The report, which was approved by Cabinet Members at a meeting today (Thursday 12 March), details work we carried out in a number of key areas to improve biodiversity including:
- leading the preparation of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Derbyshire
- enhancing the nature conservation status of our countryside sites
- tree-planting initiatives such as Million Trees and Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest
- measures to prevent the spread of invasive species and plant disease such as ash dieback disease
- making biodiversity a key consideration when maintaining land around council buildings
- providing more opportunities for children and adults to learn about biodiversity at Lea Green and Whitehall outdoor education centres and through our Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service.
- promoting external support programmes such as the National Education Nature Park to schools
- new policies and procedures to conserve and enhance biodiversity on roadside verges and other council property.
The report also sets out actions we are planning to take over the coming years to improve biodiversity.
Our Cabinet Member for Net Zero and Environment Councillor Carol Wood said:
“Derbyshire is a beautiful area, with a variety of landscapes and wildlife to be proud of. It’s important that we protect it now and in the future.
“We’re committed to reforming services in Derbyshire and the actions set out in this report will form a key part of our work to protect and improve our environment and public spaces – backing our commitment to ensuring our communities are great places to live and work.”