Published on 20 August 2026
Natural England’s Explore framework is a high-level, inter-disciplinary decision-support tool that prioritises health, wellbeing, nature and sustainability outcomes, helping users put these at the centre of strategic planning conversations. Showcased at the LGA annual conference and exhibition, it has been developed with partners including the RENEW community action team at the University of Exeter.
In July, the Bournemouth International Centre hosted the Local Government Association Annual Conference and Exhibition. The Local Government Association is the national membership body for local authorities. The association’s flagship event is an important opportunity for decision-makers (mayors and deputy mayors, leaders and deputy leaders, elected members, chief executives, and representatives from the business, voluntary, and community sectors) to come together for a three-day showcase of innovation, policy debate, networking, and public service at the local government level.
The conference exhibition zone hosted an exhibit of the newly launched Explore Framework, a partnership which included Natural England, RENEW and Local Partnerships. Conference delegates were able to see and interact with the component elements (factor maps, outcome dashboards, and horizon scanning cards) of the framework and, through discussions with the exhibit team, gain an understanding of how it could assist in the challenges faced by local government across the country.
This year’s conference was notable for the popularity of sessions related to local government reorganisation and devolution. Local governments are tasked with ending the two-tier system and establishing new single-tier unitary councils to address fragmented public services and accountability, and to think strategically for the longer-term benefit of the local area. The Explore Framework can assist as a practical, evidence-based toolkit for local authorities to navigate complex planning challenges through a structured approach to strategic planning, policy alignment, data integration, and facilitated collaborative decision-making across departments and sectors, making it a useful tool for senior decision-makers. In particular, discussions focused on applying the Explore Framework to spatial development strategies, local plans, and a range of sector plans, including green infrastructure and transport plans.
By the close of the conference, the Explore Framework had been introduced to delegates from all the major political parties. Follow-up discussions are ongoing about the best use of the Framework for the challenges and objectives in those local areas.
‘It was fantastic to connect with local politicians and Chief Executives in person, and gain a deeper understanding of the strategic planning challenges they’re looking to address.
A standout theme at the conference was the importance of creating healthier places through joined-up local action. We heard inspiring contributions from Lord Victor Adebowale CBE (NHS Alliance Chair) and Professor Lisa McNally (Director of Public Health, Worcestershire County Council), who discussed how local government can support public health and wellbeing by shaping the homes, streets, parks and schools where people live their everyday lives.
This conversation, and others like it that took place throughout the conference, reinforced why integrated planning matters for people and places. The Explore Framework is designed to help local authorities understand the connections between health, nature and other government functions, supporting more holistic decisions that improve the long-term sustainability of places.
We’re working alongside our partners at Local Partnerships to pursue the conversations we had with public representatives during the conference about its application in Spatial Development Plans for new Strategic Authorities. Watch this space!’
Dora Young, Natural England Senior Specialist working on Explore
More information on the Explore Framework can be found here https://localpartnerships.gov.uk/how-we-help/explore
To subscribe to the Explore monthly newsletter contact: HWNSTool-project@naturalengland.org.uk
Read our case study to find out more about the role of Prof Oliver James & Dr Jamie McCauley on Explore
Find out more about the work of Theme 2: Community Action
