Farmers are now eligible to apply for grants aimed at enhancing freshwater habitats.
Thanks to the recently established Water Restoration Fund, local organisations can now submit proposals to secure financial assistance for initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall water environment.
This fund has been established using proceeds from environmental fines and penalties imposed on water companies from April 2022 to October 2023.
What is covered?
The Water Restoration Fund offers grants to support projects which aim to improve the water environment of rivers, headwaters, lakes, canals, ponds, wetlands and estuaries.
This fund offers two types of grant, development grants ranging from £75,000 to £250,000 and delivery grants ranging from £500,000 to £2 million.
The funding is being allocated to projects by the region, this ensures that the money is improving areas where the most environmental damage has occurred.
Applying for a grant
Applications are open from the 9th April 2024 for 8 weeks, the deadline to apply being the 7th June 2024. We recommend reading the Water Restoration Find guidance on GOV.UK before you start the application process.
Farmers can apply for the grant if they receive funding through the government’s land management schemes, such as the sustainable farming incentive. The grant cannot be used for projects which have already been paid for.
Grants are due to be awarded at the end of July 2024.
How can we help?
FGS Pilcher is skilled in providing practical solutions to wetland creation and management, as well as the construction of ponds, lakes and reservoirs. Using our skilled and experienced workforce with specialist equipment, we can undertake water restoration projects which enhance water quality and benefit the environment.
Contact us today to see how we can help get your water restoration project up and running.
