News - North and Letherby

DEFRA’s current priorities

On Tuesday 11th November, Emma Reynolds was questioned by the Commons EFRA Committee.

We learned that DEFRA’s policy direction remains broadly steady, with a growing focus on how farming profitability and environmental improvements can support the government’s wider growth agenda.

Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier agreements extended

Farming Minister, Dame Angela Eagle, has confirmed that farmers/landowners with a Mid Tier CS Agreement that is due to end on 31st December 2025 will be emailed in the coming months with a one-year extension offer.

WALES Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS)

The Basic Payment Scheme is now being phased out in Wales, but the new Sustainable Farming Scheme demands much more information be provided and management requirements followed.

Farming Innovation Programme Funding 2025

DEFRA have announced 2 new rounds of the Farming Innovation Programme will open this autumn.

Rights Over Land for Electricity Infrastructure – Code of Practice

James has been involved with this from inception to publication, and we’re proud of the collective effort to produce this best practice guidance.

Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) to re-open and Capital Grants close to closing

Defra has this week announced that Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) will open for applications in September 2025, and 50% of the available funding for Capital Grants has already been allocated.

SFI 2024 Scheme Re-opened

The Sustainable Farming Incentive Expanded Offer (SFI 2024) has now re-opened for applications from certain eligible applicants, who the RPA have written to. For all other farmers, SFI remains closed for applications.