Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir announces opening of improved Forest Expansion Scheme

The FES supports landowners to establish new woodlands of three hectares or more and is open to a wide range of woodland types.

Successful applicants can receive up to 100% of eligible woodland establishment costs. In addition, annual premium payments of £469 per hectare for 10 years are payable for eligible applications.

Announcing the reopening of the Scheme, Minister Muir said: “When I launched the Tree Planting Action Plan in July, I said that I wanted to go further and faster. I am therefore pleased to announce that the Forest Expansion Scheme, with enhanced annual payment rates, is now open for applications.

“Increasing the annual premium to £469 per hectare provides stronger support for landowners and the forestry sector.

“Whether your goal is timber production, improving biodiversity, enhancing water quality, enriching the landscape or creating a lasting environmental legacy, this Scheme supports you to make that ambition a reality.”

Minister Muir added: “Expanding our forests and woodlands is essential to building a greener and more resilient Northern Ireland. New woodland creation helps tackle climate change, supports biodiversity recovery, improves water quality, enhances our landscapes and delivers long-term benefits for landowners, rural communities and future generations.

“I encourage landowners to consider the opportunities available through this Scheme and submit an application.”

Applications for the Forest Expansion Scheme are now open. Further information is available from Forest Service via: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/daera-forestry-grants. Alternatively, contact Forest Service on 028 66343145 or email: [email protected].

The closing date for applications to be received is 3pm on 19 October.