Double-digit cost inflation is hitting every single enterprise of British agriculture, casting doubt on the sector’s ability to maintain food supplies in the year ahead with animal feed, fuel and fertiliser prices astronomically high. Cashflow now poses an existential threat to many businesses and a real risk to food security.

Poultry farmers are being challenged like never before, but the wheels of the agricultural industry must keep turning.  Protein rich products such as chicken and eggs are essential in an environment where food security globally is being challenged.  However, investment in anything new is hugely compromised at this time.

Stephen Jaques, Managing Director of Jaques Int Limited, said: “Most poultry farmers are seeking similar goals, efficiency, sustainability and profitability. However, with external forces and inflationary pressure at play, having the disposable income for investment in new housing isn’t always a viable option, refurbishment is therefore a popular alternative.

“With agriculture being challenged like never before, poultry farmers are requesting information on refurbishment. It can cost up to 60% more to build from scratch, compared to the average refurbishment, making the latter a viable option to many who need to improve efficiencies within tight budgets.”

COSTS

  • Depending on the extent of the refurbishment works, it can cost between £3/sq ft – £8sq/ft to refurbish a shed but these costs vary, and all works are quoted on an individual basis. However, a complete new build will cost at least £22/sq ft.
  • Refurbishing poultry sheds does come with some significant tax advantages. 100% tax relief is available on a repaired building. If the cost involves removing asbestos this goes up to 150% tax relief.

FEASABILITY

Inevitably not all poultry housing can be refurbished. Things to consider are:

  • Flooring, often a damaged floor will mean the shed needs a total rebuild.
  • The height of the eaves for modern machinery. Buildings can be increased in height during refurbishment.
  • Economies of scale with existing floor space.
  • Does the building contain asbestos?
  • Red Tractor Standards & RSPCA Assurance Schemes – existing building specifications can be modernised to meet current welfare requirements.
  • Insulation levels – quantities can be increased.
  • Fixtures, fittings and ventilation.
  • Additional bio-security measures.
  • Planning should not be required.

From headquarters in Herefordshire, the Jaques family have been successfully designing and constructing high quality poultry buildings across the UK for over 40 years. Stephen Jaques and his brother Chris have unrivalled knowledge of construction in the poultry industry.