DISUSED farm buildings could be turned into prestigious business bases, thanks to a massive cash boost provided by Yorkshire Forward.

The regional development agency is to free up nearly £900,000 to help regenerate the county's rural economy, under the terms of what it calls the Redundant Building Grant.

Now, Yorkshire Forward is doubling its efforts to ensure that farmers and other landowners are able to access the fund before the deadline of September 30.

Andy Wallhead, area development manager for Yorkshire Forward, said: "This is an extremely valuable extra source of funding to help create new uses for redundant buildings which could generate new enterprises or accommodation.

"Applications are welcome from people from rural areas, including farmers."

The scheme has already proved successful, with several projects approved so far this year.

Among them is the creation of four jobs at Ebberston, following the conversion of a disused farm building into workspace for furniture design and manufacture.

A similar project is under way at Bentham, and a disused warehouse at Hornsea is being turned into a workshop unit for a soft furnishing business.

Recently completed is a project at Aske, a stately home near Richmond, where a late Victorian stable block on the estate has been restored to its original glory while providing 20,000 sq ft of business units.

New brochures are now available outlining how to apply for funds.

For a building to qualify for assistance, it must be completely unused or unusable in its current state. Grants cannot be used for pure refurbishment where the use of the building will not be changed.

The building must be used for business purposes once the works are completed, though not for agricultural or horticultural use.

Eligible projects cover conversion or refurbishment including upgrading of mains services, to provide facilities for manufacturing, crafts or service businesses, office based activities, tourism and leisure, such as quality-serviced overnight accommodation, and retail outlets, including village shops.

The agency will consider applications from individuals, partnerships, limited companies, co-operatives or charitable trusts as either owners or tenants.

Tenants must have a fixed-term lease with at least five years unexpired and written consent for the proposed works from their landlords.

To qualify for funding from the current allocation, completed applications must be received by September 30.

For further information on this and other grants, farmers are urged to phone Claire Jackson, of Yorkshire Forward's North Yorkshire office, on 01904 693335.