HAFOD Y LLYN ISAF Vision & Letting Particulars · Vision & Lettings Particulars – Hafod y Llyn Isaf 3 The National Trust invites management proposals and tenders for the Farm Business

Vision & Lettings Particulars – Hafod y Llyn Isaf

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HAFOD Y LLYN ISAFVision & Letting Particulars

Available to Let by Tender


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1. The Opportunity 0 2. Farm Vision 1 3. The Holding 2 4. Essential Skills and Resources 3 5. Application and Tenders 4 6. Disclaimer & Data Privacy 5 7. Appendices 6

Farming for food and nature …


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The National Trust invites management proposals and tenders for the Farm Business Tenancy of Hafod y Llyn Isaf to help create an exemplar farm that demonstrates how nature friendly farming can benefit nature and the people that inhabit it. The farm is offered on a 10-year Farm business Tenancy from 1st October 2020. Hafod y Llyn Isaf is a secluded small holding in the locality of Nantmor, Beddgelert. Extending to 44.54ha or thereabouts (approximately 110.06acres). A major renovation of the 2-bedroom house was carried out in 2013 with further works in 2019 and there is a range of farm buildings. A farm rich in biodiversity as well as agricultural potential, Hafod y Llyn Isaf is notable for its species rich grasslands and meadows, wooded riparian corridors, and its grazed open scrubland, good soil, with pools and old trees and in a beautiful landscape. The National Trust has reviewed the priorities for delivery of its charitable purpose in the 21st century and these are captured in our new strategy ‘Playing Our Part’ published in 2015 (see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/documents/national-trust-playing-our-part.pdf). Our strategic objectives for Hafod y Llyn Isaf will include maximising the potential for biodiversity including the following: Ensuring that all our land is of a ‘High Nature Status’ – this is about making sure the

area that wildlife use is well managed, better linked together, where a ‘network’ of habitats is joined up across whole landscapes,

Increasing the variety and range of species supported and the structural diversity of habitat

Protecting soil structure and managing water and carbon storage Engaging with the public and welcoming access to promote the Trusts conservation

objectives and increasing knowledge of land management practices. Holistically manage (areas and timing) grazing by livestock around the holding Enhance wildlife habitats and food sources through nature-friendly farming Eradicate invasive species (Himalayan Balsam, Japanese Knotweed, Skunk cabbage,

Mombresia)

1. The Opportunity

2. Vision for Hafod y Llyn Isaf


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We are looking for individuals who have an interest in managing this picturesque small holding as an exemplar nature friendly farm by combining sensitive land management and conservation practices with agriculture for the principle benefit of nature to achieve what we call in the National Trust ‘High Nature Status’ (HNS), where the land is rich in wildlife and farmed sustainably. You will need to have experience and enthusiasm for the changes of running a nature friendly farming system within the current climate. You’ll bring a willingness to work in true partnership with us, in accordance with our nature conservation aims and objectives. Your ideas and drive will make a success of the holding and achieve the required outcomes.

We are looking for a Tenant….

….who shares our vision for wildlife and nature


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Hafod y Llyn Isaf lies within the secluded valley of Nantmor, alongside the river Glaslyn approximately 1.5 miles south of Beddgelert and 5 miles from Porthmadog and is accessed by a 1 mile lane which follows the Welsh Highland Railway. Hafod y Llyn was acquired by the National Trust in 1996 and is part of the 379.2ha Hafod Garegog Estate and forms part of the Trust’s Snowdonia portfolio. Previously the farm was ran as two separate holdings (Hafod y Llyn Isaf and Hafod y Llyn Uchaf) and now totals 44.5ha or thereabouts of pasture, rush pasture and wooded riparian corridors, let as a small holding to include a 2-bedroom farmhouse and a small range of farm buildings. Hafod y Llyn Isaf is largely undesignated, however it sits between the Glaslyn SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and the Hafod Garegog NNR (National Nature Reserve). The Glaslyn SAC is notable for salmonid, eel, and lamprey populations, as well as species rich grasslands, and wet woodland carrh. The Hafod Garegog NNR is notable for its temperate oak rainforest habitats (lichens, bryophytes, bats, tree-nesting birds) as well as rich invertebrate and plant diversity in the open bogs, particularly the Small red damselfly and the Silver studded blue butterfly, both Red Data Book species. The farmland here is extremely diverse in habitat types and plant species recorded. Wildlife is also abundant, kingfisher, osprey, mandarin ducks, otters, and badgers breed on or near to the farm. Some of the meadows at Hafod y Llyn represent the most diverse and unique examples under National Trust management along the Glaslyn catchment, boasting locally rare species such as Whorled Caraway, Michaelmas daisy, Marsh cinquefoil, and Restharrow.

