The April 2026 Biodiversity Policy Update: What It Means for Local Councils

Katy
Apr 8
3 min read

Turning Policy Into Local Action: Practical Support for Councils

Source: Recent UK policy updates and reports including Biodiversity Net Gain guidance, Local Nature Recovery Strategies rollout updates, and the UK’s 2026 National Biodiversity Progress Report published by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, alongside ongoing reforms linked to the Environment Act 2021.

Why this update matters to parish, town and community councils

April marks the start of the new financial year for councils, making it a key moment for setting priorities and delivering biodiversity projects.

At the same time, national policy is shifting from framework to implementation and delivery, particularly through Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS).

For councils managing parks, verges, churchyards, cemeteries and small green spaces, these policies are now directly influencing how land is planned, funded and improved at a local level.

Key facts and targets to know

Nature recovery remains a national priority in the UK, supported by legally binding targets under the Environment Act 2021:

Halt the decline in species abundance by 2030 and increase levels by 2042
Create or restore 500,000 hectares of wildlife-rich habitat outside protected sites by 2042
Increase tree and woodland cover to 16.5 percent by 2050

However, the UK’s latest 2026 progress assessment shows that most biodiversity targets are not yet on track, highlighting the need for faster delivery at all levels, including local government.

Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS) in England

LNRS are now being rolled out across the country, with over half of areas already adopted and the remainder expected during 2026.

They provide:

A mapped plan of priority habitats
Strategic locations for restoration
A framework for investment and delivery

These strategies will increasingly shape local planning decisions and funding priorities.

Emerging policy and reform

Alongside implementation, the government is continuing to refine biodiversity policy through consultations and planning reform.

This includes:

Adjustments to how BNG is applied to smaller developments
New approaches to funding large-scale nature recovery
Ongoing alignment with international biodiversity targets

The overall direction remains clear:👉 a shift toward measurable, large-scale and locally delivered biodiversity outcomes.

What this means for councils right now

Plan for spring delivery: Spring is the key season for implementing biodiversity improvements, including meadow creation, planting and habitat works.

Use BNG proactively: Councils can identify land for habitat creation, support off-site biodiversity delivery and engage with developers early.

Engage with LNRS: Ensure local assets such as verges, cemeteries, ponds and small woodlands are included in your area’s strategy.

Focus on visible outcomes: There is increasing expectation to demonstrate measurable biodiversity gains through practical action.

Align budgets with biodiversity goals: April provides a critical opportunity to embed biodiversity into grounds maintenance and community investment.

How Green Council Biodiversity Solutions can help

At Green Council Biodiversity Solutions, we support councils in turning policy into action. We can help with:

Biodiversity Action Plans and baseline assessments
Guidance on integrating biodiversity into planning and budgeting
Feasibility studies and practical solutions for habitats such as ponds, verges, wildflower meadows, and community spaces

By working with us, councils can confidently deliver measurable biodiversity improvements, meet national targets, and create thriving green spaces for local communities.

Get in touch today to discuss how we can support your next biodiversity project and help your council lead the way in local nature recovery.