OEP seeks evidence of barriers to nature recovery, including coastal and marine restoration

The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) is inviting land managers, environmental organisations and marine practitioners to share examples of practical and regulatory barriers that prevent or delay nature recovery in England. The call for evidence opened on 19 October 2026 and closes at 23:59 on Monday 14 December 2026.

The call for evidence aims to identify specific obstacles affecting the delivery of conservation, restoration and environmental management projects on land, in freshwater and in coastal areas, including the intertidal zone. The OEP’s monitoring indicates that the Government remains largely off track to meet its environmental commitments, despite existing policies and funding.

Building on its 2023 call for evidence, which highlighted wider issues such as fragmented governance and limited regulatory capacity, here they focus on practical problems encountered during project delivery and potential solutions.

What evidence is the OEP looking for?

Factors that prevent, delay or discourage action that would benefit nature. Both actual barriers and perceived barriers are relevant. This could include complex or multiple consenting requirements, lengthy or unpredictable decisions, uncertainty over whether a permission is needed, or guidance that is interpreted more cautiously than necessary.

The OEP also wants examples of measures that have helped overcome these challenges, such as clearer guidance, improved processes, effective working relationships or exemptions.

The OEP is particularly interested in barriers affecting progress towards environmental targets, including the wildlife-rich habitat target and the commitment to protect and conserve 30% of land and sea by 2030 (30 by 30).

The call is open to anyone with relevant experience, including marine conservation charities, habitat restoration practitioners, environmental consultants, contractors, regulators, local authorities, businesses and environmental organisations.

The briefing document and response template can be found on the OEP website here.