MORE CHANGE ON THE HORIZON

The Amenity Forum has said in terms of weed, pest and disease management, significant policy change is afoot.

With withdrawal from the EU, new regulations are emerging regarding the approval and use of plant protection products. In addition a new UK National Action Plan is to be issued setting out the requirements going forward.

The Forum says we already know that this will have a major focus on integrated management approaches and greater enforcement and standards. Then there has been the implementation of the Official Controls (Plant Protection Products) Regulations 2020 (OCR). This has already legally required all suppliers of plant protection products (PPPs) to register their locations and stock carried. From June 2022, such a legal responsibility will also apply to all users of PPPs backed up by increased inspection and enforcement. 

Early in 2022, the Amenity Forum is holding a series of Updating Events across the UK to address such policy issues and their implications along with presentations on topical matters impacting upon amenity management. The programmes will also include presentations and demonstrations from host organisations as well as chance to network with fellow professionals.

Professor John Moverley, Chairman of the Amenity Forum, said "Our free Updating Events are always popular but in 2022 take on even greater significance with all the changes impacting upon the sector."

Whilst free, pre-registration is needed by contacting Kate at . The locations and dates are as follows:

ENGLAND

• Knaresborough, Yorkshire, 9th February
• Manchester City FC, 24th February
• Leicester City FC, 25th February
• London, 9th March
• Throws Farm, Essex, 17th March  

NORTHERN IRELAND

• Belfast, 23rd March         

SCOTLAND

• Edinburgh, 4th March

WALES

• Cardiff, 16th February