£150m in farming grants now fully allocated
© Adobe Stock All £150m of capital grant funding has now been allocated, following a record-breaking five weeks in which more than 8,000 farmers submitted applications for support.
The rapid uptake marks the fastest response to a government farming grant to date, with the full budget now committed.
The funding was part of Defra’s Plan for Change to back British farming, drive growth, and support the transition to nature-friendly practices.
See also: Farmers advised to act early on winter slurry storage
Popular grants included those aimed at improving water quality, such as yard improvements to reduce run-off and fencing to protect watercourses.
Daniel Zeichner, minister for food security and rural affairs, said: “We know that for farm businesses to thrive, they need to be profitable, and we will ensure that every penny of the budget reaches farmers.
“I am delighted to see such strong demand in our capital grants offer, and strong momentum behind nature-friendly farming.”
The government said grants will also fund biodiversity measures, including hedgerow planting and habitat restoration, as well as shelterbelts to improve air quality and farm resilience.
Approved applicants will receive reimbursement once the agreed-upon work is completed and claims are submitted with the required evidence.
NFU reaction
NFU deputy president David Exwood said: “We recognise the capital grants scheme budget is limited and now fully allocated.
“In the past, transparency has been entirely lacking, and we’ve long called for clearer communication to help farmers and growers plan.
“On that basis, the recent timely updates from Defra have been welcome and must continue going forward.”
Environmental Land Management scheme funding for farmers in England will increase by 150% over the next four years, says Defra, rising from £800m in 2023-24 to £2bn in 2028-29.
A total of £11.8bn will be invested in sustainable farming and food production over this Parliament.
The Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship scheme opens in September for invited applicants, with further updates on the Sustainable Farming Incentive expected shortly.