The latest 2017 edition of Conservation Planner is essential reading for planners, ecologists and others working to save special places.
It leads with an introduction to natural capital and its role in planning from RSPB senior economist Dr Katherine Bolt.
Head of Site Policy Kate Jennings examines the importance of the nature directives and the need to implement them better, while Juliette Young looks at revisions to Environmental Impact Assessment and how they are being incorporated into different regulatory regimes across the UK.
While this edition was completed ahead of the General Election, the need to maintain a strong planning system remains critical, and the RSPB will continue to advocate for strong environmental protections during the Brexit negotiations. The feature on our MP Species Champions Project highlights how individual Members of Parliament from England have previously taken positive strides for nature. As our article demonstrates, the MP species champions have provided a force for good and we look forward to continuing this positive work in the new Parliament.
The planning system seems to be under continual reform in different parts of the UK: Thomas Barratt considers the future of Scottish planning while Michelle Hunt deals with community planning in Northern Ireland.
Climate change and energy remain a hot topic in planning, and Rebecca Bell responds to the Scottish Government's draft climate change plan and draft energy strategy. We’re also delighted that the RSPB Energy Futures project was shortlisted for the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence, although sadly we did not win in the natural environment category.
Other highlights of Conservation Planner include Dr Jane Taylor’s work as a Green Infrastructure Champion in Bournemouth and Poole.
Finally, if you’re attending the RTPI’s Planning Convention on 21 June, come and visit the RSPB stand where Juliette Young and I will be pleased to talk to you more about the RSPB’s work.