Setting the record straight on HLS agreements
22 October 2010
As part of its SR settlement, Defra announced that the HLS budget will grow by 83% by 2013/14 as compared with 2010/11. This increase for HLS is within an overall RDPE budget that will be maintained over the next three years.
Because of the high level of new HLS agreements already approved so far this year we have now temporarily suspended further approvals while we assess with Defra the effects of the new post-SR budget profile. This is necessary because new commitments made this year impact on the budgets for subsequent years.
Farmers who have already been formally offered HLS agreements will not be affected and will have a start date as indicated in their offer letters.
It is important to stress that HLS remains open for business and farmers are encouraged to continue applying.
Entry Level Stewardship, including Uplands ELS, and classic schemes (Countryside Stewardship and Environmentally Sensitive Areas) remain unaffected and these schemes will operate as normal.
If you would like further information about applying for HLS please contact your local Natural England office.
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