Have your say on blueprint for protecting biodiversity in North Northamptonshire

Climate

28 October 2024

Climate change image of hand holding a green globe

People are being asked to have their say on a blueprint for how biodiversity can be restored and enhanced across the North Northamptonshire area.

The draft North Northamptonshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) has a focus on protecting and restoring key habitats and priority native species.

The draft strategy links green spaces to improve wildlife movement and strengthen the area’s resilience to climate change.

The delivery of the LNRS will rely on collaboration between local authorities, environmental organisations, landowners and the community. The draft strategy provides a framework for guiding conservation efforts to create a thriving, sustainable landscape which would benefit everyone.

The Council has long recognised that the success of our natural environment is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of our communities.

Protecting and enhancing biodiversity is not just an environmental imperative but a social and economic one as well. In alignment with this vision, we have committed significant resources and effort to ensuring that our Local Nature Recovery Strategy is robust, evidence-based, and responds to local needs.
Cllr Harriet Pentland, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Climate and the Green Environment

This strategy is part of a broader national effort driven by the UK Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan and the Environment Act 2021, which mandates the creation of LNRSs across the country.

Under the local LNRS, North Northamptonshire is divided into three landscape areas, which are based on the Natural England’s defined ‘National Character Areas’ but have then been informed by local understanding and geography.

Rockingham Forest - A historic area of ancient woodland, rolling farmland, and villages. Once a royal hunting ground, it is rich in wildlife and biodiversity. Here the focus is on restoring ancient woodlands and supporting species like the Red-shanked Carder Bee and Hazel Dormouse.

Nene Valley - Following the River Nene, this area has wide floodplains, wetlands, and historic towns. It is known for its scenic views and diverse birdlife. Here the strategy prioritises protecting internationally important wetlands and managing recreational pressures on bird populations.

Ise Valley - A rural valley shaped by the River Ise, with gentle hills, farmland, and a network of settlements. It is a key wildlife corridor with scenic walking routes. Here, efforts are to conserve wetlands and implement species-specific practical actions for Water Vole and birds such as the Curlew.

The goal of this strategy is to create a thriving, sustainable landscape where nature flourishes, ecosystems are resilient and local communities benefit from a healthier environment.

We have some wonderful natural areas here in North Northamptonshire each with their distinct character and it’s essential that every effort is made to conserve and enhance them.

I would encourage as many people as possible to have their say on the strategy to make sure that we’ve got everything right and we have stable foundations to move forward on a very important piece of work.
Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council

People can have their say via the online survey.