Farming in North Oxfordshire and countryside lifestyles.
Farming and rural settlements in North Oxfordshire are deeply rooted in tradition, offering a picturesque blend of rolling hills, patchwork fields, and charming villages. The region is known for its fertile land, ideal for arable farming, with crops like wheat, barley, and rapeseed flourishing across vast expanses. Livestock farming, particularly sheep and cattle, adds to the rural landscape’s character.
Local farms often adopt sustainable practices, blending modern techniques with age-old methods to preserve the environment. Farmers’ markets in towns like Chipping Norton, Woodstock, Deddington and Banbury showcase fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally reared meat, reflecting the area’s agricultural bounty.
Life in the countryside here is peaceful and closely tied to the seasons, with community events like harvest festivals celebrating rural heritage. Walking paths meander through scenic meadows and ancient woodlands, offering residents and visitors a chance to connect with nature, while historic stone cottages and traditional pubs highlight the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
The Family Farm Tax & why we oppose it.
North Oxfordshire farmers are currently facing unprecedented challenges. They play a crucial role in addressing climate change, revitalising the countryside, and providing high-quality food. However, they are now facing a set of new obstacles due to the Government’s actions.
Farmland currently benefits from an exemption from inheritance tax through “Agricultural Property Relief” (APR). However, the Labour Chancellor announced in that this exemption will be reduced. Starting April 2026, a 20% tax will be imposed on agricultural assets exceeding £1 million. This could mean that two parents could potentially limit the tax to assets over £3 million if they leave a farm to their children, as the existing inheritance tax-free threshold is £125,000.
The Government claims that this change is necessary to fund public services. However, the Family Farm Tax is projected to generate only about £115 million annually, which is less than 0.01% of government spending and less than 0.3% of all tax increases announced by Rachel Reeves.
Local Conservatives are opposing this Family Farm Tax because it could severely impact many farmers and harm rural communities across North Oxfordshire. Many local farming families own property valued highly on paper but earn below the minimum wage. They have faced income cuts while energy, fertiliser, and feed costs have risen, and they are also dealing with the severe effects of more frequent high-impact weather events.