The government has confirmed it has temporarily closed new applications for capital grants. It has stated that this is due to ‘unprecedented demand’ and a desire to ensure funding is available where it is most needed. Defra have also confirmed that applications that have already been submitted will be placed on hold.
Grant funding will still be available for woodland tree health grants, capital grant plans and management plans, and higher tier capital grants. However, the most popular options such as fencing, hedging, slurry stores and concreting are all now closed.
There is no information on when capital grant funding will re-open but I think it is reasonable to assume it will not come back in the same format as previous years, if at all. Those wishing to take advantage of grant funding will need to look at how the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) can meet their needs.
For more information or to discuss your options, please call the office.