Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 3, 2025

Purpose: The Environment Act 2021 introduced a strengthened 'biodiversity duty' requiring all public authorities in England to consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity. Public authorities are required to set out a plan confirming how they will comply with this duty and the actions they can take. Thereafter, authorities must set appropriate policies and specific objectives; and then they must take action. This report sets out how Epping Forest District Council meets the first requirement to consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity.

Content: (1)        That the Cabinet acknowledged the Council’s responsibility to comply with the biodiversity duty as set out in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 (as amended by the Environment Act 2021).   (2)        That the Cabinet approved the contents of the Biodiversity Duty - First Consideration Statement for publication.