Are you located within either an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), National Park or the Broads? If so, you might be eligible for to up to a 100% of grant funding, or between 40-80% funding if there is a commercial gain likely from the works.
This is a 3-year scheme with the first year of applications open between 1st July 2021 and 31st January 2022, with subsequent years thereafter. All projects must end by March 2024. The local Protected Landscapes Officer will assess applications of up to £5,000, applications above this will be judged by a local assessment panel to see how well the application meets the objectives of the scheme.
The aim of FIPL is to provide one-off funding to carry out projects, rather than entering into another agri-environment scheme. This could involve the restoration of ponds, dry stone walling, replacing stiles with gates and promoting connectivity between habitats.
The overall objectives are as follows:
- Support nature recovery
- Mitigate the impacts of climate change
- Provide opportunities for people to discover, enjoy and understand the landscape
- Support nature-friendly and sustainable farm businesses
Important to note, farmers who take part in the FIPL, can also sign up to one of the new Environmental Land Management Schemes (the Sustainable Farming Incentive, Local Nature Recovery Scheme and Landscape Recovery Scheme) when they start. Entering into a FIPL agreement may set you up well to assist with future environmental scheme applications.
Sworders is currently helping clients with FIPL applications so if you would like to discuss your options, please contact us.