A lively and insightful discussion took place at Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office this week, where industry leaders gathered for a roundtable exploring how to balance environmental priorities with efficient housing delivery. Representing RSK, Dr Stephanie Wray joined a distinguished panel including experts from the Land, Planning and Development Federation (LPDF), Keepmoat, and Irwin Mitchell.
The discussion focused on the changing dynamics of planning and development policy, specifically highlighting the government’s new Planning and Infrastructure Bill. While the Bill has been met with cautious optimism across the sector, panellists agreed that the detail will be critical to its successful implementation.
Key topics on the agenda included Proposals to streamline the planning process, The expanded role of development corporations, Reform of compulsory purchase powers and Introduction of the Nature Restoration Levy.
Dr. Stephanie Wray contributed her ecological knowledge to the conversation, especially during a thorough analysis of Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs). These plans are anticipated to be crucial in balancing the pressing demand for new housing with the obligations to preserve biodiversity and promote environmental restoration.
“There’s a real opportunity here to embed nature-based thinking into the heart of development strategy,” said Dr Wray. “But it will require collaboration across planning, legal, and ecological disciplines to make EDPs both robust and deliverable.”
Joining Dr Wray on the panel were:
Phill Bamford, Planning Specialist, LPDF
Charlotte Gray, Ecology Lead, Keepmoat
Claire Petricca-Riding, Planning Solicitor, Irwin Mitchell
Together, they explored the challenges and opportunities presented by the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and called for a joined-up approach to policy, delivery, and environmental responsibility.
This event highlighted the importance of multi-sector collaboration in shaping a planning system that delivers homes, infrastructure, and meaningful environmental outcomes. RSK Biocensus is proud to be at the forefront of these essential conversations.