The importance of integrating nature into urban planning strategies

The Natural History Museum’s Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII) found that the UK ranks in the bottom 10% globally for intact biodiversity, with over 40% of UK species declining in the last 50 years. Although we have ever-mounting construction targets to meet, we must do more to preserve green sites and support our natural environment, particularly in cities and urban areas. Therefore, how can we find ways to best integrate nature into planning and development?

According to research by Keep Britain Tidy, 70% of people in urban areas do not have access to good quality green space. As cities continue to grow and become more dense, the pressure on natural resources increases. The need for thoughtful, nature-integrated planning must be taken. Creating green spaces within urban environments is not just about aesthetics; it's about improving air quality, reducing urban heat islands and enhancing the mental and physical wellbeing of residents.

After attending the recent Futurebuild show, it was apparent that a priority in our sector remains tackling climate change and the mission towards building a low-carbon future. It does not mean halting construction output but more about finding ways to optimise how we plan, build and develop. The Future Homes Standard (FHS) and Future Buildings Standard (FBS), which come into effect in 2025, have been developed with the aim of reducing carbon emissions from new homes and buildings. Yet, we have to go beyond regulations to achieve net-zero targets and integrating nature is an effective method in creating a more sustainable, harmonious and less polluted built environment.

One insightful discussion I sat in on, '(Re)building better places for people and nature', considered the importance of ‘placemaking’ through nature. By definition, placemaking is ‘the process of creating quality places that people want to live, work, play, and learn in’. The panel featured Dr. Gemma Jerome, Head of Green Infrastructure at Sintali, Ryan Mills, Director and Chartered Landscape Architect at Planscape Consultants Ltd, and Cristina Refolo, Founding Director at Refolo Landscape Architects Ltd. They considered different ways we can achieve enhanced living spaces through nature and it got me fascinated in exploring the topic further!

Legislative change

In recent years, we’ve seen building regulations change to improve environmental protection. The Environment Act 2021 mandates that most developments in England must achieve a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain.

Natural England’s Green Infrastructure framework was also developed to increase the amount of green cover to 40% in urban residential areas.

However, the new government is facing mounting pressure from nature charities, such as the RSPB and the National Trust, to strengthen environmental protections in new planning laws.

The Planning & Infrastructure Bill has faced widespread criticism for failing to implement strict rules that mean environmental benefits significantly outweigh harm from development. It will be interesting to see how it develops ahead of its second reading in Parliament.

Green infrastructure

The chair of the panel debate, Dr. Gemma Jerome, highlighted the importance of green infrastructure in creating resilient, sustainable places.

Incorporating green infrastructures, such as blue and green roofs, permeable pavements and rain gardens, provide long-term, climate-friendly options. These elements not only provide aesthetic and recreational value but also help manage stormwater, reduce flooding and support biodiversity. They are a prime example of how we can merge environmental function with urban aesthetics to create spaces that serve both people and nature.

Ryan Mills was the second speaker and also noted how the strategic principles of green infrastructure must create habitat connectivity and species diversity. The National Green Infrastructure framework has been introduced to act as planning guidance for incorporating nature into building design. It emphasises the benefits of green infrastructure in fostering active and healthy places, thriving local economies and climate resilience.

Water management

The final speaker from the panel, Cristina Refolo, stressed the importance of water management and SuDs drainage systems. They act as an effective method in creating water quality, quantity and amenity spaces. As water is an essence of life, we can effectively repurpose excess rainwater back into the surrounding environment.

Fabrick works with multiple clients who offer blue and green roof solutions. As a form of sustainable drainage (SuDs) for roofs, they cool buildings, improve water quality, mitigate against the urban heat island (UHI) effect and crucially, create new urban habitats for wildlife. Now that’s one way to benefit building and environment!

Biophilic design

Another emerging concept is biophilic design, which focuses on connecting people to nature through the built environment. This design philosophy incorporates elements, such as natural light, indoor plants, water features and green spaces, into the very fabric of buildings and public areas. Beyond its obvious visual appeal, biophilic design ultimately promotes a deeper connection with nature.

We all know ourselves the power of connecting with the natural environment and wildlife around us. Studies have shown nature lowers stress, improves cognitive function and enhances overall wellbeing. It’s certainly becoming flavour of the month in the realms of building design and development!

Community engagement

Another key takeaway from Futurebuild was the notable emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity in urban planning. Placemaking is not just about adding greenery but it also involves engaging communities in the process, ensuring that the spaces created truly reflect their needs and aspirations.

Whether through participatory design processes, community gardens or local sustainability initiatives, involving residents in the creation of their environment fosters a deeper sense of ownership and care.

Conclusion

Ultimately, integrating nature into urban areas is not just a revolutionary trend; it’s a necessity for meeting climate targets and building a future-proof, resilient and sustainable built environment. Futurebuild underscored our collective responsibility in construction and development sectors to embrace these innovative approaches and prioritise nature in every aspect of planning, design and development.

By doing so, we can ensure that our cities and urban areas become not only places where people live but places where both people and nature thrive together. I feel this quote by Matt Browne of the Wildlife Trusts sums up my thoughts - ‘nature does not block growth - it is the very foundation on which growth is built’. Together as an industry, let’s actively encourage the integration of nature into future urban planning and development!

Author: James Threadingham

Digital Content Executive

Contact James Threadingham

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