8 Hills Regional Park Spatial Framework awarded Building with Nature Policy Award
LUC is proud to announce that the 8 Hills Regional Park Spatial Framework has received a Building with Nature (BwN) Policy Award.
This recognises the framework’s commitment to high-quality green infrastructure and its potential to deliver meaningful benefits for both people and wildlife.
Supporting a greener future for the West Midlands
The National Trust commissioned LUC to create the spatial framework to guide the development of a new regional park close to Birmingham, Bromsgrove and Dudley.
The vision is bold: to connect communities to nature, enhance biodiversity and improve access to green spaces for thousands of people.
The framework sets out how new routes and access points will open nature-rich areas to residents.
It tackles long-standing inequalities in access to green space by identifying opportunities for inclusive recreation and sustainable travel options.
What the award recognises
The Building with Nature Policy Award confirms that the 8 Hills Regional Park Spatial Framework meets the highest standards for green infrastructure planning in the UK.
An Approved Assessor assessed the framework using the Building with Nature Standards 2.0. Sintali, who operates Building with Nature, then independently audited the work and issued the award.
The assessment praised the framework’s holistic approach to planning, strong focus on connectivity and multifunctional benefits, and clear alignment with the principles of Building with Nature.
It recognises that the framework will deliver long-term benefits for local communities and the environment if fully implemented.
A collaborative and inclusive approach
LUC worked closely with the National Trust team throughout to ensure the final product met their aspirations.
LUC also led wide-ranging engagement across the proposed regional park area and beyond to ensure local voices shaped the plan. This included consultations with residents, community groups and other stakeholders.
Their input helped define a shared vision for the regional park and guided key decisions on its design and delivery.
A connected park for people and wildlife
LUC’s team of planners, ecologists, and transport specialists worked together to shape a spatial framework for the regional park that supports active lifestyles and ecological resilience.
The framework connects existing green spaces, protects vital habitats and proposes wildlife corridors to improve ecological connectivity.
It also includes policy recommendations for integrating the park into the Bromsgrove District Local Plan.
Looking ahead
The 8 Hills Regional Park Spatial Framework is now a blueprint for delivery. It sets out how The National Trust and partners can bring the park to life and ensure it becomes a lasting asset for the people of south Birmingham, Bromsgrove and Dudley.
We are delighted to see this important project recognised with a Building with Nature Policy Award.
LUC looks forward to supporting the next stages of delivery and helping unlock access to nature for generations to come.
