Issue - meetings

Recommendation

Executive approval to publish the North Yorkshire and York Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) in line with statutory guidance.

Considered a report of the Corporate Director Environment which sought approval to publish the North Yorkshire and York Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) in line with statutory guidance.

The Executive Member for Managing our Environment, Councillor Richard Foster introduced the report. He explained that the strategy provided a framework for identifying areas of existing ecological value, opportunities for enhancement, and priorities for nature recovery across North Yorkshire. He emphasised that delivery would rely heavily on partnership working, particularly with landowners and farmers, and noted the importance of future funding to support implementation.

During discussion, Members welcomed the strategy and recognised its importance in providing a shared evidence base for nature recovery and informing future planning and investment decisions. It was noted that much of the land affected was in private ownership and that long?term engagement and financial support for landowners would be critical to success. Members discussed the current uncertainty around government funding and the need for alignment with national policy and planning frameworks.

The role of parish councils, local communities and partners such as water companies was highlighted, alongside the potential role of the Mayoral Combined Authority in the longer term. Members agreed that the strategy provided a strong foundation, whilst acknowledging that further work would be required to secure funding and delivery mechanisms.

Resolved (unanimously) that the Executive approves the publication of the North Yorkshire and York Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) in line with statutory guidance.

Reasons for recommendations

North Yorkshire Council, as responsible authority, has followed all stages of the statutory requirements in the preparation of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) and therefore authority to publish the North Yorkshire and York Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is recommended. This is subject to the consent to proceed to publication by the supporting authorities.

Alternative options considered

The council is required to follow the LNRS regulations and statutory guidance set out by Defra and so no alternative options have been considered.