The National Trust is an independent conservation and access charity which cares for special places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ We are supported by some 5 ½ million members and 65,000 volunteers. We are one of Europe’s leading conservation bodies and one of the largest landowners in the UK, managing approximately 247,900 hectares or around 1.5% of land across England, Wales and Northern Ireland for the benefit of the nation. The National Trust manages land to achieve an array of objectives ranging from the protection of historic landscapes and features to creating and managing wildlife habitats, with sustainable farming an important mechanism.

3.1 Background to Hafod Y Llyn Isaf

3.2 Background to the National Trust


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Conservation of biodiversity and landscape has always been part of the Trust’s charitable purpose. The National Trust is committed to delivering “sustainable land management, meeting society’s needs today while keeping land and its resources in good condition for ever, for everyone” We are looking to increase the quality of our agricultural land for nature to help deliver towards our target for at least 50% of our land to be High Nature Status by 2021.

The land extends to 44.54ha and is made up of pasture and grazed scrub. All fields are flat or gently sloping and generally of a silty loam soil. Most of the fields along the River Glaslyn are separated by open drains which are managed as part of the Llanfrothen Internal Drainage District. However, Fields 4309 and 4691 are a flood risk and field 4309 is pure sand. Both fields have exceptionally high plant diversity and interest. The farm needs to be actively managed to control invasives, primarily Himalayan Balsam with an initial heavy pulse of work in 2020 and 2021 reducing the cover of invasives. An annual control will be necessary long term. A new agro-forestry plantation has been created over some species poor rush pastures using tree species to benefit nature. The maps titled ‘Management Restrictions – Hafod y Llyn Isaf’ used along with the document ‘Key habitats and Recommendations’ attached to this report outlined the desired outcomes for each individual field parcel.

3.3 The Holding

3.4 The Farmhouse


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The 2 bedroom stone and slate roofed farmhouse underwent a major renovation project in 2014 with new carpets, redecoration and a new bathroom fitted in 2019. The accommodation includes: Ground floor Entrance door into hallway Living/dining room, 7.15m x 4.88m: open plan with central staircase to 1st floor, multifuel stove in living room, Utility room, 5.44m x 7.5m: plumping for washing machine, 2x radiators, external door Bathroom, 2.33mx 1.70m: Bath with shower and glass screen, toilet, sink and radiator Kitchen, 2.90 x 2.92m: Dark wood base and wall kitchen units, space for 600mmelectric cooker, stainless steel cooker hood, grey lino floorcovering, stainless steel single drainer unit, radiator, external stable door to front aspect. Small hallway: Housing a Worcester Central Heating boiler, grey lino flooring Bedroom 1, 4.83 x 2.75m: grey carpet, radiator, single glazed window to front elevation access to roof void, Bedroom 2, 4.86m x 3.24m: single glazed window to front elevation, skylight to rear elevation, access to roof void, radiator. External areas The property is approached having passed the farm buildings and continuing a short distance through open Hafod y Llyn Isaf farmland. Garden area to the side of the property with a small shed for housing the water filtration system. Services Mains electricity, private water supply via borehole (UV filters) and private drainage system. Oil fired central heating system and telephone connection subject to usual BT regulations. The tenant is responsible for servicing and repairs for the water supply system and drainage system. Council Tax and outgoings Payment of the council tax and all other outgoings will be the responsibility of the Tenant. The farmhouse is currently rated within Band D and the standard charge for 2020/2021 payable to Gwynedd County Council is £1,756.79. Energy Performance Certificate The EPC rating is E.


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Livestock housing is limited, and stock may need to be outwintered or housed elsewhere dependant on type and numbers. Small barn (nearest to house) with adjoining small yard with drystone wall: Drystone walls with asbestos moss-covered roof. This accommodated 2 owl boxes, both occupied, and other bird boxes. Barn adjoining stables: including cow shed and tack room. Stone with slate roof. 11.2m x 14.5m (36’ x 47’) total area.

Traditional Farm Buildings Stables for 3 horses. Timber with asbestos roof. Old dairy – Brick with asbestos, roof lean-to (barn adjoining stable) Isolation shed – Brick pebble dash, concrete floor and tin sheet roof. Small livestock building – brick with corrugated sheet roof and concrete floor Any tenant will be expected to conserve and protect features of historical interest from harm or alteration and would need to seek written permission from the National Trust prior to undertaking any alteration, modification or additions to any buildings.

