Plans to boost biodiversity in Northumberland

03 Nov 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Proposals are to be discussed for a comprehensive plan to protect and enhance biodiversity in Northumberland. 

As part of the County Council’s Environment Policy Statement, Cabinet Members will discuss the development of a Council-wide biodiversity plan which will include innovative strategies and projects to enrich the diverse range of species, habitats, and ecosystems in the county, contribute to Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and explore sustainable land management as well as conservation and adaptation. 

The plan will strengthen the Council’s environmental commitment which has already pledged to invest in parks and open spaces, nature trails, increase litter picking along main roads, reduce fly tipping and improve recycling. 

Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Change said: “The Council is already making huge strides in protecting the environment and this biodiversity plan will further strengthen our commitment to this. 

“Increasing biodiversity will not only benefit the environment but will ensure a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable future for our communities. 

“I look forward to seeing this plan come into fruition.” 

Local authorities are legally obliged to develop a plan to enhance biodiversity, under the Environment Act 2021 by January 2024.  

An Environmental Policy Statement has already been developed by the Council highlighting the key role that nature recovery can play in helping to tackle climate change.  

The Council is also taking the lead in in the region’s response to nature recovery and will act as the accountable body for the participation of the English part of the Borderlands area in the Government’s Local Investment in Natural Capital (LINC) programme.