Image for article: Sustainable Farming Incentive - Changes announced by Defra

Sustainable Farming Incentive - Changes announced by Defra

28 March 2024
Butler Sherborn logomark

Keep up to date with the latest properties, rural business insights, market commentary and events:

Join mailing list

Defra has been reviewing the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) to ensure that the scheme is effective and not used too heavily across the farming industry, in a way that compromises the environment, food production and food security. Nevertheless, important features of SFI are the flexibility and freedom of choice in the options available.

Defra, however, is concerned about the amount of land being taken out of food production. With economic instability and challenging weather conditions, it is thought that this may become a greater issue in the future.

As a result, a limit is being imposed, whereby no more than 25% of a farm’s total land holding can be put in six of the nine options presented in the SFI.

The 6 limited options 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 

With a cap on the above six options, at a total of 25% of the landholding, Defra believes this to be the right balance. Taking more land out of production is unlikely to benefit food production or the environment.

For advice on any rural property matters, contact Richard Greasby - Head of Butler Sherborn Rural - on 01285 883740 or richard@butlersherborn.co.uk

 

 

News & Comment
Read Article
Cirencester Aerial Shot

September Market Comment - Hear From Sophie Lane

Despite economic uncertainty and cautious high-end buyers, the Cotswold market remains resilient. Well-presented homes continue to attract strong interest, highlighting the importance of pricing and preparation.

September Market Comment
Read Article
Cotswold Stone Georgian Home

Inside Cirencester's Finest Townhouses

Set back from a picturesque Cotswold street in the heart of Cirencester’s historic town centre, these exceptional Grade II* Listed townhouses offer a rare blend of classical grandeur and contemporary elegance.

Inside Cirencester's Finest Townhouses
Read Article
Cotswold Rural Scenes

Back British Farming: Celebrating a decade of support

Today marks ten years of Back British Farming Day—a milestone that highlights a decade of unwavering public support and growing awareness of the importance of British agriculture.

Back British Farming: Celebrating a Decade of Support
Read Article
Flat 5, The Manor House, Eastleach

Renters' Reform Bill Returns To The Commons

Earlier this week, the Renters’ Reform Bill returned to the House of Commons for consideration of the proposed amendments put forward by the House of Lords.

Renters' Reform Bill Returns To The Commons
A laptop on a desk with houseplants an coffee
Instant Digital Valuation

Wondering what your property is worth?

Get an estimated valuation for you property using our free digital valuation tool.

Rightmove logo
Rics logo
The Property Ombudsmen logo
CTSI Approved Code logo
CAAV logo
The London Office logo
Team Way Eventing logo