investment planning, and the new opportunities opening up through natural capital and environmental markets.

After the presentations, delegates take part in an interactive question and answer session. Lunch follows, and then there is a guided tour of the Escot Estate for anyone who wants to make a day of it.

Why now

Ann Maidment, CLA South West Director, said the timing matters. “With ongoing changes to taxation, evolving environmental markets, and increasing complexity around family and business planning, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and prepared. This event brings together expert speakers to share clear, practical guidance on key topics including tax updates, succession planning, investment considerations, and emerging opportunities linked to land and natural capital.

“Whether you’re actively planning for the future or simply want to better understand the current landscape, this session will provide valuable insights, real-world examples, and the chance to ask questions in an open and supportive setting.”

Tickets and how to book

The event is open to members at £35 per person including VAT, and members can bring a family member along for free. Non-members pay £38 per person including VAT.

There is a deliberate nudge towards the next generation of rural business leaders too. Members of Young Farmer Clubs, whether they are CLA members or not, can attend at a discounted price of £20 per person including VAT. Every ticket price includes lunch.

Places can be booked on the CLA event page or by calling the CLA South West office on 01249 599059.

The CLA South West represents members across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire, and reckons its members own or manage around half the rural land in England and Wales.