WHAT SCHEMES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR GRANT AID?

Native tree, shrub and hedge planting in the countryside

Tree surgery to important veteran/landmark trees

Restoration of important hedgerows in the countryside.  A once and for all grant to bring hedgerows back into management.

Restoration of farm ponds

Restoration of woodland

WHAT CRITERIA IS APPLIED?

All schemes must be of value to the quality of the landscape when seen from public roads, footpaths etc.

Plantings must be of predominately native species

Schemes must be in accordance with an agreed specification.

Preference will be given to schemes forming part of an overall conservation programme.

SCHEMES THAT ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR GRANT AID

Any scheme required as a condition of planning permission

Schemes in private gardens and in built up areas. (Certain schemes may be considered in large gardens in the countryside)

Any scheme which is eligible for grant aid from any other source ie:- Forestry commission or Defra.

WHAT LEVEL OF GRANT MAY BE OFFERED

For planting schemes the grant will be in one or two forms:-

(i)         For schemes in excess of 100 plants, a maximum cash grant of     40%.

(ii)        For schemes of up to 100 plants all plants and materials (ie:- rabbit guards etc) will be supplied by the District Council.

For all other schemes, a maximum grant of 30% towards actual expenditure.

Note: The grant will cover the cost of all plants and materials, plus labour only if a contractor is engaged.  The VAT element is not eligible.

HOW DO I APPLY?

A grants application form is available from the District Council along with a list of contractors who will be willing to offer quotations for the scheme.  These contractors will also prepare and submit your application on your behalf should you so wish.  

A copy of the  application form is available via 'useful links' on the top right side of this page.

Prepare a sketch plan of your proposals (This must be adequate enough to enable the site to be readily located.)

Note: Schemes must be approved, in writing before work commences.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

When the District Council has approved your application you will receive a formal letter advising of the level of grant offered, or arrangements for collection/delivery of plants and materials.

On completion of the scheme it will be inspected by an Officer of the Council.

Where cash grants are being paid, payment will only be made on submission of receipted invoices.  If the actual gross amount is less tan that originally quoted, the grant will be reduced pro rata.  The amount cannot, however, be increased if the actual cost is greater.

All recipients will be required to enter into an agreement with the District Council, undertaking to properly manage the scheme.  The District council will also carry out periodic inspections (by arrangement) to ensure conditions of grants are being adhered to and to offer advice on management if required.