Purpose

Approval of the final draft of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Kent.

Decision

RESOLVED:

1. That Tunbridge Wells Borough Council notify the Responsible Body (Kent County Council) for the Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) that in response to the ‘pre-publication’ version of the LNRS that this Council supports the formal publication of the LNRS be approved. 
2. That the Cabinet member for Planning approves/signs off the draft letter included at Appendix A of this report, which shall then be submitted, on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, on or before the pre-publication consultation deadline of the 29 September 2025 be approved.

Reasons for the decision

To agree to submit the letter of support on behalf of TWBC is favourable because in the absence of any reason to submit a ‘publication advisory notice’ it is a demonstration of the Council’s commitment to its role as a Supporting Authority to the LNRS process and is a recognition of the positive engagement between KCC and TWBC in bring the LNRS forward.

Alternative options considered

Do nothing and not respond to the issue of the ‘pre-publication.  Whilst only a negative response is required, if warranted by the circumstances, it would seem unreasonable not to provide a supportive comment as part of our role as a Supporting Authority if TWBC are not going to issue a ‘pre-publication advisory notice’.

To issue a ‘publication advisory notice’ and have the matter referred top the Secretary of State.  Officers have not identified any reasons to follow such an action.