We have been informed by the Rural Payments Agency that farmers will be able to apply for the online checker, 7th September 2023. This is the first stage of three within the application process. Stage two is an ambient environment assessment. Success within this assessment will initiate stage three, which is the full application.
The grant enables the building of new or upgrading/replacing existing calf housing, to improve the health and welfare of cattle up to the age of 6 months. The housing should provide a good ambient environment and facilitate social contact amongst calves.
Grant investment will range from £15,000 to a maximum of £500,000 per applicant business. This investment will cover approximately 40% of an eligible project costs, with the addition of roof top solar panels funded up to 25%.
To apply for the grant farmers must be located in England, with 10 or more head of cattle and must own the land or have a tenancy agreement lasting at least 5 years after the project has been completed.
Farmers with new/start-up businesses or farmers with less than 10 head of cattle are ineligible for the grant at this time.
Successful applicants will be asked to participate in evaluation and learning activities related to animal health and welfare, the information gathered from this will be used to improve future funding rounds.
The closing date for stage one of the application is the 30th November 2023!
If you would like further information and guidance regarding the Calf Housing Grant 2023, please call the team on 01630 692500.