As the UK’s environmental horticulture sector braces for financial challenges, the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) is calling on the government to act. With the Spring Forecast set for 26 March, the industry is seeking urgent policy changes and support to safeguard jobs, green spaces, and economic growth. Without intervention, businesses face mounting costs, trade barriers, and workforce shortages that could hinder future expansion.
Spring Forecast: A Crucial Moment for Horticulture
The upcoming Spring Forecast is more than just an economic update—it’s a lifeline for the horticulture industry. The sector contributes £38 billion annually to the UK economy and supports 720,000 jobs. With proper backing, this figure could rise to £51.2 billion by 2030, according to Oxford Economics.
However, the Autumn Budget 2024 introduced costly changes that hit businesses hard:
- Increases in National Living Wage and National Insurance contributions
- Adjustments to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief
- Higher costs due to rising inflation and trade barriers
For many horticulture businesses, these financial burdens leave little room to invest in growth, staff, or innovation. HTA Chief Executive Fran Barnes warned that without government action, companies will struggle to stay afloat.
Tax Changes and Costs Threaten Green Growth
Horticulture plays a key role in climate resilience and public health, yet businesses are under pressure. HTA is urging the government to take action, including:
- Reviewing harmful tax changes from the last budget
- Securing a UK-EU plant health agreement to ease trade barriers
- Investing in green skills and workforce development
- Funding peat-free growing alternatives
Beyond economics, urban green spaces save the NHS over £800 million in avoided health costs. HTA argues that funding horticulture now will pay off long-term for the economy and public well-being.
The industry awaits the Spring Forecast, hoping for real change. Without it, many fear they may not survive another year.
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