Unlock funding for woodland creation with the Woodland Creation Planning Grant
Are you considering creating new woodlands on your land but unsure how to navigate the process?
The Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG) could be the key to unlocking up to £30,000 in funding to help you design a UK Forestry Standard (UKFS)-compliant Woodland Creation Plan.
This grant offers a fantastic opportunity for landowners, land managers, and public bodies to enhance biodiversity, contribute to sustainability goals, and access future grants for planting and establishment.
What is the Woodland Creation Planning Grant?
The WCPG provides funding in two stages to support the creation of a comprehensive woodland design plan:
- Stage 1 Funding – £1,000 to identify the constraints and opportunities for your proposed woodland through a desk-based exercise.
- Stage 2 Funding – £150 per hectare (up to £30,000 in total) to complete the full Woodland Creation Design Plan. This includes essential surveys and mapping to ensure your plan complies with UKFS requirements.
If your proposed woodland is under ten hectares, you’ll receive a minimum of £500 for stage 2.
Why apply for the WCPG?
This grant not only helps landowners access funding but also ensures your project considers key environmental factors like biodiversity, water, landscape, and stakeholder engagement.
With a well-designed plan, you’ll be prepared to navigate future Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and apply for additional grants to bring your project to life.
Who is eligible?
The grant is open to:
- Landowners, land managers, and public bodies (excluding Forestry England and Crown Bodies).
- Projects in England that cover a minimum of five hectares (split blocks must meet the definition of woodland by the National Forest Inventory).
- Applicants with the landowner’s support, even if they don’t own the land.
It’s important to note that sites already under certain grant agreements or those that have applied for schemes like Countryside Stewardship or the Woodland Carbon Fund are not eligible.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your WCPG application and future grant funding needs.