Farming in Protected Landscapes

Malvern Hills National Landscape > Farming in Protected Landscapes

Due to the popularity of this grant scheme, the budget is now allocated and the scheme is now closed to new applicants.

This grant programme is one of the largest and most successful that we’ve delivered in recent years. There’s a list of all the projects so far, including those projects in 2024/25 ; plus more detailed case studies within the Malvern Hills AONB too. You can see what the scheme has supported nationally in a report on the first year, and another in the second year.

The grant programme runs until March 2026, but is closed to new applicants as it is fully allocated. Should you have an idea for a project that could go onto our ‘wishlist’, please contact Sash Warden by email or phone 01905 844686. Before doing so you might like to read the following general points about the programme:

  • The programme covers grants for improvements to the natural environment, cultural heritage and public access.
  • The programme will provide funding for one-off projects which allow farmer and land managers in protected landscapes to:
    • support nature recovery – such as increasing habitats to improve biodiversity or greater connectivity between habitats
    • mitigate the impacts of climate change – such as reducing flood risk or storing more carbon
    • provide opportunities for people to discover, enjoy and understand the landscape and its cultural heritage
    • support nature-friendly and sustainable farm businesses
  • Your application should help to deliver the Malvern Hills AONB Management Plan. There’s guidance and examples of suitable projects available.
  • Projects could include creating ponds or other wetland to support a variety of wildlife; conserving historic features on a farm, such as lime kilns or lead mining heritage; or even action to reduce carbon emissions or use of plastics on farms.
  • Historic Building Restoration Grant (HRBG).
  • This grant programme was completed last year and we’ll be posting details of its success in due course.
  • The Farming in Protected Landscapes programme is open to all farmers and land managers within the Malvern Hills AONB (including from the private, public and charity sector)  It is a programme of funding for one-off projects rather than an agri-environment scheme.
  • The new programme which will open for applications on 1 July 2021 and has been developed by Defra with the support of a group of AONB and National Park staff from across the country, following its announcement as part of the Agricultural Transition Plan.
  • Further information can be found on the GOV.UK website page   .