The on Tees Valley's draft Local has closed. Responses will be considered before the plan is finalised.
expects publication in December 2026, subject to Cabinet approval. The strategy has not yet been adopted.
What is proposed?
The draft identifies important existing natural habitats and maps locations where wildlife habitats could be improved, restored or created. It is intended to inform planning and investment decisions across the five Tees Valley boroughs.
Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees councils worked with the authority, Natural England and the North York Moors National Park Authority on the strategy.
The draft includes an overview, a local map and a statement of priorities and measures. Its mapping shows potential opportunities rather than guaranteed projects or compulsory changes for landowners.
What happens next?
responses will be reviewed and may inform changes to the final document. A Cabinet decision is expected before publication, but no approval has been announced.
The original announcement and the dedicated consultation page give different October closing dates. Both now confirm the consultation has ended.
Residents can find the draft documents and future updates through the Tees Valley Combined Authority's Local Nature Recovery Strategy consultation page.