The Natural Environment Board was scheduled to discuss the Environment Department's high-level business plan for 2026-30 and review the board's terms of reference. Updates on the Climate Action Strategy and City Gardens were also on the agenda.

Annual Review of Terms of Reference

The Board was scheduled to consider the annual review of its terms of reference, as reported by the Town Clerk. This review is part of the implementation of the 2021 Governance Review, aiming to provide more time for committees to discuss proposed changes before they are submitted to the Policy and Resources Committee. Any significant amendments to the terms of reference are expected to be progressed through a broader review of the Natural Environment Charities. The report recommended that the terms of reference, subject to any comments, be approved for submission to the Court of Common Council in April 2026, with any further changes delegated to the Town Clerk in consultation with the Chair and Deputy Chair.

Environment Department High-Level Business Plan 2026-30

A key item for discussion was the Environment Department's high-level Business Plan for 2026-30. This plan outlines the department's priorities and the specific actions and targets for 2026/27. The report presented the elements of the plan that fall within the remit of the Natural Environment Board, specifically the Natural Environment Division and City Gardens. The plan details five priority workstreams:

• Nature conservation and resilience (including climate mitigation and adaptation): This workstream focuses on protecting and enhancing biodiversity and the resilience of green spaces, supporting the Corporate Plan outcome of 'leading sustainable environment' and the Climate Action Strategy's Carbon Removals Project.
• Access and recreation: This aims to provide accessible and welcoming open spaces that benefit public health and wellbeing, balancing visitor pressure with site protection.
• Culture, heritage and learning: This workstream focuses on providing more opportunities for children's outdoor play and learning, as well as protecting and promoting built heritage, landscape heritage, and archaeological assets.
• Develop a sustainable business model: Linked to the Natural Environment Charities Review, this workstream aims to improve financial security for charities, ensure compliance with charity law, and identify fundraising opportunities.
• City Gardens: Effectively manage the green spaces within the Square Mile: This workstream ensures the provision of well-maintained and accessible green spaces within the Square Mile for public enjoyment.

The report recommended that members note the factors considered in compiling the business plan and approve the elements falling within the Board's remit, subject to any requested changes.

Climate Action Strategy Update

Officers from the Environment Department were scheduled to provide a verbal update on the Climate Action Strategy.

City Gardens Update

A verbal update on City Gardens was also scheduled to be provided by officers from the Environment Department.

King George's Field Charity - Annual Report and Financial Statements

The Board was to receive the annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 for the King George's Field Charity. This was listed as an information item.

Risk Management Update (Summary)

A summary of the risk management update from the Executive Director, Environment, was scheduled for information. This included appendices detailing the NE Cross-Divisional Risks and the City of London Corporation Risk Matrix.