Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has confirmed Natural Cambridgeshire will lead the development of a Delivery Plan for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. The strategy – which was adopted at the end of 2025 - is a bold plan to revive and protect nature across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are recognised as one of the most nature-depleted counties in England whilst having nationally and internationally important habitats and species such as our chalk streams and Fenlands.
Developed in collaboration with partners across the area, the strategy outlines a shared vision to enhance biodiversity, expand wild spaces, and promote nature-friendly land use. Its goal is to build more resilient ecosystems and expand wildlife habitats for future generations. The adopted strategy is a formal part of the planning system and will inform Local Plans as they are reviewed.
Like the development of the Strategy, its delivery will require strong collaborations between nature organisations, the public sector, communities and landowners – including farmers and developers - to work together to deliver the changes our natural environment needs. The work goes hand in hand with the Local Growth Strategy to ensure the area’s green spaces are enhanced, protected and expanded, alongside the homes, businesses and infrastructure coming forward in the area.
The Delivery Plan is being developed by Natural Cambridgeshire in close collaboration with wildlife organisations, landowners and communities, and the initial draft plan is scheduled to be presented to the CPCA Growth Committee in June.
Martin Doel, Chair of Natural Cambridgeshire said:
“The Natural Cambridgeshire team and all of the organisations we work with as the Local Nature Partnership for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have worked hard to develop the Strategy. We are pleased to now be taking this work forward with the CPCA to develop a robust Delivery Plan which will help all stakeholders play their part in helping to double the space for nature by 2040.
“We know how vital this work is and with all the challenges and opportunities presented by the ambitious growth plans for this area, the changing climate, and the fundamental importance of our farming industry, we feel that we are uniquely placed to form the coalition that will be necessary to enable real and lasting beneficial change in our natural environment.”
Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said:
“Our Local Nature Recovery Strategy sets out clear opportunities to help nature flourish,and working alongside our partners at Natural Cambridgeshire and all the stakeholders involved in this important agenda, it will drive meaningful action across the region.”
“It’s encouraging to see the strategy moving forward into a delivery plan by the Summer, and I look forward to our communities and residents being able to feel the benefits as projects start to take shape over the coming years.”
The strategy and all supporting documents are available to view online here.