Natural England appoints new chairs for two committees

Natural England has appointed new chairs for two of its committees: the National Nature Reserves (NNR) steering group; and the Natural England Science Advisory Committee (NESAC).

Natural England board member, Kim Shillinglaw (pictured top left), and director of Holkham NNR in Norfolk, Jake Fiennes (bottom left), will chair the 12-member NNR, while Natural England board members, Clare Fitzsimmons (bottom right) and Lynn Dicks (top right), will chair NESAC.

The appointments follow the departure of the previous chair of both committees, long-standing board member. Andy Clements, whose term ended last month.

Natural England describes the current 221 NNRs as “the most important places for nature, including some of the best examples of wildlife and geology.” They are owned and/or managed by Natural England or by Approved Bodies such as environmental organisations and private businesses.

NESAC provides “independent advice, challenge and review to Natural England’s Science and Evidence functions and works to strengthen its relationship with the wider scientific community.”