Introduction to Kent Nature Partnership

Background to Local Nature Partnerships Introduced by Natural Environment White Paper (2011). Purpose: -Drive positive change, taking strategic view of challenges and opportunities to benefit of nature, people and economy. -Contribute to national environmental objectives. -Influence decision making relating to natural environment and its value to social and economic outcomes -Work closely with local authorities, Local Enterprise Partnerships and Health & Wellbeing Boards. -Champion the natural environment

Background to Local Nature Partnerships (cont’d) Mechanisms for LNPs: – Local planning regulations amended to require regard to views of LNP on strategic planning matters. – National Planning Policy Framework requires local planning authorities to consult with LNPs. – Ministerial pressure for LEPs to engage with LNPs. – Access to Government, with support Defra and annual Ministerial event.

Key attributes of an effective LNP Shared Vision Broad Membership Range of skills and knowledge Effective governance Collaboration Focus on realistic visible outcomes

Road to Kent Nature Partnership Kent Biodiversity Partnership originally The Kent Nature Partnership is not new but redefined. Received funding from one-off fund to support the development of an LNP: – Desk top studies to identify value of nature to Kent. – Formation of “skeleton” LNP of representatives from environmental, social and economic sectors. – Three workshops and online consultation with strategic partners to develop working vision, mission and aims. – Outline Partnership development for Kent.

Road to Kent Nature Partnership (cont’d) LNP status granted -July LNP status also granted to Thames Gateway LNP. Vision refined and developed Structure, SMP and recruitment Can it add value? Does it duplicate or overlap?

Kent Nature Partnership vision The Kent LNP has a vision for the Garden of England to have a healthy natural environment that is rich in wildlife, is enjoyed and valued by all and underpins our long-term economic, social and personal wellbeing

Kent Nature Partnership mission To enable a diverse range of organisations to work in partnership and to make best use of their available resources in order to achieve significant gains for Kent's natural environment. The LNP will act as advocate for the natural environment by helping Kent’s residents and businesses recognise the true value, services and benefits a healthy natural environment provides. Striking the right balance between competing demands on our natural resources is key.

Kent Nature Partnership priority areas Advocating and integrating with existing agreed strategic approaches. Set strategic direction for conservation and enhancement of the natural environment and input into strategic planning, as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework’s duty to cooperate. Promotion of the Natural Environment White Paper and Biodiversity Strategy 2020 aims and visions at a Kent level. Establishing a strong working relationship with the South East Local Enterprise Partnership. Ensuring an effective and broad partnership.

Chairs’ aspirations and priorities Cohesive and focussed Partnership, adding value where there’s greatest gain. Operating at strategic, not tactical level. Provide strategic input that’s responsible for long term and not just responsive to short term issues. Policy influencer and advocate.

Chairs’ aspirations and priorities (cont’d) Tap into momentum surrounding natural environment links to health and wellbeing. Tackle the misconception that the environment is the enemy of growth. Influence economic growth agenda so that it is quality growth, realising benefits for natural environment.

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