Nature as National Infrastructure: Natural England Leaders Make Final Case to Parliament
In a compelling appearance before the Environmental Audit Committee, Natural England’s top leadership urged MPs to shift the national narrative, arguing that environmental restoration is the foundation of economic stability and security, rather than a hindrance to progress.
As the tenure of two of the UK’s most influential environmental advocates draws to a close, Chair Tony Juniper and Chief Executive Marian Spain appeared before Parliament’s Environmental Audit Committee this week. The session served as both a retrospective on their seven-year leadership and a definitive manifesto for the role of the natural world in the UK’s future.
Dismantling the “False Choice”
Throughout the two-hour inquiry, a central theme emerged: the persistent, damaging narrative that economic development and environmental protection are mutually exclusive.
Both Juniper and Spain challenged this “false choice” head-on. Spain articulated that Natural England’s role is not to impede the development of homes or infrastructure, but to integrate nature into the planning process to ensure sustainable, long-term growth. Juniper reinforced this, suggesting that natural assets—such as wetlands, woodlands, and healthy coastlines—should be treated as essential infrastructure that provides measurable returns to society.
“Nature is not a barrier to the things the country needs to achieve,” the leadership duo asserted. “It is fundamental to achieving them.”
A Legacy of Strategic Transformation
Reflecting on their partnership, which began in 2019, Juniper noted the significant evolution of the organisation. He highlighted a sharpened strategic direction, increased investment, and a renewed sense of purpose that has allowed Natural England to deliver on a vast array of fronts.
From the implementation of the Environmental Land Management schemes to high-profile species recovery projects, such as the reintroduction of beavers and white-tailed eagles, the organisation has shifted its stance. Under their guidance, the body moved toward the strategy of Recovering Nature for Growth, Health and Security, which frames healthy ecosystems as critical support systems for national health and economic resilience.
Climate Resilience and Social Equity
The Committee also explored the urgent reality of climate change. With the UK experiencing record-breaking temperatures, the discussion turned to the role of nature-based solutions in climate adaptation.
Spain emphasized the “nature gap,” pointing to the inequality in access to green spaces. She noted that communities with the least access to nature are often the most vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat and flooding. By investing in programs like “Nature Towns and Cities,” the organisation aims to simultaneously bolster climate resilience and improve public health outcomes.
The Road Ahead
As Marian Spain prepares to step down at the end of September and Tony Juniper approaches the end of his term next year, the hearing served as a poignant milestone for the organisation.
Committee Chair Toby Perkins MP acknowledged their contributions, noting the breadth of expertise within Natural England—from scientists and land management advisors to infrastructure specialists. While the session highlighted significant progress, the overriding message to their successors and the government was a challenge: to continue viewing nature not as a “nice-to-have” luxury, but as the essential bedrock upon which the nation’s future security and prosperity must be built.
