Details of the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme have been made available by Defra. The FiPL is one of the elements of the Agricultural Transition in England. It will support farmers and the wider community in National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the Broads. Land outside of protected landscapes may be eligible but the project must benefit the protected landscape, or the protected landscape body’s objectives or partnership initiatives.
FiPL is not an agri-environment scheme. It will fund one-off projects that;
- Support nature recovery
- Mitigate the impacts of climate change
- Provide opportunities for people to enjoy the landscape and its cultural heritage
- Suport nature-friendly, sustainable farm businesses
The programme will run from July 2021 to March 2024. Applications for the first year of funding need to be made between 1st July 2021 and 31st January 2022. Application forms can be obtained from the protected landscape body where the project will take place.
Projects will be assessed, they need to provide value for money and meet at least one of the outcomes in the following 4 themes;
- Climate – more carbon sequestered or stored, flood risk reduced, landscape more resilient to climate change
- Nature – increased area of wildlife-rich habitats, more connectivity between habitats, increase in biodiversity and land managed better for biodiversity
- People – more opportunities for people and diverse audiences to explore, enjoy and understand the landscape i.e replacing stiles with gates on public footpaths for easier access. Increase in public engagement in land management (volunteering)
- Place – enhancement of the quality and character of the landscape. Historic features, conserved and enhanced i.e lime kilns or lead mining heritage. Increase in nature-friendly sustainable farm businesses which contribute to a thriving local economy i.e gathering data and evidence to help inform conservation and farming practices.
Payment rates will vary depending whether a commercial gain can be made through the project. If no commercial gain is identified then up to 100% of the costs could be available in support. Land can still be entered into ELM and CS as long as the same work is not being paid for twice. Those interested are advised to contact their local protected landscape body. Further information can be found on the Defra website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/funding-for-farmers-in-protected-landscapes