Local Nature Recovery Strategy
The requirement for Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS) across the whole of England was set out in the Environment Act 2021. In March 2023, DEFRA published the 'Local nature recovery strategy statutory guidance' document which sits alongside the 'The Environment (Local Nature Recovery Strategies) (Procedure) Regulations 2023' (LNRS Regs).
Following extensive evidence gathering and engagement with regional stakeholders we have developed a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for the WMCA area that addresses the challenges of the region and sets out a path, not only, for nature recovery but also for how we can integrate nature into our communities to address other environmental and societal challenges.
The LNRS comprises two key parts as follows:
West Midlands Local Nature Recovery Strategy
The West Midlands LNRS Maps
To assist with the use of the map we have created the West Midlands Local Nature Recovery Strategy Map Guidance video.
What is the LNRS?
Local nature recovery strategies are a system of spatial strategies for nature and environmental improvement required by law under the Act. Each strategy must:
- agree priorities for nature’s recovery;
- map the most valuable existing areas for nature; and
- map specific proposals for creating or improving habitat for nature and wider environmental goals (adopting nature-based solutions).
Together, a total of 48 strategies will cover the whole of England with no gaps and no overlaps. The main purpose of the strategies is to identify locations to create or improve habitat most likely to provide the greatest benefit for nature and the wider environment.
The strategies do not force the owners and managers of the land identified to make any changes. Instead, the government is encouraging action through, for example, opportunities for funding and investment. Having both actions for nature recovery and nature-based solutions will help join up work to improve how land is managed for different environmental reasons and find activities that have multiple benefits.
Further information on the natural assets of the region can be found here: WMCA State of Nature Report.
Looking ahead
Defra has indicated that the role of Responsible Authorities shall continue beyond LNRS publication. Key elements of this role will include the leading and convening of delivery partnerships, embedding the LNRS into local decision making, identifying strategic projects and facilitating delivery, and finally, monitoring and reporting.
The LNRS forms a key part of our ambitions for the region which are detailed in the West Midlands Nature Delivery Plan (2026-2029).
The strategy will be reviewed every 3–10 years, in accordance with the LNRS regulations and Secretary of State instruction.
As the WMCA, the Responsible Authority for this region, develops the governance for LNRS and works with partners to facilitate delivery, further updates and information shall be published on this web page.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the LNRS or the consultation, please reach out to WestMidlandsLNRS@wmca.org.uk