Natural England - Higher Level Stewardship

Higher Level Stewardship

Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) aims to deliver significant environmental benefits in high priority situations and areas. It involves more complex environmental management, so land managers will need advice and support.

HLS is usually combined with ELS or OELS options, but unlike these entry into the scheme is discretionary. A wide range of management options are offered, which are targeted to support key features of the different areas of the English countryside.

HLS agreements are for ten years. Payments are sent out every six months and relate to the options that have been chosen. HLS includes payments for capital items such as hedgerow restoration.

The application process

Applying for HLS involves preparing a Farm Environmental Plan (FEP). A consultation is offered to prospective applicants to see if their holding has any potential before they commit to the expense of commissioning a FEP.

Applications are assessed to see how they meet the environmental priorities identified in their local area.

How to apply

To apply for an HLS agreement, please contact your regional office. Technical advice and support will be provided by local Natural England advisers.

HLS application guidance

The following documents will help you with your HLS application:

Existing agreements

If you have an existing agreement that started before October 2008, you should refer to the following publications, which are available on the Defra website:

Spatial approach to HLS

Natural England is moving towards a spatial approach to the delivery of HLS. We have produced a set of maps of the country, to establish which land holdings provide the most environmental benefit with the funds available. Find out more in HLS Targeting.

Find out more

You can find out more about the scheme at one of our Land Management Advice Events.

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