Restoring Nature, Shaping Planning
Cambridgeshire is one of the most nature-depleted counties in England and faces increasing pressure from population growth and development. This is both a threat to nature and public well-being but there is also an opportunity to ensure that as Cambridge grows so does the amount of nature-rich green space.
Cambridge Past, Present & Future is playing a leading role in advancing a positive vision for nature recovery and more green space, through collaborative work with decision-makers, planners and conservation partners. In 2021 we published the Cambridge Nature Network which is a plan for nature recovery in the Cambridge area. Its vision is for Cambridge to have significant areas of downland, fens, meadows, waterways and woodlands around it, where nature can recover and thrive and where people can experience a wilder countryside and nature on their doorstep.
This piece of work was ahead of its time, and the government has since required all areas to produce plans for nature recovery. The ideas of the Cambridge Nature Network have now been incorporated into The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS). This is the responsibility of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, and they want to hear what you think of their strategy by 11 September 2025. The strategy includes an interactive Local Habitat Map, a Statement of Biodiversity Priorities, and mapped actions for nature recovery. Find out more and respond to the consultation here.
As well as trying to ensure that the future growth of Cambridge results in more nature and green space, Cambridge Past, Present & Future is also working with partners to help nature and green space now. One way we do this is by making improvements to the land that our charity owns, and by expanding the area of green space that we care for. For example, in 2021 we were able to buy land to expand Wandlebury in size by 25%, in 2024 we brought-in hand 27 acres of farmland at Coton Countryside Reserve and in 2025 we have taken on the management of Grantchester Meadows.
We have also been able to work with partners to secure grant funding to carry out habitat and community projects to benefit nature in the Cambridge area. Since 2022 over 24 projects have been completed with over £500,000 invested. These range from creating new woodlands, wetlands and meadows, to working with school children to provide nature in their grounds, to helping landowners and communities take their own action and connecting people to nature through a Cambridge Nature Festival. The diverse range of organisations involved in achieving them includes local charities, local councils, community groups, local landowners, schools, contractors as well as individual people helping to plant trees and sow seeds.
In Summary
Cambridge Past Present & Future doesn’t just respond to threats to nature and green spaces — it is working hard behind the scenes to help shape and deliver a positive and greener future for Cambridge.
We are incredibly grateful to our members and donors, who’s support enables CambridgePPF to do this important work.
James Littlewood
CEO, Cambridge Past, Present & Future