3.5 Traditional Farm Buildings

3.6 Modern Farm Buildings


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Some areas of grazed wooded scrub and grazed wooded water course as coloured light green and light blue. Tree planting for a parcel of agro-forestry was done in early 2020 and this is shown in dark green on the attached map.

A small area of field 7499, 9297, 9511, 0105, 6902, 4192 and 4115 are included within the Glaslyn Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Hafod Gareggog National Nature Reserve (NNR), and the Glaslyn Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) A map of the designation is shown in the Appendices.

Hafod-y-llyn Isaf has only a small number of features of historic interest. To the north of the house is an old ruin, a small two roomed cottage, perhaps the original dwelling on the farm. Historic graffiti in the door reveal of the cottage perhaps gives clues to the names of previous tenants. To the south some other abandoned structures and walls are likely to be agricultural in origin, again replaced by the existing farm buildings further

3.7 Woodlands

3.8 Statutory Designations

3.9 Archaeology


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down the lane. The remains of stone built sheepfolds and dry stone walls can also be seen. These features are shown on early Ordnance Survey mapping which dates to the 1890’s. To date these features have not been mapped or recorded in detail and the history of the farm has not been researched. Stone should not be removed from these structures for use elsewhere without first discussing with the National Trust. The holding is being let without entitlements for BPS and any future tenant will need to source their own entitlements or obtain via the National Reserve if eligible. None of the land is subject to any Glastir scheme or similar. However future applications to schemes which enhance the environmental feature of the farm will be supported subject to consultation with the landlord and appropriate options being agreed.

Silage Slurry and Fuel Oil

Management restrictions are as per the plan titled ‘Management Restrictions – Hafod y Llyn Isaf’. The purpose of the plan is to not only outline the restriction, but a view of what would be developed on the land to improve its environmental status. A public footpath goes through the farm, via field SH5943 6688 (4S and 4N) then crosses the railway track and continues North along the farm access track. In addition, the Ffestiniog and Welsh highland Railway crosses through the farm which needs consideration for the management of the holding.

We are interested in hearing any proposals you may have for including diversification enterprises as part of your farm tender proposal. If you are including a diversification proposal as part of your tender, please include as much detail as you can of the relevant enterprise costs and income and any planning or legal considerations you have made.

3.12 Management Restrictions

3.13 Public access

3.14 Diversification

3.10 Basic Payment Scheme

3.11 Environmental Schemes – Glastir


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If we provide our consent as a Landlord to a diversification activity, we may need to issue a Licence to Diversify in addition to the Farm Business Tenancy for the Holding. The Trust recognises that a tenant may need or want to supplement their income off the holding, and this will not be a barrier to applicants. However, the delivery of the required land management outcomes must not be prejudiced by these other activities and applicants must be able to demonstrate how the various activities will work together to benefit Hafod y Llyn Isaf. Part of the farm lies within the Llanfrothen Internal Drainage District. These are operated under the Land Drainage Act 1991 and the maintenance of the drains to alleviate flooding and maintain the system. This is administered by Natural Resources Wales and an annual charge is raise based on the area of land within the drainage district. As such the contractor appointed to carry out the cleaning and maintained of the open drains have rights to enter the land and ensure that they are working effectively. The charges for 2019 was: £560.67 based on a total area of 32.72ha.

The Tenancy The agreement will be in the form of a standard National Trust Farm Business Tenancy and will be available for inspection via electronic copy for perspective tenants upon request. Commencement Date The holding will be let from the 1st October 2020 Duration The Tenancy will be for a 10 year term Break Clause The 10 year term will include a break clause in favour of either the landlord or the tenant on the 5th anniversary of the term date.

3.15 Off Farm Income

3.17 Tenancy Terms

3.16 Llanfrothen Internal Drainage District


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Rental Payments Rent will be payable half yearly in advance on the 1st October and the 1st April in each year with the first payment becoming payable on the 1st October 2020. Rent Reviews The National Trust reserves the right to carry out rent reviews of the property on the third anniversary of the start date to open market value. VAT Hafod y Llyn is Opted to Tax. As such, VAT will be charged on the tendered rent at the applicable rate (currently 20%). Insurance The National Trust will be responsible for insuring the buildings and landlord fixtures. The Tenant will be responsible for ensuring the Tenants improvements/contents/own possessions/machinery and public liability. Repairs (summary) The tenant will be responsible for internal repairs and decoration, maintaining the garden, all gates, boundaries and fences and the costs of servicing appliances The tenant will be responsible for ensuring that the septic tank is emptied at regular intervals as necessary and that the chimney is swept at least every 6 months. The tenant will be responsible for maintaining the access track from the council road. The landlord is responsible for maintenance to structure and roofs of farmhouse and buildings. Full details of the repairing responsibilities are stated within the draft tenancy agreement Subletting There will be no right to assign, sublet or part with possession of the whole or any part of the premises without prior agreement from the landlord.


