The North of England is set to become the UK’s first nature-positive regional economy, according to a strategic plan launched today. Backed by over 50 cross-sector groups, businesses, and partnerships, Investing in Nature for the North: A Strategic Plan for a Nature Positive Regional Economy outlines a vision for driving environmental recovery while fostering economic growth.
The plan, shaped by insights from more than 400 contributors, is spearheaded by Nature North, an organisation dedicated to nature recovery across the region. With £500,000 in support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the initiative provides a roadmap for integrating nature conservation with sustainable development.
A Strategy for Economic Growth and Environmental Renewal
The plan details how the North is uniquely positioned to scale up environmental projects, attract investment, and enhance community wellbeing. By leveraging regional strengths, it aims to create new economic opportunities while protecting natural habitats.
Key initiatives include large-scale nature-recovery projects such as The Great North Bog and The Northern Forest, alongside urban and rural sustainability efforts in cities and counties across the North. Additionally, five investable propositions are in development, covering areas such as river restoration, coastal resilience, sustainable farming, urban green spaces, and infrastructure integration.
Mike Innerdale, Chair of Nature North, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “This plan highlights that a thriving environment and a strong economy are not mutually exclusive. The North can lead the way in nature’s recovery while driving sustainable economic growth.”
A Call for Greater Investment and Policy Support
As the North advances in devolution and net-zero initiatives, experts see this strategy as a catalyst for change. Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, underscored its transformative potential:
“The North is in a prime position to pioneer a nature-positive economy. By aligning investment with environmental goals, we can create a model that benefits communities, businesses, and the wider economy.”
Peter Young of The Broadway Initiative noted that businesses often struggle to navigate nature investment opportunities, adding: “This strategy introduces a more coordinated approach, allowing businesses to engage with high-integrity nature markets. The North already has leading projects demonstrating environmental recovery at scale. With the right leadership, nature investment can become a competitive advantage.”
A Model for the Future
Renowned ecologist Professor Sir John Lawton CBE FRS praised the initiative: “This is one of the most ambitious environmental strategies I have seen. A healthy environment underpins everything society relies on. The commitment from business leaders, policymakers, and communities fills me with hope.”
Clare Hayward MBE DL, Interim Chair of NP11, added: “Now is the time to take nature investment seriously. This plan shows the real-world impact of prioritising environmental sustainability alongside economic development.”
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, highlighted the practical benefits of nature-based solutions: “The North is already pioneering innovative projects like Resilient Glenderamakin, which uses natural flood management strategies. These approaches will help communities adapt to climate challenges while benefiting the environment.”
Shaping the Future of the North
The strategic plan will be a key topic at this week’s Convention of the North, bringing together business leaders, academics, policymakers, and community representatives to explore the region’s economic and environmental future.
As the North positions itself at the forefront of the UK’s green economy, this initiative aims to demonstrate how investment in nature can drive prosperity while safeguarding the environment for future generations.