Embedding environmental priorities into Spatial Development Strategies
ADEPT is working with environmental consultancy and corporate partner Aether to develop a proof‑of‑concept programme to help councils embed environmental and climate priorities within their Spatial Development Strategies in a way that is strategic, measurable and practical. The offer focuses on identifying a small number of strategic environmental outcomes closely aligned with the SDS ambition of Resilient Growth. These outcomes will be woven into the SDS at a high strategic level, supported by KPIs that enable credible monitoring, evaluation and policy adjustment. Rather than producing a new tool, Aether will establish a Community of Practice (CoP) bringing together technical and policy officers from interested councils to co‑design a replicable approach grounded in real‑world capacity and existing data.
Aether will support councils to:
- Develop a simple, strategic framework for integrating climate, nature and environmental priorities into SDSs.
- Strengthen the evidence base, including data gathering, baselines, trends and identification of gaps.
- Identify co‑benefits to reinforce the case for environmental integration across wider political and economic priorities.
- Reframe environmental constraints as drivers of innovation and strategic opportunities.
- Collaborate across authorities to reduce costs, avoid duplication and accelerate shared learning
There are only six places available for this first sprint – and Surrey County Council has already confirmed its participation, leaving five places remaining. If you are interested in being involved or would like more information, please contact Hannah Bartram asap.