Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP)

The grant funding available through the SRDP will replace the competitive schemes such as Rural Stewardship, Organic Aid, Farm and Agricultural Business Development, and Forestry Grants. Therefore if you have been in these previous schemes in the past, you should consider continuing with these improvements.  Areas where SRDP funding is targeted are:

The SRDP will enable you to gain assistance in improving the viability of your business, for example through restructuring or diversifying. You could consider establishing or upgrading agricultural buildings, or develop new marketing strategies.

SRDP support is available to new entrants to agriculture and there is also the opportunity to improve upon your business and land management skills.

The SRDP also aims to improve water quality as well as landscape and biodiversity features. You may want to regenerate your local woodland or create a reedbed on your land. Reducing your carbon footprint by adopting renewable energies can also be supported in the SRDP.

Land Management

Managing land in an environmentally friendly way is encouraged under the SRDP.  Measures to positively manage moorland, watercourses, boundary features, grassland and arable features specifically to protect and enhance wildlife are included under the programme. You may also want to seek funding to maintain public access and upgrade pathways.

To discuss all your options, contact a member of SAC staff at your local Farm & Rural Business Services office.  All contact details are available from the FRBS Offices map on the right.