The time frame for buying slurry equipment under the latest phase of the Tier 1 capital grant scheme has been extended to nine months.

It comes as machinery manufacturers see a surge in order confirmations from successful Tier 1 applicants.

Out of the 3,800 applications received for the third tranche of Tier 1, a total of 1,567 were for low-emission slurry spreading equipment (LESSE).

The vast majority of these are likely to receive letters of offer.

Originally, all successful applicants were to have four months from the date on their letter of offer to buy items and submit claims for grant funding.

However, local machinery suppliers have indicated waiting times of at least six months for the likes of slurry tankers fitted with trailing shoes and dribble bars.

Extension

A spokesperson from DAERA confirmed that the time frame for buying LESSE has been extended by five months.

“All letters of offer for projects which include any LESSE items are valid for nine months. Successful applicants are encouraged to advance and complete all projects as early as possible on receipt and acceptance of their offer of grant support,” the spokesperson said.