Introduction
The Less Favoured Area Support Scheme (LFASS) is an area based scheme provided for in EC Rural Development Regulations. The objectives are to:
- Ensure continued agricultural land use in order to contribute to the maintenance of a viable rural community;
- Maintain the countryside; and
- Maintain and promote sustainable farming systems.
The Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP) was submitted to the EC in June 2007 and includes detailed proposals for LFASS covering the period 2007-2009 and 2010-2013.
The scheme has been very advantageous to nearly 13,000 applicants, and aims to contribute £65.5m in 2010. The 2010 payment rates have been finalised.
The scheme has been revised and the latest version of the Explanatory Notes and additional LFASS 2011 information are available to view.