Snowfall damage claim deadline is extended to include March

THE Scottish Government announced this week an extension of the compensation claim period for farm buildings that collapsed due to heavy snowfalls.

Originally, the 3 million government pot of cash was limited to buildings that had suffered in the period up to the end of January.

But with extensive damage being caused by more snowfalls in middle and late February, and some buildings having been damaged in the last week of 2009, the government has extended the deadlines.

While welcoming the news, NFU Scotland reminded those businesses looking to make use of the 6,000 available under the scheme that to qualify for support, costs related to replacement of temporary structures or to providing alternative accommodation need to be incurred before the end of March.

Claims must then be submitted by the end of April. Borders MP Michael Moore also welcomed the extension of the claim period.

"The Borders was one of the areas hit hardest – and longest – by the snow and this announcement will provide our local farmers with a welcome boost," he said.