CORNWALL Farmers has announced its plans for the future — including proposals to close its branches at Launceston, Holsworthy and Liskeard.

Throughout its 90 year history, Cornwall Farmers has constantly evolved and adapted to changes whether agricultural, economic or political. The co-operative is once again reshaping to ensure its strength and sustainability.

A spokesman said: "In the next three year period two things at least are certain. Shortly a general election will return a government with an inescapable responsibility to tackle the country's deficit. Most commentators anticipate a raft of changes brought to bear on public and private sectors. Increases in interest rates and employment taxes seem inevitable.

"Further, most agricultural sectors are already turning minds towards the possible changes to the Common Agricultural Policy in 2012 when the current Single Farm Payment regime reaches the end of the transition period. Since the removal of production based subsidies in 2005, 30 per cent of the regions dairy farmers have ceased trading and it is widely expected that a further 20 per cent will review their futures before the next CAP review. At the same time, many other farmers have continued to invest. The net result is a more sophisticated agricultural base in the region run by fewer but larger and more professional farmers."

Cornwall Farmers told the 'Post' that the needs of its members continue to evolve and Cornwall Farmers will evolve with them.

The company has announced a number of potential developments in anticipation of the changing needs of its members. Consultations have commenced with some 40 staff whose roles may be affected.

Three of the 16 existing branches are proposed to close in July 2010, namely Launceston, Holsworthy and Liskeard.

See this week's 'Post' for a full report.