Summary

This one day workshop, held in Barnstaple on 12th July 2012, explored the implications of an ecosystems approach for spatial planning in the context of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The NPPF emphasises the need for the planning system to protect and enhance valued landscapes, natural features, biodiversity and wider ecosystem services. An ecosystems approach is highlighted by the 2011 Natural Environment White Paper as one way of ensuring the natural environment is protected and enhanced by planning policies.

Workshop participants learnt about the pioneering work of North Devon Council in integrating an ecosystems approach into planning. North Devon provides a particularly useful setting to explore how an ecosystems approach may help planners in their work because of its unique set of designations for land, sea and sky. This includes a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. 

Report

A report on the event can be found in Issue 2 of Ecosystems News.

Speakers and presentations

Powerpoint slides

• Dr Rob Fish, Centre for Rural Policy Research at the University of Exeter: Workshop introduction and background to an ecosystems approach
• Professor Alister Scott, (Professor of Environmental and Spatial Planning, Birmingham City University): the relationship between the natural and built environment sectors
• Andrew Austen, Planning Department, North Devon Council: Integrating an ecosystems approach into planning
• Juliet Bidgood (Vice-chair of the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: management of the Reserve in the context of an ecosystems approach (Part 1 and Part 2)

Audio recording

• Mike Kelly, Planning Manager, North Devon Council: North Devon Council and an ecosystms approach (10 MB mp3)