Applications are now open for the second round of Slurry Infrastructure grants, worth £74 million and building on the £34 million made available in Round 1.
The grant forms part of the Government’s manifesto commitment to invest £2.4 billion annually in farming and is a key component of the Plan for Water, which sets out more investment and stronger regulation to tackle every source of water pollution.
The scheme offers cattle and pig farms grants of £25,000 - £250,000 to upgrade their slurry storage, helping farmers to make better use of organic fertilisers while cutting pollution and their input costs.
Round 2 has also been significantly improved based on feedback from farmers and industry, with new items and flexibilities designed to support different farm models and increase environmental outcomes.
Farmers have until 17 January 2024 to submit an online application, which they can do at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/slurry-infrastructure-grant-round-2-applicant-guidance
To streamline planning permission, DEFRA, Natural England, and the Environment Agency will also provide written assurances and advice to Local Planning Authorities to support planning applications for grant funded slurry stores.
Later this winter, a further round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund will open, which will offer smaller grants for slurry management equipment.
Julian Smith said, “The Government is committed to supporting our farmers to be profitable and resilient.
“It’s crucial we put the right measures in place, always adjusting schemes like this in response to farmer feedback.
“I’d strongly encourage eligible farmers to apply for this latest round of funding if they haven’t already done so.”
