Integrating connectivity into actionable spatial planning for nature recovery: Lessons learnt from mapping the Nature Recovery Network in England

Abstract

In England, ecological connectivity is at the core of the ambitious Nature Recovery Network (NRN), a national effort to establish a resilient network of biodiverse places across the country. The delivery mechanism for the NRN is through Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS)—regional spatial strategies that identify priority sites for recovery. These local efforts so far have developed distinct spatial planning methodologies at varying levels of technical complexity. Lack of clarity and expertise on how to incorporate quantitative measures of ecological connectivity when developing spatial plans remains a key challenge in this process. Through conversations with LNRS practitioners and a thematic analysis of the documentation behind local spatial plans, this paper identifies key methodological approaches and systematic challenges to incorporating quantitative connectivity analysis into LNRSs. We then present a synthesis of practitioner reflections and summarise key recommendations for future area-based nature restoration spatial planning. Practitioners are faced with time, resources and data constraints, and modelling tools often become a ‘black box’ solution where practitioners and stakeholders feel disconnected from the results. Practical implications. Our recommendations and suggested methodological workflow provide both practitioners and policymakers guidance for moving towards integrating functional connectivity in spatial planning with consideration of data limitations, the value of transparent expert elicitation and the need for capacity building and knowledge sharing.