Countryside Stewardship Capital Grants
We are pleased to inform you that DEFRA has today announced that Countryside Stewardship Capital Grants will be returning, alongside other key announcements relating to the Farming Equipment & Technology Fund as well as the new 2025 Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier offering.
This comes after a temporary suspension to the Capital Grants scheme in November 2024 due to unprecedented demand. The funding, now secured by the department, ensures that the 4,040 applications previously on hold will now be processed in accordance with the guidance at the time of submission.
Key Updates to the Capital Grants Scheme:
Spending Caps Introduced: To promote equal access to its schemes, DEFRA has reintroduced category-specific caps which will apply to any new applications once the scheme re-opens:
£25,000 for water quality improvements
£25,000 for air quality enhancements
£25,000 for natural flood management projects
£35,000 for boundaries, trees, and orchards initiatives
These caps aim to ensure that smaller farms and high-priority projects receive adequate support. Notably, applications submitted before the suspension will not be subject to these new limits.
Rolling Application Window: The scheme will now accept applications throughout the year, allowing for continuous access to funding opportunities.
Next Steps for Applicants:
For Pending Applications: If your application was placed on hold during the suspension, no action is required on your part. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will process your application and contact us upon approval.
For New Applicants: Those who did not apply prior to the suspension will have the opportunity to submit applications when the scheme reopens later this year. We will provide updates as soon as applications resume.
Other Announcements & How We Can Help:
Beyond the Capital Grants scheme, DEFRA continues to offer several other funding opportunities:
Woodland Management Plans: Assistance for sustainable woodland management practices.
Countryside Stewardship (Higher Tier): Funding for complex environmental projects with substantial benefits. Announcements today have confirmed
Sustainable Farming Incentive: Support for adopting environmentally sustainable land management practices, promoting soil health, water quality, and biodiversity.
Farming Equipment & Technology Fund: This Spring, one round of the FETF will be launched, offering grants of between £1,000 and £25,000.
With farming businesses facing increasing financial and regulatory pressures, particularly in light of the Autumn Statement, we recognise the challenges this creates for long-term planning and investment. While this announcement may not come close to resolving concerns, we hope it provides a small amount of clarity during challenging times.
Should you have any further questions, we are well placed to assist you in making the most of the current opportunities, helping our clients to:
✔ Identify the best funding opportunities for their business
✔ Prepare applications that meet all requirements
✔ Ensure compliance with scheme conditions both now and in the future
✔ Maximise grant funding to enhance farm productivity
With the Capital Grants scheme back in action, now is the time to plan ahead. If you need support with your application or want to explore your options, then we would be more than happy to help.
Sam Kelly
07777 696080
Charlie Davies
07904 601104
Alfie Rumsey
07399 117257
Office 01454 614624
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