Agricultural Grants & Agri-Environment Schemes Update

The agricultural support landscape continues to evolve at pace, and with further change expected over the coming year, it has never been more important for farmers and landowners to stay informed and prepared.

While new schemes offer opportunity, the reality is that funding is increasingly targeted and competitive, particularly in the context of wider economic pressures and the UK’s growing national debt to GDP ratio. With this in mind, early planning and professional advice will be key to securing support.

Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier applications are now open, with many new agreements due to commence in early 2026. However, access to this scheme is more selective than ever. Higher Tier is now firmly focused on high priority farms and those delivering the greatest environmental benefit in areas such as biodiversity, water quality and historic environment protection. For eligible holdings, the scheme remains a valuable long-term funding mechanism, but successful applications will depend on strong evidence, well-designed proposals and alignment with national and local priorities.

Alongside this, the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) is expected to reopen later this summer, in June for ‘small farms’ and those without existing ELM agreements and September for all farmers. SFI remains a cornerstone of the government’s Environmental Land Management (ELM) approach, offering more flexible options that can fit alongside commercial farming operations. While further refinements to the scheme are anticipated, it continues to provide an accessible entry point for farmers looking to be rewarded for sustainable land management practices. However, Defra have been clear that they are reviewing payment rates, available actions, and limits. Being ready with up-to-date land data and a clear understanding of which actions suit your business will help ensure a smooth application process when the scheme reopens.

The Countryside Stewardship Capital Grant Scheme also remains an important funding route, particularly for infrastructure and practical measures aimed at improving environmental outcomes. However, for many water quality-related items, support from a Catchment Sensitive Farming Officer is often required. Early engagement with advisers and local officers is essential to avoid delays and to ensure applications meet scheme requirements. We expect this scheme to reopen for applications later this year.

Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) continues to offer valuable opportunities for farms and estates located within National Parks and National Landscapes (formerly Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty). The scheme supports projects that deliver environmental, cultural and climate benefits, while also supporting farm viability. Demand remains high, and funding decisions are locally driven, making early discussion and well-structured proposals particularly important.

Meanwhile, delinked payments are now firmly in the final stages of the transition away from the Basic Payment Scheme. The first £30,000 of a claimants payment is reduced by 98%, any amount over that will have a 100% reduction.

If you would like to discuss how these schemes may apply to your land or how best to prepare for upcoming opportunities, our team would be pleased to help. Early advice can make all the difference between a missed opportunity and a successful, well-funded application.