Government initiative to prioritise green spaces

A new initiative has been announced in an effort to enable at least 100 towns and cities across the UK to become better places to live and work by prioritising nature and green spaces.

The initiative aims to enable councils, communities, partners and funders to shape it together as well as attracting further investment and support for greener and fairer urban communities, improving people’s health and wellbeing, creating better connected and more climate-resilient neighbourhoods. It will focus on those currently lacking nature and access to parks and open green space. 

The latest government data reveals well over 40 million people don’t have access to a green space a short walk from home.  

The initiative, Nature Towns & Cities, is being set up by The National Trust, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Natural England.

They are also working closely with NatureScot, Natural Resources Wales and Northern Ireland Environment Agency to take the initiative UK-wide.

 Marian Spain, chief executive at Natural England said: “Everybody should be able to connect with nature in their neighbourhood, and that includes people living in urban areas. Improved access to green spaces at the heart of our towns and cities creates healthier and better places to live which are resilient to climate change, and it provides huge support for people’s mental and physical wellbeing. 

“Nature Towns and Cities will offer local authorities and community groups the resources and expertise that they need to bring people closer to the natural environment and give them more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.” 

Local authorities and their partners, including community and other civic organisations, are invited to apply for capacity-building grants as part of the initiative.  From early next year there will also be the opportunity to join a peer network to share learning and practical solutions and take advantage of schemes to attract new investment.  

From 1 October, local authorities and their community partners will be able to apply for grants of between £250,000 to £1 million, with The National Lottery Heritage Fund making £15 million in funding available UK-wide. 

Grants have been designed to provide organisations with capacity and headspace to think and plan their urban green space for the long term. Grants will help to develop partnerships, leadership and capability and build the foundations for change, help to attract new income and investment for delivery and sustainability.  

From early 2025, organisations will also be able to connect to a UK-wide network of peers working on similar challenges, sharing answers and expertise to tap into best practice, and unlock the benefits of green spaces and nature for residents and communities. The network will serve local government, community organisations, charities and professionals across the UK, with access to a programme of events and training, a library of resources and tailored support.    

Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust said: “There is overwhelming evidence that access to green space improves our mental and physical health and wellbeing. Yet in England well over 40 million people don’t have access to green space close to home.

"Councils are uniquely placed to tackle this, working with their communities and local partners. We understand the difficulties caused by long term cuts to budgets and capacity, and we hope this initiative gives them the inspiration and support they need to improve everyday access to nature and the outdoors for all."