🌿May 2025 Meeting Highlights 🌿

Last week’s in-person meeting brought together a passionate and knowledgeable group of partners committed to nature recovery across Surrey.

Here are some of the key themes we explored:

🔄 Local Government Reorganisation
We discussed the upcoming shift to unitary authorities and what it means for biodiversity partnerships, delivery structures, and strategic influence. The message was clear: we must be ready to shape the new landscape.

🧪 Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Monitoring
Still in its early days, BNG implementation is facing challenges—from legal frameworks and Section 106 agreements to issues with the national register and compliance. A shared learning approach will be vital.

🌱 Habitat Management & Local Engagement
Examples of missed opportunities in verge and parish land management highlighted the need for better communication and integration of biodiversity into local maintenance contracts.

🤝 Countryside Management Partnerships
Recognised as a successful, scalable model with deep roots in community engagement—yet facing funding uncertainty. Could this be a blueprint for the future?

🔥 Climate Change & Ecosystem Resilience
We explored the links between biodiversity and climate adaptation, including rewetting heathlands, wildfire prevention, and the need for better signposting of scientific resources.

🗺️ Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)
Mapping is underway, with public consultation expected in July. The challenge: balancing ambition with national expectations while ensuring local priorities are reflected.

🌼 Field Day 2025
We’re planning a summer field day on 3rd July—an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate local biodiversity in action.

💬 Partner Updates
From dormouse monitoring and dragonfly surveys to habitat restoration and volunteer engagement, the breadth of work happening across Surrey is inspiring.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed. Collaboration like this is what drives meaningful change.

Drop us a line if you’d like to be part of the group!
Biodiversity Working Group