The Nature Recovery Programme 2026-2029 helps local planning authorities put nature at the centre of planning, enabling sustainable growth that works for people, place and the environment. Supported by and delivered with Natural England, it aims to build the confidence and consistency needed to make nature a core part of planning decisions—not a reactive afterthought.
Overview of PAS nature recovery resources
OFFICERS - PAS hosts a Nature Network for local authority officers with an online forum, monthly drop-in session and occasional events. Please get in touch via our email [email protected] if you would like to join.
MEMBERS - To date PAS has hosted an event for local planning authority members on addressing the nature emergency, and you can access a recording and slides on the event webpage.
Introduction
This webpage provides information on:
- Toolkit with case studies authorities can use in-house to get wider awareness and buy-in for nature recovery across the council.
- Why nature recovery is so important and what this means for local authorities, including duties introduced by the Environment Act 2021.
- What nature recovery activities local authorities are already delivering, and what more can be done.
- Support information on what Natural England is providing for local authorities.
National Policy & Legislation
TOOLKIT for Local Authorities
This “self-serve” toolkit funded by Natural England is designed to help local authorities take full advantage of the opportunities for turning their statutory ‘must do’ requirements for nature and the environment into opportunities for the whole council to support delivery of their strategic and corporate priorities on health, air quality, climate change and adaptation.
Local Authority Nature Recovery Toolkit
Delivering the Toolkit - case studies. In 2026 PAS supported six local authorities to tailor the toolkit and deliver a one day workshop to colleagues in a broad range of services across the council.
WHY is nature recovery important to local authorities?
The natural environment has an innate value that means we have a strong responsibility to protect it. Its value to us is clearer than ever: it is fundamental to our health and wellbeing, is the foundation of a productive economy and provides us with attractive neighbourhoods and access to green spaces we can enjoy.
Despite this, the natural environment faces urgent and significant challenges, with the UK being one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. By tackling the twin biodiversity and climate emergencies, we will help nature recover and, at the same time, secure health and economic benefits from an enhanced natural environment, for wildlife, people and our economy.
SUPPORT available from Natural England
A range of support is already available from Natural England including:
Who to Contact in Natural England. Area Team Nature Recovery Leads:
Natural England sent a letter to local planning authority Chief Planners about their approach to planning advice in August 2024: