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Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)

Local Nature Recovery Strategies in England are a new approach to restoring and protecting nature.

What is a Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)?

They are part of a nationwide move to create the space and connectivity needed on land and sea for nature to thrive, recover and be resilient. A key objective for the LNRS is to support the establishment of a national Nature Recovery Network (NRN). They are a result of the Environment Act 2021. They aim to identify opportunities and priorities for nature restoration at the local level, and will consist of:

  • A local habitat map showing where valuable areas for nature are currently located
  • A statement of biodiversity priorities - a locally agreed list of priority areas where new and improved habitats would bring the most benefit
  • A map of locations and actions showing where and how habitats can be created and connected, and how the wider environment and economy can benefit.

Each strategy must:

  • Agree priorities for nature recovery
  • Map the most valuable nature areas that currently exist
  • Map specific proposals for creating or improving habitat for nature and wider environmental goals.

48 Local Nature Recovery Strategies are being created across the country over the next two years. Together, these will combine to form a national plan for ensuring nature is bigger, better and more joined-up, while providing a blueprint for the delivery of new duties and funding streams like Biodiversity Net Gain and agri-environment schemes.