Discover how the England Woodland Creation Offer can assist you in establishing new woodlands through financial support.
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Funding opportunities for woodland creation in England
The England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) presents a significant opportunity for landowners and managers in England to obtain funding aimed at establishing new woodlands. This initiative seeks to enhance biodiversity while supporting local communities, promoting the creation of sustainable forestry that aligns with national standards.
Recent improvements to the user interface on the GOV.UK website have made the application process more accessible. The EWCO collection page acts as a central hub, providing applicants with detailed information about the various stages involved in applying for funding.
Understanding the funding structure
Under the Environmental Woodlands Creation Offer (EWCO), applicants may receive substantial financial support, with funding available up to £10,200 per hectare. In addition, applicants may qualify for extra payments of up to £12,700, depending on the effectiveness of the proposed woodland in promoting environmental recovery and providing community benefits.
This financial support aims to encourage the establishment of woodlands that enhance local ecosystems and address societal needs.
Understanding payment categories
Applicants have access to two main types of payments. The first is capital works payments, which support the establishment and maintenance of new woodlands. These payments cover standard costs associated with various activities necessary for woodland development.
The second category consists of funds designated for developing infrastructure essential for effective woodland management. This includes improving public access to these green spaces.
In addition to these one-time payments, applicants can receive a maintenance payment of £400 per hectare annually for a period of 15 years. This ongoing support is vital for nurturing young trees, ensuring their healthy growth and longevity.
Eligibility requirements and application process
Landowners, managers, and public entities in England are eligible to apply for the Environmental Land Management Scheme (EWCO). This includes individuals and organizations such as owner-occupiers, tenants, landlords, and businesses. Applications can be submitted independently or in collaboration, with one designated lead applicant responsible for overseeing the submission process.
It is crucial that the land meets certain criteria to qualify for the application. The land must be entirely situated in England, remain under the applicant’s control throughout the funding agreement, and span a minimum of 1 hectare. Furthermore, the land should be at least 20 meters wide, although exceptions may be made for specific cases, such as riparian buffers.
Application submission deadlines
Applications can be submitted year-round, but processing times typically range from 3 to 5 months. To coincide with the upcoming planting season, it is recommended to submit your application by the end of May. Submitting applications after October significantly reduces the likelihood of securing funding in time for planting.
Streamlined processing for suitable proposals
The Woodland Creation Fast Track (WCFT) option is available for projects in low sensitivity areas. This initiative by the EWCO aims to expedite the application review process. When applications meet all required criteria, decisions are typically made within 12 weeks.
Applicants should note that land already designated as woodland or currently under agricultural agreements is ineligible for EWCO funding. This policy ensures that funding supports the creation of new woodlands rather than competing with existing land uses. Additionally, it is crucial for applicants to verify that their proposals do not conflict with any other public funding schemes.
Maintaining compliance and responsibilities
After securing funding, it is essential to ensure that the land designated for woodland creation is not used for agricultural purposes. Transitioning this land to a non-agricultural designation may require notifying the Rural Payments Agency through the appropriate forms. Even if the land is part of an Environmental Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) agreement, applicants might still qualify for certain payments, provided they adhere to the necessary guidelines.
For tenants applying under the EWCO, holding management control of the land is vital throughout the entire duration of the agreement. Additionally, obtaining permission from the landlord is a crucial step in ensuring compliance with the terms of the agreement.
The England Woodland Creation Offer provides an important opportunity for individuals and organizations to positively impact the environment while receiving financial support for new woodland initiatives. Understanding the requirements and effectively navigating the application process allows applicants to contribute significantly to enhancing England’s natural landscape.
