LV2: Livestock handling facilities

Find out about eligibility and requirements for the livestock handling facilities item.

How much will be paid

Up to 80% of actual costs.

Where to use this item

Available for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier only in conjunction with a land management option and if:

  • a new management regime is being introduced on the site
  • a substantial change in grazing management is needed
  • livestock handling facilities are essential for carrying out the associated land management option

Available for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier Capital Grants only in conjunction with a land management option included in an existing agreement and if:

  • a new management regime is being introduced on the site
  • a substantial change in grazing management is needed
  • livestock handling facilities are essential for carrying out the associated land management option

Where this item cannot be used

Where:

  • existing handling facilities are available
  • the site is not grazed
  • it will damage historic and archaeological features
  • it will damage peat exposures or other sensitive soils
  • it will lead to poaching (trampling) damage

How this item will benefit the environment

It will help to improve grazing management.

Requirements

  • agree a specification for the works with Natural England
  • get at least 3 written quotations for the cost of the works
  • complete the works as set out in the approved specification and within the agreed timescale
  • erect permanent posts in the locations where mobile facilities will be used
  • provide a map of the locations where mobile facilities will be used

Keeping records

Agreement holders will need to keep the following records and supply them on request

  • any consents or permissions connected with the work

Please see the record keeping and inspection requirements as set out in the relevant Higher Tier or Higher Tier Capital Grants guidance for more detail. You can find the latest guidance at Countryside Stewardship: get funding to protect and improve the land you manage.

Agreement holders will need to keep the following records and supply them with the claim:

  • photographs to show the completed works
  • please see the record keeping and inspection requirements for more detail

Applicants will need to send the following with their application:

  • the 3 quotes for completion of the work
  • map of livestock facilities usage and storage locations where mobile facilities are used

The detailed requirements for this item will be tailored to the Higher Tier site. Higher Tier applicants should discuss and agree these requirements with their adviser.

Advice and suggestions for how to carry out this item

The following section gives advice on carrying out this item successfully but does not form part of the requirements for this item

How to construct livestock handling facilities

This item will typically fund handling pens for cattle, and holding pens and shedding race for sheep.

Agree on a design and location with the adviser. Choose a design and construction materials that blend in with the local landscape.

When choosing a site, make sure that there is no damage to other features or natural resources. Ensure that poaching or vehicle access do not cause ground disturbance in the vicinity of the site.

Further information

Read Countryside Stewardship: get funding to protect and improve the land you manage to find out more information about Higher Tier and Higher Tier Capital Grants including how to apply.

Updates to this page

Published 2 April 2015
Last updated 14 February 2023 + show all updates
  1. This item is now available for Higher Tier Capital Grants

  2. Updated for 2017 applications.

  3. Information updated for applications in 2016.

  4. First published.