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Environmental Delivery Plans

Asked by James McMurdockIndependentDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 9 January 2026UIN 102582

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, in what circumstances Natural England may propose that an Environmental Delivery Plan be made mandatory.

Answered by Mary Creagh

The majority of Environmental Delivery Plans are expected to be voluntary.

In exceptional circumstances it is possible for Environmental Delivery Plans to be mandatory if it is recommended by Natural England and the Secretary of State agrees that this is necessary.

Further detail on the circumstances in which Natural England may propose mandatory Environmental Delivery Plans will be set out in guidance.

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