Opening Summer 2025
The CSHT scheme is due to open in summer 2025 but details of options and payment rates are now available. This scheme supports a wide variety of high-priority environmental improvements, including the preservation of valuable habitats, the enhancement of woodlands, and the mitigation of flood risks.
Applicants for the Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship scheme must demonstrate a commitment to delivering significant environmental benefits. This often involves collaboration with advisors and specialists to develop a comprehensive and effective land management plan. The application process is competitive, with potential participants required to submit detailed proposals outlining their intended management practices and their anticipated environmental outcomes.
Efforts have been made to simplify the application process, making it more accessible and less time-consuming for applicants. This includes the introduction of clearer guidance materials and a more user-friendly online application system. Changes intended to reduce barriers to entry and to ensure that a wider range of land managers can benefit from the scheme.
Preview guidance to the scheme can be found here:
Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier: preview guidance – GOV.UK
There will be 99 revenue based actions and 33 supplementary actions. You will also be able to apply for capital grants to support the actions.
The CSHT actions and capital items will allow you to:
- manage woodland and agroforestry
- create, restore and manage wetlands, coastal habitats, lowland peat, moorland and grassland
- manage waterbodies, such as lakes, ponds and rivers prevent flooding or improve resilience to flooding
- support species recovery of specific animals and plants
- provide permissive access to the public
- protect and restore historic or archaeological features
CSHT agreements will last for 5, 10, 15 or 20 years depending on the CSHT actions in your agreement (most actions will last for 5 years, but some will last for 10, 15 or 20 years).
In order to be considered for CSHT you need to be on Natural England’s ‘pipeline’ and may need to produce a feasibility study or management plan to support your proposals. These plans can be applied for now in advance of the scheme opening.
If you are interested in CSHT or would like further info, please get in touch with Rachel@elmassociates.co.uk