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…High Nature Status


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Tender application forms are available to interested applicants on request. Applicants for the Tenancy of Hafod y Llyn Isaf must inspect the Holding before submitting a Tender. All applications should be submitted using the prescribed application forms which are to be signed, marked as Private & Confidential and either emailed to;- [email protected] or posted to: HAFOD Y LLYN ISAF FARM TENDER National Trust, Ysbyty Estate Office Dinas Betws y Coed Conwy LL24 0HF The deadline for receipt of all applications, by email or post, is 12 noon on 4th September 2020. Please note that the National Trust does not bind itself to accept the highest or any tender. The Trust shall not accept tenders from applicants who have not visited the Farm. Applicants should provide any relevant additional information required to substantiate and justify proposals. Applicants should complete full budget and cash flow projections for their proposals in addition to being willing to provide details of their financial and agricultural resources. Emphasis should be made on how you will deliver towards the farm vision

Viewing of the land is on a strict booking basis. Each booking will be spaced out to ensure no people meet on site. No members of the National Trust staff will be on hand to discuss matters on site. Any queries during the inspection can be directed to Gethin Evans via [email protected] who will respond in due course. Viewing of the house is not possible as this is currently occupied. Photos are available, along with dimensions, and we will produce a virtual tour video which can be shared with prospective tenants. Viewing of the house will be arranged with shortlisted tenants or prior to offer of tenancy only.

4.1 Application & Tender Process Details

4.2 Viewing


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Potential applicants should email [email protected] or telephone 07483 927075 to confirm a date and time to attend. It is important that appointments are made to ensure that all precautions can be made to limit the spread of COVID 19 and ensure social distancing. We recommend that you allocate up to half a day to fully inspect the land (and buildings). It is important that you follow all instructions provided and we respectfully request that dogs are not brought along to the farm viewing as there are livestock present on the land.

Shortlisting will be based upon the tender submissions and applicants will be notified whether they are to be invited for interview. Primary interviews will be held on Tuesday the 15th September 2020 and applicants should make sure that they will be available to attend if invited. It is envisaged that the tenancy will be offered to the successful candidate on 21st September 2020 with occupation commencing as soon as possible thereafter or as agreed between the parties.

We are looking for:

A willingness to work in partnership and collaboration with the National Trust. Ideals and enthusiasm to move Hafod y Llyn Isaf to an improved environmental

standard. A full understanding of and appreciation of the requirements, responsibilities,

administration and challenges of running a farm business in the current climate. A full understanding of Cross Compliance, Code of Good Agricultural Practice

and agricultural support scheme requirements. Experience of managing and delivering agri-environmental agreement and other

environmental projects Evidence of a sound financial base to provide the necessary working capital

If you are making an application, we recommend that you review our web content below for top tips and to get to know us, our strategy and our vision. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/farm-lettings

4.3 Interviews

4.5 Making an Application, Top Tips

4.4 Essential & Desirable Skills and Resources


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https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farming https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/seven-of-our-best-nature-friendly-farms

These external links may also help you craft your farm proposal and vision for nature. https://www.nffn.org.uk/ https://farmwildlife.info The purpose of these is to be used only as a guide hence meaning that it does not comprise or form part of any offer or contract. All descriptions, dimensions, references to condition and necessary permission for use and occupation are given in good faith and are believed to be correct but any intending tenant should not rely upon then as statements of representations of fact and must satisfy him/herself by personal inspection or otherwise of the correctness of each item. No responsibility can be accepted for any expense incurred by an applicant in inspecting the property and preparing submissions, irrespective of whether it is let or withdrawn. Your privacy is important to us, so we’ll always keep your details secure and never use them for marketing communications that you haven’t agreed to receive. Our full Privacy Policy can be found online at; - https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/privacy-policy We may need to collect personal data from you to enable us to communicate with you and send details of the Farm Open Days and the tender process if requested. Should you proceed to make an application for the farm tenancy, we will only use the data you provide for the purposes of evaluating applications and selecting a Tenant. Information you submit may be retained in accordance with our Retention Schedule. If at any stage, you change your mind and don’t want us to hold your information anymore please email [email protected]

5. Disclaimer

5.2 GDPR


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Tenancy Map

6. Appendices


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Documents

HAFOD Y LLYN ISAF Vision & Letting Particulars · Vision & Lettings Particulars – Hafod y Llyn Isaf 3 The National Trust invites management proposals and tenders for the Farm Business