Defra Lowland Peat Water Discovery Grant

Defra has launched a new Lowland Peat Water Discovery Grant, offering funding to help communities plan how to safely raise water tables in lowland peat soils across England.

Running until 2028, the programme will support collaborative projects focused on more sustainable water management in lowland peatland catchments.

Successful projects will help to:

- create effective local partnerships

- enable the safe and sustainable raising of water tables

- reduce emissions, increase biodiversity, and improve flood and drought mitigation.

Upon completion in 2028, projects will be well placed to apply for a Water Implementation Grant, which will fund installation of the infrastructure identified in the plan.

Public bodies (including local authorities and internal drainage boards), charities and not for profit organisations,land managers, businesses and commercial enterprises are eligible to apply.

Avaliable funding: £4.5 million in total funding pot

Application deadline: 26 June 2026

For more information and how to apply visit the Lowland Peat Water Discovery Grant page

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