Nutrient Neutrality in Planning - Challenges, Reform & Practical Solutions

Introduction

Struggling to keep pace with the rapidly evolving legal and policy framework surrounding nutrient neutrality in planning? You are not alone and the implications for development timelines, consenting risk and legal challenge are becoming increasingly significant.

This new virtual classroom seminar is designed specifically for planning and environmental lawyers, providing a clear and practical analysis of nutrient neutrality as it continues to evolve in law, policy and practice. It will unpack the key legal and procedural challenges, alongside emerging opportunities for developers and local planning authorities operating within a constrained regulatory environment. The session will explore the key legal and procedural issues affecting development, as well as the emerging opportunities and mitigation strategies being adopted by developers and local planning authorities.

You will examine how recent changes to nutrient mitigation approaches are reshaping planning decisions, project delivery and the allocation of legal risk across development schemes. Particular focus will be given to the interaction with the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, relevant duties on decision-makers and the impact of recent case law.

You will also gain practical insight into what is working in practice to accelerate mitigation delivery at scale and how legal frameworks are being structured to support or constrain development. The session will also consider how to structure approaches that minimise delay, reduce inefficiency and limit exposure to legal challenge.

Register today to strengthen your understanding of nutrient neutrality and equip yourself with the legal and practical strategies needed to navigate this complex and fast-moving area with confidence.

What You Will Learn

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Assess the key challenges and risks for local planning authorities and developers, including:
• Requirements under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
• Duties placed on local planning authorities under the 2017 Regulations
• Implications of recent case law developments
• Nutrient mitigation schemes and their application in practice
• Understand the Government’s emerging alternative approach to nutrient neutrality, including Environmental Delivery Plans and the Nature Restoration Fund:
• What this means for local planning authorities and developers
• Practical considerations and likely next steps

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.