A “call to action” has been launched in a bid to protect Leicestershire’s nature from climate change. Members of the public, including farmers, are being urged to have their say on new proposals which aim to save the countryside.
The plan, known as Local Nature Recovery Strategy, (LNRS), has been developed by Leicestershire County Council and other organisations and aims to improve natural habitats and biodiversity. It is currently only a draft at the moment and the council is urging residents, farmers, landowners and other interested groups to have their say and shape what protections could be put in place.
Local councils, environmental groups, farmers, landowners and members of the public have already contributed to the strategy, which aims to protect habitats such as in woodlands, wetlands, and urban green spaces. Now, the LNRS wants ideas for ways of conserving existing or creating new habitats, dealing with climate change and protecting species which are at risk.
READ MORE: MP calls for urgent meeting over ‘destructive’ Leicestershire flooding
Councillor Blake Pain, Leicestershire County Council’s cabinet member for the environment and the green agenda, said: “The LNRS is an extremely important project which will help nature and people thrive across Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland. It’s a call to action for everyone.
“Nature is struggling and we need to step up to help it bounce back. By working together, we can protect our landscapes and wildlife and create a more sustainable future for everyone. It’s a long-term project, but the LNRS gives us a solid starting point, with the goal of boosting biodiversity, improving habitats and creating a resilient landscape that works for wildlife, people, and livelihoods. Balancing how we use land is key—it doesn’t have to be nature or development.
“We can plan smarter to fit in homes, food, energy, and wildlife. In short, it’s about thinking big, working together and finding smarter ways to let nature and people thrive side by side.”
Councillor Geoff Whittle, Leicester City Council’s assistant city mayor for environment and transport, added: “Leicester has a long track record of protecting and prioritising nature and this new strategy will set an important new policy framework which looks at assets and opportunities across the city boundary. I would encourage everyone who cares about our environment to take part in this consultation to help us build on our biodiversity and nature conservation work for the benefit of future generations.”
The consultation is now open to all and runs until Friday, February 28. More information and how to take part can be found on the county council’s website.
We are now bringing you the latest updates on WhatsApp first