To consider a report to the Future Oxfordshire Partnership providing an update on the progress of the Oxfordshire Local Nature Partnership, highlighting areas of focus for the Partnership moving forward and setting out points for the development of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Minutes:
The Panel considered a report to the Future Oxfordshire Partnership providing an update on the progress of the Oxfordshire Local Nature Partnership (ONLP). This not only included information on the ONLP’s areas of focus, but also set out details relating to the process for the development of a Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS). Matt Whitney, Oxfordshire Local Nature Partnership Manager, gave a presentation (details of which can be found here) highlighting some of the key areas of focus within the report.
In discussion, the Panel noted that there appeared to be a deficit of national legislation and guidance relating to natural capital investment. Members expressed the view that the ONLP should be working with other local authorities and nature partnerships to ensure a consistent, evidence-based approach was being taken across the country. (Particular attention was drawn to the issue of carbon credits, where a lack of effective oversight and measurement had created several problems). The importance of cross boundary working was also emphasised in relation to the issue of nature routing arising from development.
The Chair commented on the importance of youth engagement as the work of the OLNP moved forward.
In conclusion, the Scrutiny Panel welcomed the update and supported the recommendations set out in the report.
1. The need for continued joint working and coordination with organisations in neighbouring counties given the cross border nature of biodiversity corridors.
2. The need for the introduction of a performance matrix to set a base line by which to monitor and assess the natural economy effectiveness of the outcomes of the Local Nature Partnership.
3. That ways of levering in the involvement of youth organisations as part of the Local Nature Partnership’s work be fully explored.
4. That it recognise the challenges around the independence of consultants commissioned to undertake Biodiversity Net Gain assessments.
5. The need for adequate funding to support the high level of aspiration of the Local Nature Partnership, whilst recognising the importance of not competing with partners for limited funds.
Supporting documents:
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