Natural England Launch Local Nature Recovery Strategy

Natural England’s Chair Tony Juniper and CEO Marian Spain launched the new Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LRNS) last week with 5 pilot areas.

Five local authorities have been selected to run the pilot projects and will receive a share of £1 million of funding to set up LRNS. Chosen Local Authorities include Cornwall, Buckinghamshire, Greater Manchester, Northumberland and Cumbria.

LRNS will map the most valuable sites and habitats for wildlife in that area and identify where nature can be restored, for example, through creation of wetland and wildflower meadows. The aim is to link up habitats, restore nature and provide green space for communities.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said:

Coronavirus is shining a light on the importance of our natural world, and the positive impact nature can have on our health and well-being.

These first pilots will be a key part of our green recovery and help kick-start the creation of over a million acres of joined up habitats that people can enjoy across the country.

The LNRSs will underpin the Nature Recovery Network set out in the UK Government’s 25-Year Environment Plan.