Interest in Higher Tier single-focus agreements

In July, we introduced a new Expression of Interest (EOI) process to widen participation in Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT). 

This made it possible for farmers and land managers to submit an EOI for: 

• Agroforestry 

• Woodland improvement 

We also introduced single-focus agreements, making it easier to apply for funding and focus on a particular environmental outcome. These support specific environmental priorities in: 

• Scheduled monument management 

• Species-rich grassland 

To help us manage applications efficiently, we said that up to 1,200 single-focus agreements would be made available initially. To date, we’ve received over 650 EOIs for single-focus agreements.   

This response reflects the appeal of a simpler approach that enables farmers and land managers to deliver meaningful environmental benefits through targeted, single-focus agreements. 

While most EOIs received to date relate to species-rich grassland, we continue to welcome EOIs for scheduled monument management agreements.  

These agreements can help secure the protection of important historic features while supporting appropriate land management.  

The EOI process 

Before submitting the online EOI form, you should:  

• read the CSHT guidance on GOV.UK  

• have your Single Business Identifier (SBI), Customer Reference Number (CRN), business name, site name and county ready  

• check your business email address and permissions are up to date in the Rural Payments service  

After this, you can go ahead and complete the online EOI form on GOV.UK.  

If you are interested in a single-focus agreement for species rich grassland and scheduled monument management, you will need to submit a separate EOI for each. 

There is no automatic validation within the EOI form, so it is important that all details are entered accurately. Incorrect information, or insufficient permissions to act on behalf of a business, can delay progress or prevent an EOI from being taken forward.  

Once you have submitted your EOI, you will be contacted within 10 weeks with information about the next steps.  

Submitting an EOI does not automatically result in an agreement being offered, but it is the first step in the process and allows the relevant advisers to discuss the opportunity with you.  

Natural England will continue to discuss species-rich grassland applications with interested applicants, while Historic England will contact those interested in scheduled monument management to discuss their proposals and any site visit requirements.  

Looking ahead  

We will continue to expand access to CSHT and keep farmers and land managers updated as further opportunities become available. 

By subscribing to the Farming Blog, you'll be among the first to hear about future CSHT opportunities and other support available to farmers and land managers in England.