Green light for bold strategy to restore nature and biodiversity in Bedfordshire
A bold new strategy to help nature and biodiversity has been approved by leaders of Bedford, Luton and Central Bedfordshire councils.
The Bedfordshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) sets out actions to reverse the decline in wildlife by restoring, expanding and creating new habitats, including heathland, grassland and woodland.
The strategy also identifies some of Bedfordshire’s most threatened species, including the hazel dormouse, water vole and turtle dove.
It will inform decisions regarding land use, development, farming, and investment to guide actions across these areas that contribute meaningfully to nature recovery.
Central Bedfordshire Council led development of the strategy, working closely with Bedford Borough Council, Luton Borough Council, Natural England and the Bedfordshire Local Nature Partnership.
Councillor Adam Zerny, leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “This strategy sets out the priorities to restore nature in Bedfordshire, which in turn protects our environment for residents.
“It has been created thanks to a combined effort from a wide range of groups, including farmers, conservation organisations and of course, the public.
“Our Nature Recovery Plan is a core part of how we will plan, design, and manage growth across our area. By embedding nature recovery into the three councils’ strategies, we’re making sure we are ready to boost local ecosystems, support biodiversity, and create resilient communities for the long term.
“Humans exist in and depend on ‘nature’; we are not living separately from the natural world. This plan ensures nature remains key to our future health and wellbeing, which is vital given the change and growth planned for the county.”
Councillor Javed Hussain, deputy leader and executive member for highways and sustainable transport, Luton Borough Council, added: “The Local Nature Recovery Strategy provides a strong framework for protecting and enhancing nature alongside growth. For Luton, it supports our ambition to build a greener, healthier town, where improved biodiversity goes hand in hand with sustainable transport, cleaner air and better wellbeing for our residents.”
Councillor Nicola Gribble, portfolio holder for environment, Bedford Borough Council, said: “This strategy is an important step in safeguarding Bedfordshire’s natural environment for future generations. By working together across council boundaries and with our partners, we can reverse wildlife decline, strengthen local ecosystems and ensure nature plays a central role in how our places grow and develop.”