Forestry Commission Woodland Management Plans in 2025

This blog provides a 2025 update on Forestry Commission woodland management plans, focusing on funding via PA3 and how they unlock Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship payments.

What is a Woodland Management Plan (WMP)?

A Woodland Management Plan (WMP) is a 10-year strategic document outlining how you will manage your woodland in compliance with the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS). It includes assessments of habitat condition, timber harvesting proposals, biodiversity enhancement strategies, and mapping. Once approved by the Forestry Commission, it can incorporate a 10-year felling licence.

Funding the WMP: Capital Payment via PA3

As of January 2025, landowners can apply year-round for the PA3 capital grant through the RPA to cover the cost of creating a WMP. Minimum woodland size is 0.5 hectares. Funding bands are as follows:

- 0.5–50 ha: £1,500 flat- 51–100 ha: £1,500 plus £30 per ha above 50 ha- Over 100 ha: £3,000 plus £15 per ha above 100 ha

You have up to 3 years from agreement acceptance to complete and gain Forestry Commission approval. A single capital payment is made after the plan is approved and must be claimed within three months of agreement end.

Accessing Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT)

An approved WMP is a prerequisite for including woodland in any CSHT application. This unlocks access to:

- CWD2: A 10-year annual revenue option supporting open space, deadwood management, and habitat condition assessment.- Woodland Supplementary Actions: Includes PAWs restoration and veteran tree care.- Capital Items: Available for implementing woodland projects once the WMP is approved.

Timeline: From WMP to Countryside Stewardship

1. Apply for PA3 at any time from January 2025 via the Rural Payments portal.2. Accept grant and develop your WMP (3-year window).3. Submit draft WMP to Forestry Commission for approval.4. Upon approval, claim PA3 payment.5. Apply for CSHT funding with CWD2 and/or other supplementary woodland actions.6. Begin receiving annual revenue and implementing capital works.

Why it Matters

- Reduces upfront cost barriers through PA3 funding.- A required gateway for accessing lucrative CSHT options.- Encourages structured, long-term, biodiversity-led woodland management.- Supports national climate and environmental goals.

Next Steps for Land Managers

- Register your land with Rural Payments.- Consult Forestry Commission advisers early in your planning.- Plan WMP and CSHT applications in tandem.- Maintain full documentation for at least 7 years post-approval.

In summary, the PA3 grant makes the creation of a Forestry Commission–approved Woodland Management Plan financially accessible. Once approved, the WMP serves as the foundation for substantial revenue and capital support through Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier funding. With proper planning, land managers can sustainably support biodiversity, timber production, and climate resilience in their woodlands.