Maidstone Borough Council in Kent has become the first local authority in the UK to formally adopt a Rights of Nature framework, recognising that nature has an intrinsic right to exist, thrive and evolve. Approved by the council in 2026 following a motion introduced in October 2025, the framework aims to move beyond treating nature simply as a factor in environmental policy. It places the health of rivers, trees, wildlife and ecosystems alongside social, economic and financial considerations in council decision-making. The approach is being incorporated into the council’s Biodiversity and Climate Change Action Plans, making nature protection part of everyday governance rather than a symbolic declaration.
The move comes as ecosystems face increasing pressure from habitat loss, climate change, pollution and biodiversity decline. Maidstone is already implementing measures including a 20% Biodiversity Net Gain requirement for residential development, nature-recovery projects, river protection, tree planting and the creation of community “Tiny Forests.” During the past year, the council reported planting 9,300 native trees and 280 metres of hedgerow, while its biodiversity action plan includes new wetlands, improved waterways and expanded food forests. By giving nature a stronger voice in local decisions, Maidstone is testing whether a rights-based approach can help make environmental protection a core part of planning and development—and potentially provide a model for other councils. More