Supported by funding from the E3 Sharing Space for Nature initiative, we are leading the formation of a Spatial Nature Planning (SNaP) Community in England.

This is a community of practice for those based in England and involved with conservation planning in the UK and internationally. While systematic conservation planning (SCP) is a proven approach globally, its uptake in England has been limited. The SNaP Community therefore aims to foster the exchange of experiences and expertise to help SCP meaningfully support relevant policy and practice in the country.

To support this, we are hosting annual SNaP Forums, bringing together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The SNaP Forum 2026 will be on 24-26 March 2026 – please save the date!

The first Forum, which was held in April 2025, introduced SCP, explored its applications, and discussed objectives for the SNaP Community and how it can help operationalise SCP in England for the achievement of nature recovery goals. Outcomes of workshops and discussions are being used to inform the development of the SNAP Community and priorities for the SNAP Forum 2026.