The Natural Environment Board is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 29 January 2026, to review its terms of reference and consider the Environment Department's high-level business plan for 2026-30. The board will also receive updates on the Climate Action Strategy and City Gardens.

Annual Review of Terms of Reference

The board will consider an annual review of its terms of reference, as reported by the Town Clerk. This review is part of a wider governance process to ensure committees have sufficient time 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 separate Natural Environment Charities Review. The current terms of reference, which outline the board's responsibilities for overseeing strategies, managing gardens, churchyards, and open spaces, and advising on planning applications related to these areas, are attached as an appendix. The board is asked to approve the terms of reference 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 decision is the Environment Department's high-level Business Plan for 2026-30. This plan outlines the department's priority workstreams and the specific actions and targets for 2026/27. The report details how the department's work supports the City of London Corporation's Corporate Plan 2024-29, including outcomes such as leading sustainable environment, flourishing public spaces, and diverse engaged communities.

The plan is divided into sections relevant to different committees, with Section C specifically addressing the remit of the Natural Environment Board, covering the Natural Environment Division and City Gardens. The priority workstreams for this section include:

• Nature conservation and resilience: Focusing on improving and creating habitats, protecting sites from encroachment, managing animal and plant health, and delivering the Climate Action Strategy's Carbon Removals Project.
• Access and recreation: Aiming to provide safe and welcoming open spaces, maintain recreational facilities, and mitigate the impact of visitors in sensitive areas.
• Culture, heritage and learning: Concentrating on protecting heritage assets, providing educational opportunities for children, and exploring innovative models for heritage asset rehabilitation.
• Develop a sustainable business model: This workstream is linked to the Natural Environment Charities Review and aims to improve financial security, ensure compliance with charity law, and maximise fundraising opportunities.
• City Gardens: Effectively manage the green spaces within the Square Mile: This involves ensuring well-maintained and accessible green spaces and developing a replacement for the Biodiversity Action Plan.

The report also includes information on the estimated funding and people resources for each workstream, performance measures, and the impacts of these priorities. The board is asked to note the factors considered in compiling the business plan and approve the elements that fall within its remit.

Climate Action Strategy Update

Officers from the Environment Department are scheduled to provide a verbal update on the Climate Action Strategy. This update is for information only.

City Gardens Update

A verbal update on City Gardens will also be provided by officers from the Environment Department, for information.

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

The board will receive the annual report and financial statements for the King George's Field Charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. This report, prepared by the Chamberlain and the Executive Director, Environment, is for information.

Risk Management Update

A summary of the risk management update for the Natural Environment Board will be presented. This report is for information.