The Farming in Protected Landscapes programme helps farmers and land managers deliver projects that support nature recovery, climate resilience, and public enjoyment of the landscape, while promoting sustainable, nature-friendly farm businesses. It provides funding for one-off projects in these areas but is not an agri-environmental scheme.

Funding is available for projects that began in Year 2 (ending March 2023) and Year 3 (ending March 2024), as well as new projects under the programme's extension. Applications are now being accepted, and all projects must be completed by March 2026.

Applicants who do not receive a profit from their project may receive up to 100% of costs covered. Those who benefit commercially could receive between 40% and 80% of costs, depending on the level of commercial gain.

Eligibility

The programme is open to all farmers and land managers—including those from the private, public, and charity sectors—in the Chilterns AONB.  

You are eligible if you manage all the land included in your application (which can be any amount of land within the Chilterns AONB), or you have written consent from all parties with management and control.

What will the Programme pay for?

It will pay for projects that, in the opinion of the Local Assessment Panel, provide value for money and meet at least one of the outcomes listed below. 

Your project idea must also help to deliver at least one of the Strategic Objectives of the Chilterns AONB Management Plan.  

All projects will be assessed and scored using a common scoring system. You will be scored against the following categories which will be weighted differently for your final score:

• Project outcomes - (40%)

• Value for Money - (20%)  

• Sustainability / legacy of project - (20%)

• Ability to deliver - (20%) 

How to apply

Anyone interested in this needs to contact our local area of outstanding natural beauty – AONB – Chilterns Farming in Protected Landscapes | Chilterns National Landscape