Environmental farming grant scheme extended in East Anglia

Volunteers mulch new trees as part of a project funded by the Farming in Protected Landscapes grant scheme.

The scheme, which funds environmental projects on farms and other land in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and national parks, has been granted a 12-month extension to its original closing date of March 2024, meaning applications to the programme will be accepted until March 2025.

Launched in April 2021, the scheme has seen over £442,000 awarded to fund over 40 projects across Suffolk and Essex. Initiatives that have received a grant have a focus on climate, nature, people, or places, and include projects aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change and restoring biodiversity.

The programme has also benefitted projects aimed at improving people’s understanding and appreciation of the countryside, as well as protecting historic features, enhancing landscapes, and boosting business resilience.

The purpose of the Farming in Protected Landscapes grant scheme is to help the government achieve its environmental objectives as set out in the Environmental Improvement Plan.

Chancellor Chapman, chair of scheme’s application assessment panel, commented: “This is great news and we’re really pleased with this extension. We’ve got an additional one year to support new applications and get a whole range of new projects up and running throughout the Coast and Heaths and Dedham Vale.

The money provided through this grant programme will be able to make a real difference to farm businesses, nature, and the countryside within our wonderful AONBs in Suffolk & Essex.”

To find out more about the programme and to apply, please visit www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org/managing or www.dedhamvalestourvalley.org/managing or call 01394 445 227.