Delivery of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy

Our Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) sets out a shared vision for nature recovery across West Northamptonshire, one that aligns with national, regional and local policies and legislation and which visualises where nature recovery action would be most effective in a powerful way.

In order to achieve our vision, everyone is invited to use the strategy to take meaningful steps towards nature recovery, ensuring long-term benefits for both wildlife and people. 

From our experience so far, we know there are many organisations, businesses, farmers, town and parish councils, and individuals who are keen to support wildlife and the LNRS.

User delivery guides

To help springboard action, we have tailored sector advice in the strategy and through supporting material to help everyone understand how to navigate the LNRS, organise and plan delivery action.

The sector advice includes:

• public bodies and environmental organisations 
• developers and planners 
• land managers, farmers and foresters
• communities, businesses and individuals

When planning and delivering projects, it is essential to seek ecological advice, follow health and safety regulations, and, where appropriate, obtain permissions from relevant authorities and specialists. This is to ensure proposals are sustainable, well-informed and legally compliant.

Guidance on permits, permissions and planning is available in the LNRS priorities and habitat map section.

Key delivery functions

The Government has outlined the key functions that responsible authorities have for each strategy area and are responsible for overseeing during delivery. 

These 4 functions include:

1. Lead and convene a delivery partnership to plan and prioritise delivery
2. Embed LNRS into local decision making
3. Identify priority strategic projects and facilitate project development
4. Monitor and report on delivery of nature recovery activities in the LNRS area

Key partnership

West Northamptonshire Council and North Northamptonshire Council will continue to work closely with the Northamptonshire Local Nature Partnership (LNP), a network of organisations and individuals working together to improve nature across Northamptonshire.

The partnership focuses on 5 key areas:

• habitats and species
• urban nature, communities and people
• landowners and nature-based solutions (water)
• research and monitoring
• funding and policy

LNRS development, implement and review process

The regulations set out the process for preparing, publishing, reviewing and updating the strategy.

This process has 6 stages:

1. Prepare - agree priorities, identify potential measures (actions) and map suitable locations where they could be delivered
2. Publish - finalise the strategy and make it publicly available
3. Take action - work with local partners, landowners and land managers to create and improve habitats, support nature recovery and deliver other actions that benefit biodiversity
4. Review - assess which actions have been delivered, including those not identified in the current strategy
5. Update -review priorities, measures and locations to reflect progress and changing circumstances, ensuring the strategy remains relevant and effective
6. Republish - finalise the updated strategy and make it publicly available

We are currently at Stage 2, publishing the strategy on 24 September 2026 and are beginning Stage 3, taking action.

Nature Map IT

Help us improve our understanding of nature across West Northamptonshire by sharing information through Nature Map IT.

Nature Map IT is an interactive map where you can tell us about:

• areas that are important for wildlife
• activities that support nature recovery
• future plans for nature improvement
• opportunities and challenges for nature recovery

Your local knowledge will help West Northamptonshire Council and its partners build a better picture of nature across the area.

We welcome contributions from individuals, community groups and organisations.

Add information to Nature Map IT

Please note: Information submitted through Nature Map IT is not part of the statutory planning process and cannot be used to influence, determine or support planning decisions.

Keep up to date

You can also talk to others about nature recovery and help build a shared sense of responsibility and pride in local wildlife.

By getting involved, you can help create a healthier, more resilient natural environment for current and future generations.

If you would like to sign up to our newsletter, or would like more information or clarification on the West Northamptonshire LNRS, please email naturerecovery@westnorthants.gov.uk. 

Last updated 16 October 2026