Northamptonshire nature recovery plan backs tree planting and wetland restoration

Further tree planting, wetland restoration and drainage works could be carried out in parts of Northamptonshire under a new strategy designed to “protect nature for generations to come”.

West Northamptonshire Council has approved its first Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), which is required by the Environment Act 2021 and is the responsibility of all authorities.

Northamptonshire wildlife habitats under pressure

The report said the area was one of England’s “most naturally depleted areas”, with wildlife habitats that were “often small, in poor condition and isolated from each other”.

The council hopes to work with a range of partners to improve the landscape, which is described as being under “unprecedented pressure”, with some species declining.

A council spokesperson said: “A healthy natural environment is essential to tackling climate change and wider environmental challenges.

“Habitat and species diversity provide essentials such as clean and abundant water, food, clean air, productive soil, flood protection, shade and cooling, as well as benefits such as space for recreation, exercise and health.”

Plan aims to protect nature for future generations

Nigel Stansfield, Reform UK’s cabinet member for environment, recycling and waste, said: “Our aim is to create cleaner, greener spaces that protect nature, meet the needs of local communities and provide opportunities to connect with nature for generations to come.”

He said it was important to have an actionable strategy that showed “how we intend to protect nature for generations to come”.

Mr Stansfield added that he hoped the strategy would encourage organisations, landowners and local residents to take action “to ensure our natural environment becomes more robust and resilient, delivering the benefits we take for granted”.

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