Grants

Grants may be available for fencing, where the fencing is required as part of other management work. This may include tree planting, natural regeneration, woodland restoration, hedge or bank restoration, dry stone walling or access work. The details below are subject to change.

Countryside Stewardship Scheme

In England, the Countryside Stewardship Scheme is administered by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and operates in all areas apart from Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs). Anybody who owns or manages land may apply, including farmers, non-farming land owners and managers, voluntary bodies, local authority and community groups. Applicants must have control of management of the land for the length of the agreement, which is usually ten years.

Each item of work attracts a set payment, with capital payments for work such as fencing paid on completion of work. Land management payments are made annually. Post and wire fencing to protect a newly laid hedge, for example, would attract payment of 80p/metre. Fencing against sheep or rabbits may also qualify. All fencing work must be done to the relevant British Standard. Work must not start until the agreement has been finalised. For further details, contact your local DEFRA Regional Service Centre.

In Scotland, the Countryside Premium Scheme is operated by the Scottish Office Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries Department, and in Wales, Tir Cymen is operated by the Countryside Council for Wales. For Northern Ireland, contact the Environment and Heritage Service of the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland for advice on similar schemes.

Access

Grants or materials may be available towards the replacement or repair of gates or stiles on public rights of way, or on other paths used for public access. Contact the rights of way officer or countryside officer at your local authority for further information.

Other grants

For voluntary bodies and individuals wanting to carry out environmental work, grants may be available from a variety of sources. Contact your nearest office of The Conservation Volunteers for further advice. We also publish an annual list titled Grants and Awards Factsheet.

The Countryside Agency (England) publish Grants and payment schemes – a guide to grants and payments from the Countryside Agency. The Countryside Council for Wales, Scottish Natural Heritage or the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland should be contacted for information relating to their areas.