DEFRA introduces 25% Area Cap for Sustainable Farming Incentive

In March 2024, DEFRA announced the introduction of a 25% Area Cap for 6 of the existing 23 actions offered under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).

This move is to restrain the use of certain SFI actions that limit food production and are less effective over larger areas, as well as encourage farms to establish a balance between productive land and environmental areas.

The 6 actions now limited to 25% of your holding are:

• Take improved grassland field corners or blocks out of management – IGL1
• Winter bird food on improved grassland – IGL2
• Pollen and nectar flower mix – AHL1
• Winter bird food on arable and horticultural land – AHL2
• Grassy field corners and blocks - AHL3
• Flower-rich grass margins, blocks, or in-field strips – IPM2

The 25% Area Cap does not apply to existing SFI agreements, or to applications that were submitted before 25 March 2024.

If you have any questions, please email Sophie Lawes at s.lawes@batchellermonkhouse.com or telephone your local office.

Haywards Heath, please call 01444 412402.
Pulborough, please call 01798 877555.
Tunbridge Wells, please call 01892 509280.