The Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) aims to halt biodiversity loss and boost wildlife across Cheshire and Warrington, with Cheshire becoming one of the most species-depleted counties in England.
The plan, developed through collaboration between local authorities, landowners, and businesses, sets out practical steps to improve habitats and make nature more resilient for the future.
Councillor Tony Higgins, Warrington Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, sustainability and the environment, said: “Our natural world is precious, and we all have a responsibility to protect it.
“The launch of the first Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Cheshire and Warrington provides a new blueprint to help wildlife thrive, improve our ecological network, and target investment in nature to help us adapt to climate change and improve the places we live, work and play.
Cheshire West and Chester Council led the creation of the strategy, working with Cheshire East Council, Warrington Borough Council, the Peak District National Park, Natural England, the Forestry Commission, and the Environment Agency.
The strategy proposes a range of actions, including to create or restore 5,000 km of hedgerows, developing a Weaver-Gowy water and wildlife scheme, and restoring our species-rich grasslands in urban and rural areas.
It also includes the formation of a ‘Future Farmer Group’ to trial, showcase and promote ways that make farming more profitable, whilst boosting wildlife and providing broader benefits to the economy and wider society.
Mary Creagh, Nature Minister, said: “I welcome this strategy as an opportunity to create bigger, better and more joined up areas for nature in Cheshire, benefitting local communities, alleviating flooding, making landscapes more climate resilient and improving health and wellbeing.
“This is an important step in the effort to recover nature and support prosperity in the county for the future.”
Natural England has also endorsed the plan, calling it a “major step” in reversing nature’s decline.
The full strategy can be viewed online at cheshirelnp.co.uk/local-nature-recovery-strategy.
Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the project can find out more at cheshirelnp.org.uk.