£30 million boost for HLS farmers 

At the NFU Conference in February, the Secretary of State promised farmers there would be an increase to the payment rates for a range of Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) options.  

Defra have now published how payment rates for 157 HLS options will rise. 

Thousands of farmers will benefit from a £30 million boost to payments received for nature-friendly farming practices under the HLS scheme. This uplift recognises and rewards the vital role farmers play in restoring habitats and protecting England’s iconic landscapes. 

This investment will increase payment rates for 157 options so farmers in HLS agreements can continue to restore habitats, support rare species, preserve historic features and maintain traditional landscape features in our iconic countryside. 

Payments will be automatically increased, landing from December 2025. Agreement holders will receive remittance advice at that time showing their new total payment. 

This funding brings the HLS payment rates closer to those offered under the Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes.