Natural Resources Wales (NRW) are planning to significantly increase fees on farmers for services, with most of the changes set to apply to one-off application fees.
One example is the cost of a one-off application to remove water, which is set to rise from £135 to £6,327.
The proposed changes were outlined in a consultation, and the huge fee increase is opposed by NFU Cymru who are “dismayed” by the decision.
James said:
“This is a bitter blow for farmers across Mid Wales who are already facing huge difficulties.
“Our farming communities need help and support in the face of a tough global situation, not being forced to shell out more cash for NRW.
“Labour Ministers in Cardiff Bay must do all they can to put a stop to this and actually stand up for farmers across Wales.”