Networks November: Green and Blue Water Networks

10:00-10:15 | Welcome and introduction

·    Explain why natural infrastructure matters now for water resilience and climate adaptation.

·    Frame nature-based solutions as core infrastructure rather than optional enhancements.

·    Set out the day’s focus on planning, development, delivery and cross-sector collaboration.

10:15-10:45 | Scene-setter keynote

·    Establish the national policy and infrastructure context for blue-green networks.

·    Explore the case for treating flood protection, water management and cooling as core assets.

·    Connect nature-based solutions to wider economic, environmental and resilience goals.

10:45-11:30 | Session 1: Development and biodiversity

·    Examine how housing and development can support biodiversity net gain.

·    Consider how blue-green infrastructure can be designed in from the start.

·    Use development case studies to test what works in former agricultural and growth areas.

11:30-11:45 | Break

·    Refreshments and networking.

·    Informal discussion of development and biodiversity themes.

·    Transition into planning and networks content.

11:45-12:30 | Session 2: Planning greener networks

·    Explore how new infrastructure, reservoirs and major projects can embed greener approaches.

·    Discuss how to reduce reliance on grey infrastructure where blue-green alternatives are viable.

·    Clarify the role of developers, water companies and planners in delivery.

12:30-13:15 | Lunch

·    Networking and informal discussion.

·    Opportunity to connect planning, development and infrastructure perspectives.

·    Reset ahead of the public realm and delivery sessions.

13:15-14:00 | Session 3: Transport, councils and public realm

·    Identify opportunities in rail, streets, town infrastructure and public spaces.

·    Discuss the role of local councils in resilience and green infrastructure delivery.

·    Explore practical examples such as rooftop rainwater capture and greener streets.

14:00-14:45 | Session 4: Practical delivery and collaboration

·    Examine coordination between utilities, councils and infrastructure works.

·    Consider how nature-based solutions can be embedded when roads and surfaces are reinstated.

·    Discuss pre-engagement with development to design water in rather than move it away.

14:45-15:15 | Panel discussion

·    Explore how the water sector, developers, councils and infrastructure owners can work together.

·    Identify barriers in planning, funding, ownership and long-term maintenance.

·    Agree practical changes that would improve implementation at scale.

15:15-15:30 | Closing remarks

·    Summarise key takeaways from the day.

·    Capture immediate follow-up actions and areas for further work.

·    Set out next steps for sector engagement on green and blue water networks.