Paragraph 1 Eligible scheme actions; planting new hedgerowsF1

Northern Ireland

An applicant planting a new hedgerow must–

(a)

plant a hedgerow–

(i)

where no hedgerow currently exists; or

(ii)

where there is a continuous gap of 10 metres or more between existing hedgerows;

(b)

ensure each individual length of new hedgerow planted is a minimum of 10 metres;

(c)

plant three or more species of native hedge plants listed in Schedule 4 with an average of 6 native plants per metre;

(d)

protect newly planted hedgerows from damage by grazing livestock or wildlife on all sides;

(e)

manage the hedgerow to prevent growth being negatively affected by weeds;

(f)

manage and maintain the full length of hedgerow planted;

(g)

complete all work related to this action by 28th February 2027;

(h)

retain evidence, as the Department may specify, of the quantity and species of native hedge plants used;

(i)

not plant a new hedgerow–

(i)

on permanent grassland sensitive areas;

(ii)

against an existing hedgerow;

(iii)

on the field side of a 2 metre riparian buffer strip;

(iv)

under the shade of an existing treeline or woodland; or

(v)

against a stone wall; and

(j)

ensure if erecting protective fencing it meets the eligibility criteria in Schedule 2.

Annotations

F1: Sch. 1 para. 1 substituted (25.6.2026) by The Farming with Nature Scheme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026 (S.R. 2026/105), regs. 1(1), 2(7)(a)