Defra has reopened the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) 2024 scheme to approximately 3,000 applicants in England, following pressure from a group of farmers who threatened legal action over its abrupt closure without prior notice.
Background
The move comes after farmers contacted the Defra Secretary of State, highlighting their intent to challenge the legality of the sudden closure. A key issue raised was that Defra had previously committed to giving at least six weeks’ notice before closing the scheme to new applicants. The lack of notice prompted the legal threat, leading the Minister to acknowledge an error had been made and reverse the decision.
Who can now apply?
This reopening applies specifically to farmers who began, but did not submit an SFI24 application within the two months leading up to 11th March 2025. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will directly contact farmers who began an application after 11th January 2025. There are around 3,000 potential applicants in this category.
Application window
Eligible applicants will be granted a six-week window to complete and submit their applications. The opening and closing dates of this window are yet to be confirmed and the following restrictions will apply:
- Only one application per farm business will be accepted.
- Agreements will be capped at £9,300 per year (excluding the SFI management payment), in line with the average value of current SFI24 agreements.
- Land designated for ‘rotational’ SFI actions cannot be expanded after Year 1 of the agreement.
Help & advice
If you started an SFI24 application after 11th January 2025, but didn’t submit it, please get in touch with our Stewardship & Grants team on 01981 590514 for further advice and support.
Read mpore at: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2025-05-12/hcws626
