CIEEM engages with Defra on updates to Habitats Regulations Assessment guidance

CIEEM has today engaged with Defra civil servants on forthcoming updates to the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) guidance, contributing to a workshop exploring how the current guidance is working in practice and where improvements are needed.

During the session, Defra sought views on aspects of the existing guidance that support effective decision-making, as well as areas where it can be clearer, more consistent and better aligned with real-world application.

CIEEM is grateful to Caroline Chapman (DTA Ecology) and Ben Kite (EPR – Ecological Planning and Research), both highly experienced HRA practitioners, for representing the Institute at the workshop and sharing their professional expertise and practical insights.

Defra will now begin work on revising the guidance through 2026, with further opportunities for CIEEM to engage as the process develops. Updated guidance is expected to be published later in 2026.