The Herefordshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) will provide a framework for coordinated action to help nature recover across the county – identifying where improvements to habitats could deliver the greatest benefits for wildlife, the environment and local communities.

The strategy includes a Local Habitat Map, showing important existing areas for biodiversity as well as locations where action could create or improve habitats for nature.

It also sets out 37 priorities and 100 measures and supporting actions, covering some of the habitats and species most important to Herefordshire – from rivers, wetlands, woodlands and traditional orchards to hedgerows, grasslands, farmland and nature-rich urban areas.

Herefordshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, said: 

“Herefordshire is incredibly fortunate to have such a rich and varied natural environment, from our rivers, woodlands and orchards to our meadows, hedgerows and uplands.

“But nature is under pressure, and we need to make sure we are doing everything we can to help it recover. This strategy gives us a clear picture of where action can make the biggest difference and, importantly, brings people and organisations together around a shared ambition for nature.

“This is not about telling landowners what they must do, or putting barriers in the way of development. It is a high-level framework to help guide and support nature recovery and make the most of opportunities to improve our environment.

“I’d encourage residents, landowners, farmers, community groups and organisations across the county to explore the strategy and the interactive map and see what it could mean for nature in their part of Herefordshire.”

The strategy has been developed by Herefordshire Council with local and national partners, drawing on local knowledge, environmental data, public engagement and a formal consultation.

More than 600 comments were received during the seven-week formal consultation earlier this year, from members of the public, landowners, national and local organisations, parish councils and statutory bodies.

Saul Herbert, CEO of Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, said;

“This clear, shared strategy for nature recovery in the county is a landmark moment for the wildlife and landscapes of Herefordshire. The strategy has been shaped by the shared aims of numerous organisations and local people and provides a strong platform for us to work together for the future of our exceptional and distinctive natural environment. I hope that people will look at the options, input information and give their views. The strategy has emerged from a great collaboration of voluntary groups and statutory partners and it’s important that we build on this to create a local movement that enables everyone to make a difference, restoring and protecting nature in Herefordshire"

The LNRS identifies a range of opportunities to improve nature while also delivering wider benefits for people, including improved water and air quality, natural flood management, healthier soils, climate resilience, opportunities for recreation and wellbeing, and support for nature-friendly farming.

The strategy is entirely voluntary and is intended as a high-level framework for nature recovery. It is not a compulsory action plan, a barrier to development or a source of dedicated funding.

Now that the strategy is published, the Council will work with partners to turn it into action. This will include identifying and supporting priority projects, making sure the strategy informs council decisions, and reporting on progress.

Residents and organisations can explore the full Herefordshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy, including the interactive Local Habitat Map, on the council’s website.

You can read Herefordshire Council’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy on the Council's website.  

For more information, or to share a nature recovery project or idea, contact the Nature Recovery Team at NatureRecovery@herefordshire.gov.uk