Statutory guidance

The overall improvement test for the Nature Restoration Fund

Guidance on the interpretation of the overall improvement test, set out in the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025.

• From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
• Published: 17 September 2026

Applies to England

Documents

Nature Restoration Fund – overall improvement test (accessible)

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Nature Restoration Fund – overall improvement test

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Details

The overall improvement test (OIT) applies to Natural England when it’s preparing an Environmental Delivery Plan (EDP) as part of the Nature Restoration Fund.

Under the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, Natural England is required to set out how the conservation measures in an EDP will allow it to pass the OIT.

This letter provides detailed guidance on the government’s view on the interpretation of the OIT in the Act.

This view should be applied by both Natural England when drafting an EDP and by the Secretary of State when they are considering making the EDP.

Published 17 September 2026