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Excellence in Planning for the Natural Environment winners, commended and finalists

Excellence in Planning for the Natural Environment

This award celebrates outstanding projects that improve the natural environment through conservation, restoration or enhancement. 

Winner
The judges' comments: The Lower Darent Riverside Strategy stands out for its comprehensive, evidence-based approach to sustainable flood defence. Judges applauded its innovative use of nature-based solutions, strong policy links, and adaptive, community-focused engagement. This project sets a benchmark for resilience, inclusivity, and regeneration, offering valuable lessons for others. Lower Darent Riverside Strategy submitted by Dartford Borough Council and Arup

The Lower Darent Riverside Strategy innovatively addresses flood risks and climate adaptation, enhancing community resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable development through Nature-based Solutions and holistic design.

Commended
The judges' comments: Judges commended this project for its innovative phosphorus mitigation, which unlocks housing development and significantly improves water quality, setting a benchmark for sustainable planning. Winchester Nutrient Mitigation Strategy submitted by Winchester City Council and the Partnership for South Hampshire

Designing a nutrient mitigation strategy was challenging. The outcome has been positive, unlocking thousands of homes, whilst improving the water quality in key rivers.

Finalists
Assessment of Air Quality Impacts on European Sites in Staffordshire, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley
South Staffordshire Council, Lichfield District Council, Cannock Chase District Council, Stafford Borough Council, East Staffordshire Borough Council. Wolverhampton City Council, Dudley Council, Walsall Council, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council & Natural England
Harmony Energy - Pillswood Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
Harmony Energy Limited
Her Teifi Challenge
Ceredigion County Council
London Borough of Newham Green and Water Infrastructure Strategy
Arkwood Ltd.
Lower Darent Riverside Strategy
Dartford Borough Council and Arup
Saltford WRC Access Road and Bridge
Wessex Water (as delivered by YTL Infrastructure).
Wealden District Council- Southern Water LPA Stakeholder Group
Wealden District Council
Winchester Nutrient Mitigation Strategy
Winchester City Council and the Partnership for South Hampshire