Keep up to date with the latest Stags news
The government has announced a simplified 2018 Countryside Stewardship programme, which includes both changes to the Mid-Tier schemes and confirms that the hedgerows and boundaries grant will be available again in the New Year.
The new system will have four additional offerings aimed at arable, lowland, upland and mixed farmers with a range of tailored options for each to pick from set categories.
Sally Blowey from Stags Professional Services department says, “This part of the scheme is uncompetitive so applicants can be assured that they will be offered an agreement if they meet the eligibility checks. This certainty along with a simplified online application process has made the scheme much more attractive and should certainly be considered if you are not already in a scheme.”
The hedgerow and boundary grant will be available in the New Year, with the maximum grant each business can apply for increasing to £10,000.
Sally states, “This is a great opportunity to carry out improvements to your boundaries with options including hedgelaying, stone wall restoration, coppicing and earth bank restoration. The grant is paid on a fixed rate per metre and agreement holders have in the past had between 18 months to two years to complete the work.”
If you are interested in finding out more about the above grants, please contact Stags Professional Services department.
