Natural England is able to offer grants towards the purchase of land by nature conservation organisations.

In 2007/08, the fund available for these grants is very limited. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact their local Natural England office before completing an application form.

Click here to access the land purchase grants electronic service.

Click here to read more about the land purchase grants electronic service.

		Land purchase grants will be used to make a contribution to the delivery of the PSA target. Priority will be given to Natura 2000 sites in unfavourable condition;
		Grants will be used to achieve the conservation objectives of the site, and primarily this will be delivered by the acquisition of a freehold interest with vacant possession in land and water. However, in some circumstances other rights (e.g. grazing, shooting, mineral) may just be purchased on their own where this will achieve the conservation objectives;
		Grants can be used to purchase SSSI land, land around SSSIs where this will help safeguard the SSSI, and non-SSSI land where habitat restoration can make a major contribution towards the achievement of national BAP habitat and species targets;
		Recipients of grants shall ensure that, where possible there is public benefit. This may not always be physical access, but could include intellectual access;
		Recipients of grants shall be required to deliver the project objectives in perpetuity, unless there is subsequent agreement with Natural England;
		Recipients of grants should be able to receive monies from the England Rural Development Programme;
		Grants shall aim to offer good value for money for Natural England.

Applicants must be voluntary conservation organisations with a good track record in land management. Grants cannot be given to commercial organisations or private individuals.

The rate of grant offered towards the cost of land purchase will normally be between 5% and 25% of the purchase price up to a maximum of £50,000 and depending on the opportunities for leverage of other funds. However, land purchase grants are normally in the order of £10,000. The offer of a grant at a higher level should be the exception rather than the rule. Grant will not be offered towards the cost of related expenses (e.g. agent and solicitor costs).

It is now possible to view the details of recently awarded grants using our new land purchase grants electronic service. Click here to gain access to the service.

This service also allows applicants (and, by agreement, other funding organisations supporting the purchase) to track the progress of their application and the purchase and to see the planned next steps. It also provides access to most of the key documentation assembled as the case proceeds. This information is held within a secure environment and access is only provided to individuals authorised by the applicant organisation. For further details, please email Stewart Lane or phone 01733 455133.