Diversified Farm Business
I run an agritourism business, when can I expect to restart?
As per the Scottish Government’s updated route map announced on 24 June, self-catered accommodation without shared facilities (including second homes) can prepare to reopen from Friday 3 July.
From Monday 6 July, outdoor hospitality can re-open (including beer gardens, pavement eateries etc.), subject to the 2-metre rule.
All other accommodation and hospitality can prepare to reopen from Wednesday 15 July.
In advance of this provisional reopening date, Scottish Government has published the following guidance for all tourism and hospitality operators to abide by when reopening operations:
What social distancing requirements are required in retail and hospitality?
The general advice is that it is essential that 2 meters are maintained between people who are in different households.
As Scotland progressed into Phase 3, there may be some limited exemptions for hospitality, retail and public transport where a reduction of 1 meter may be possible. If this is the case, 2-meter social distancing must be replaced with an alternative precautionary measure, for example using a Perspex screen or more stringent controls on how many customers can be served. More information from the Scottish Government about changes to physical distancing is available here.
What support is available to diversified elements of my farm business?
A range of support may be available, check the FAQ information on financial business support for more information, available here.
Some important guidance includes:
- Guidance about non-domestic rates relief from the Scottish Government is available here.
NFU Scotland is aware that some members have been unable to access government schemes for diversified activities due to eligibility criteria and has written to Scottish Government calling for additional support. The Scottish Government has provided a detailed response outlining that they are unable to reopen or expand existing schemes at the present time, but has signposted to further support schemes which may be suitable. The response is available here