Natural England - What funding is available for biodiversity?

What funding is available for biodiversity?

Financial incentives to farmers and land managers for the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

Wetland Vision

The Wetland Vision sets out where new wetlands could be created and current wetlands restored over the next 50 years. By turning the Vision into reality we can make space for water in our countryside, help people and wildlife adapt to a changing climate, protect our heritage and reap the many benefits that wetlands can provide.

Natural England has allocated a further £4,000,000 to the Wetland Vision partnership between 2009 and 2011, in support of landscape-scale wetland projects and the Wetland Habitat Action Plan (WHAP).

Please note that all of the funding available to this scheme has now been committed and that Natural England is not currently accepting any further applications for funding from this source.

Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund

The levy on aggregate extraction was introduced in April 2002; part of the money raised by the levy finances the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund (ALSF). The aim of ALSF is to address the environmental and social costs of aggregate extraction through delivery of environmental improvements, minimising the demand for primary aggregates and reducing the local effects of aggregate extraction.

There may be further opportunities to apply for funds in FY 2010/11, see Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund Grant Scheme 2009 - 2011.

Countdown 2010 Biodiversity Action Fund

The Countdown 2010 Biodiversity Action Fund aims to help achieve the UK Government’s commitment to halt the loss of biodiversity by 2010 through supporting the recovery of priority species and habitats in England.

Between 2006 and 2008 nearly £4 million was allocated to 34 projects across all nine regions. These projects covered a variety of aims including direct enhancement of biodiversity, engaging people in conservation work, and raising awareness among key stakeholders, schools, community groups and the general public.

The scheme was launched again in 2008 and £5.5 million has been awarded to 38 projects that will run to March 2011. Please note that all of the funding available to this scheme has now been committed and that Natural England is not currently accepting any further applications for funding from this source.

For further information please see 2008 to 2011 Grant Scheme.