Futurebuild 2026

Research has proved that people need access to nature for their physical and mental health and wellbeing. National aspirations not only seem to increase biodiversity but also to improve access to nature for all. Sadly, progress has remained slow.
More in Common and the Green Infrastructure Partnership (GIP), supported by the Wates Family Enterprise Trust has carried out research which demonstrates that the public see parks and green spaces as priority issues and highly value them in their areas. However, this message has failed to reach politicians, who often position nature as a ‘blocker’ to growth or only of interest to a minority of people.
Making change happen will require clear policy asks from government to promote nature in the heart of neighbourhoods across England. Join us at this session and progress the discussion on nature positive neighbourhoods for all.

Chair: Tessa Tricks, Programme Lead - Nature Based Neighbourhoods, Wates Family Enterprise Trust

What the research has shown us
Andrew Fowler, Researcher, More in Common

The policy changes needed to support urban greening
Celia Davis, Project and Policy Manager, Town and Country Planning Association

Hosted by the Green Infrastructure Partnership (TCPA)