Thousands of farmers will benefit from a £30 million boost to
payments received for nature-friendly farming practices under the
Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme. This uplift recognises and
rewards the vital role farmers play in restoring habitats and
protecting England's iconic landscapes.
From 1 January 2025, payment rates for 157 HLS
options will rise, rewarding farmers already delivering for
nature – particularly in uplands and other sensitive areas where
they protect rare species, restore habitats, and maintain
traditional countryside features.
Farming Minister, said:
Farmers are the backbone of our countryside, and they're leading
the charge to restore nature.
This £30 million uplift in HLS payments recognises their
essential role in protecting our environment – work that's
crucial for long-term food security, boosting productivity, and
tackling climate change.
By backing them with fairer rewards, we're investing in a
stronger and more sustainable future for British farming, helping
to drive growth in rural communities as part of our Plan for
Change.
Following the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed's, pledge at the
NFU Conference, this funding brings the HLS payment rates closer
to those offered under our Environmental Land Management
schemes.
This builds on a record £5 billion investment into farming, as
well as the appointment of former NFU President Baroness to recommend new reforms
to boost farmers profits.
We also have a record number of farmers enrolled in farming
schemes, with more money being paid to farms than ever
before.
Payments will be automatically increased, landing from December
2025.The government is committed to targeting public funds
wisely, making farming more profitable and sustainable for
decades to come as we deliver on the Plan for Change.
