This item supports action on or adjacent to SSSIs and Natura sites aimed at bringing the special features of interest into favourable condition.
We will provide you with assistance towards the eligible costs of bringing the special features on the protected site into favourable condition, where:
- the cost of the required action or effort is significantly higher than the standard cost, or
- there are no standard costs for the operation you propose.
The work must be necessary to bring the qualifying interests of SSSIs and Natura sites into favourable condition.
You must justify why the standard costs are not appropriate and provide a detailed breakdown of the work required and the associated costs.
You must agree the eligible costs in advance with your Case Officer.
For example, the following items may be eligible:
- fencing on remote or difficult terrain
- control of invasive species, especially rhododendron, on steep slopes, or
- where costs the costs of open range deer management to enhance the natural heritage exceed £3.50 per hectare.
Payment Rate/Actual Cost
We will make a variable rate capital payment of up to 100% of eligible costs, depending on the requirement to allow the project to go ahead.
You can only claim for payment for a standard cost capital item, actual costs capital item or non-productive investment once on any sub-parcel of land within any 5 year period.