An announcement is to be made in the next few weeks regarding a new RDPE (Rural Development Programme for England) small grants scheme.

According to Mandy Seedhouse at the Shrewsbury office of Berrys this will be will be rolled out countrywide and administered by Defra. The funding is, however, limited and will only be available to farmers for specific items in relation to the following:

Resource Efficiency

Nutrient Management

Animal Health and Welfare

Water Management

Forestry

"Even though full details have not yet been released Defra are asking farmers to register interest in the grants now," Mandy explained.

"As funds are limited we recommend that if you are interested to register early with Defra. Once a full detail of the scheme has been announced Defra will then contact all those farmers who have registered an interest to see if an application will be made." 

There is also funding available specifically in Shropshire under the Shropshire Rural Challenge Fund. 

"This offers capital funding of between £7,500 and £40,000 for projects in rural areas and some of the market towns for projects that keep spend in the local community," she said.

"Projects can include those which can demonstrate long term sustainability, support or provide essential services, activities that directly encourage visitors to an area and community projects.

"Expressions of interest can be submitted from now until the end of November and again we recommend acting quickly if you are interested."

If you think you may be interested in either of the above grants or would like help in making an application contact Mandy Seedhouse at Berrys on 01743 271697 or email mandy.seedhouse@berrybros.com or visit www.berrybros.com