Wiltshire Council 'stepping up' to drive nature recovery
They'll be working with local people to 'develop a tailored strategy' across Wiltshire and Swindon, thanks to benefiting from a share of £14 million from DEFRA
Last updated 20th Jun 2024
Wiltshire Council say they're leading the drive to help the recovery of nature across Wiltshire and Swindon.
They say they're 'stepping up' to take on new responsibilities, and is one of 48 local authorities benefiting from new Government cash.
A share of £14 million allocated by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will help them 'develop a tailored strategy' for the region.
Wiltshire Council will be responsible for preparing a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Swindon and Wiltshire, under section 105 of the Environment Act 2021.
Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, Cllr Nick Holder, said: “We’re delighted to not only be given this funding but also the responsibility to shape this important work for years to come.
“We will be seeking to collaborate with local partners to develop our strategy and look forward to working together on a common goal to protect and enhance the beautiful county we live in.
“Our Business Plan states that we want Wiltshire to be a place where we take responsibility for the environment, and this opportunity allows us to lead from the front on this vital work and to hopefully bring people along with us on the journey.”
Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said: “We depend on nature for everything and now nature really needs our help.
“Across the country, local nature recovery strategies will enhance wildlife habitats that reflect the wonderful tapestry of nature that exists on our isles.”
Natural England Chair Tony Juniper said: “Nature recovery must be locally led and delivered at scale if we are to create more, better, connected nature - rich habitats that enable wildlife to recover, move and thrive. Through these initiatives that support a growing national Nature Recovery Network, we can create natural landscapes which will capture carbon, mitigate extreme weather events and protect the health of people and wildlife.
“Natural England is proud to be supporting local authorities and their partners to develop Local Nature Recovery Strategies that meet the needs of local people and the landscapes in which they live.”
You can read more about the Government's Local Nature Recovery Strategy on the GOV.UK website.