Rural Business

Supporting Rural Business in Breckland

Helping our rural communities grow, adapt, and thrive

Farming and rural enterprise are at the heart of Breckland, from long-established family farms and agri-tech innovators to local producers, craftspeople and tourism ventures.

As the countryside changes, so do the challenges and opportunities facing those who live and work here.

That's where we come in.

Breckland District Council's Rural Business Advisor, Phil Garnham, is here to support the people who keep our rural economy running, offering practical advice, funding guidance and a friendly ear for the realities of life and work in the countryside.

Whether you're looking to diversify your farm, adapt to new regulations, develop a rural site or simply talk through an idea, Phil can connect you with the right funding, partners and expert support.

How we can help

Funding & grants: Guidance on what's available — from diversification projects to innovation schemes.
Regulatory change: Help navigating nutrient neutrality, biodiversity net gain and environmental opportunities.
Diversification & growth: Advice on turning rural land and skills into new income streams.
Networks & collaboration: Introductions to industry partners, local suppliers and relevant organisations.
Wellbeing & community: Connecting farmers and rural workers to trusted support networks such as the Farming Community Network (FCN) and local wellbeing initiatives.

Mental health in our rural communities

We know that living and working in the countryside can be both rewarding and isolating. Long hours, financial pressures and uncertainty can take their toll especially when support feels far away.

Breckland is committed to tackling that isolation. Through initiatives such as the Big Breckland Breakfast and partnerships with local charities and farming networks, we're helping to create spaces where people can talk, share experiences and access support without stigma.

Because behind every business is a person and healthy, resilient people who build healthy, resilient communities.

For further information on help availableview our Farming and Rural Support page.

A voice for rural business

Breckland's rural businesses deserve to be heard. By working closely with farmers, landowners, and local partners; including the NFU, CLA, Defra and the Environment Agency we ensure your experiences shape how rural policy and support are developed.

Get in touch

If you run a rural business in Breckland — or simply want to explore what's possible — contact Phil Garnham, Rural Business Advisor:

Other useful contacts:

Norfolk Farming & Wildlife Action Group (opens new window)

NFU (opens new window)

Environment Agency (opens new window)

Department for Environment Food Rural Affairs (opens new window)

Natural England (opens new window)

Country Land and Business Association (CLA) (opens new window)

Anglia Rural Consultants (opens new window)