We are very proud to announce that our Natural Capital Trust work was featured in the Government’s 25 Year Environmental Plan, released last week:
“Innovation in governance – a natural capital trust
The West of England Nature Partnership (WENP) is working closely with local authorities and the West of England Combined Authority to explore how the establishment of a Natural Capital Trust for the West of England could both enable development and investment in natural capital, improving the quality of life for people across the region.
Defra has provided support for this project as the model has the potential to be replicated across the country. Such a model could improve the strategic allocation of funding generated from developer contributions and payment for ecosystem services schemes to have maximum benefit to the protection and enhancement of a region’s natural capital. (Page 140)”
The Natural Capital Trust (NCT) has been developed in response to the challenge many UK planning authorities face; to meet the ever growing demand for housing and infrastructure, whilst maintaining and enhancing the quality of our natural environment.
The NCT seeks to provide a strategic mechanism for natural capital and green infrastructure investments in the West of England, through administering funds for these activities, whilst also linking closely to the planning system.
Our proposal is in its final stages and a report with full details will be available soon.
