The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has responded to the government’s Spending Review, urging policymakers to recognize the critical role of environmental horticulture in delivering essential green infrastructure. Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, commented on the announcement, highlighting the challenges faced by the sector and the need for sustained support.
Barnes noted that the recent Autumn Budget had a significant impact on HTA members, many of whom are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and family businesses. “The Autumn Budget hit our members particularly hard, with rising workforce costs, uncertainty around key Defra-led funding schemes, and proposed inheritance tax changes that our data shows would be a lose-lose for both the Treasury and the industry,” she said.
While the Spending Review focused primarily on the NHS and large-scale projects, Barnes emphasized that environmental horticulture should not be overlooked. “Our sector is ideally placed to deliver the essential green infrastructure that is vital alongside grey infrastructure,” she explained. “This includes boosting UK-grown growth, supporting environmental goals, and building healthier, wealthier, and more resilient communities. Green spaces must be factored into planning from day one.”
The HTA is awaiting further details on funding schemes and innovation support following the Spending Review. Barnes called on the government to sustain momentum in removing trade friction through a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) arrangement with the EU. “This cannot come soon enough and must avoid adding further costs to a sector already under pressure,” she said.
Despite a warm spring that lifted the garden sector, Barnes warned that investment-driven growth has not been unlocked. “There is a danger that this Spending Review will once again fall short of unlocking our full potential,” she concluded.
