Streamlined Routes

Streamlined Routes

Streamlined Routes (referred to as ‘Streamlined Subsidy Schemes’ in The Act) are a type of Subsidy Scheme, made by the UK Government, that Public Authorities can use for subsidies that align with the Government’s strategic priorities (such as promoting innovation). They offer pre-assessed routes for Public Authorities to award subsidies more quickly.

What is a Streamlined Routes?

Streamlined Routes are voluntary mechanisms that can be used by UK Public Authorities to give certain subsidies. There is no need to assess subsidies given under a Streamlined Routes against the Subsidy Control Principles, providing they comply with conditions set out in the Streamlined Routes.

The initial three Routes (Research, Development and Innovation; Energy Usage; and Local Growth) were made on 5 January 2023 and laid before Parliament on 9 January 2023. Two further Routes (Arts and Culture, and Community and Regeneration) were made on 6 January 2026 and laid before Parliament on 12 January 2026. A further Housing Route was made and laid before Parliament on 14 April 2026.

The three Streamlined Routes are for:

• Research, Development and Innovation (Subsidy Control Reference Number - SC10780)
• Energy Usage (Subsidy Control Reference Number - SC10781)
• Local Growth (Subsidy Control Reference Number - SC10782)
• Arts and Culture (Subsidy Control Reference Number - SC11449)
• Community and Regeneration (Subsidy Control Reference Number – SC11450)
• Housing (Subsidy Control Reference Number – SC11497)

To help Public Authorities interpret and comply with the Streamlined Routes accompanying guidance has been produced for each route. Public Authorities are strongly advised to consider the guidance documents when deciding to give subsidies under a Streamlined Routes.

Further Information

• State aid and Subsidy Control after EU Exit
• UK Subsidy Control/State aid Flow Chart
• Four Limb Test - Is it a Subsidy?
• Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA)
• Services of Public Economic Interest - (SPEI)
• Principles Route
• The UK Subsidy Control Act 2022

For further Advice, Awareness or Assistance with Streamlined Routes please contact the Subsidy Control Advice Unit (SCAU)