Rural Payments and Services

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The aim of this item is to protect water quality by providing a purpose-built crossing to reduce poaching and erosion of watercourse banks.

Any land is eligible, provided that it meets all of the requirements set out below.

Crossings will only be funded where there is no other practical crossing point.

You can check if this item is available on your holding here.

Applicants must prepare a plan identifying the location of the proposed crossings which are to be entered under this option.

You must also produce a diffuse pollution steading assessment.

The crossing must be:

• single span
• at least 1.5 metres wide
• constructed so as to not impede water flow
• be secured on both sides of the watercourse

The works must not result in the narrowing of the channel or heightening of the banks.

No construction is to take place on the banks or bed of the watercourse without approval from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (CAR registration or licence).

You can claim:

• £222 per small bridge up to 2.6 metre span
• £880 per large bridge greater than 2.6 metre span

The inspectors will check that the location and number of bridges and that they are:

• single span
• at least 1.5 metres wide
• constructed so as to not impede water flow
• secured on both sides of the watercourse
• and the works do not result in a narrowing of the channel or heightening of the banks

Supporting guidance is available for this item.

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