Devon’s natural environment could be set for a major boost under a new county-wide plan.
The Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which aims to help wildlife recover and restore habitats across the county, was adopted by Cabinet this week.
It outlines where action is most needed to protect and rebuild nature, “from rivers and wetlands to woodlands, grasslands and coastal areas.”
Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, cabinet member for climate change and biodiversity, said: “Nature in Devon is under real pressure, but this strategy gives us a clear, practical way forward.
“It shows where effort will have the greatest impact and helps everyone, from farmers and landowners to public bodies and community groups, to pull in the same direction.
“This is about restoring nature in a way that also supports people, livelihoods and the places we care about.”
The strategy is designed to guide future investment and decision-making, rather than introduce new rules or restrictions on land use.
The Local Nature Partnership has been developing the strategy over a number of years alongside councils, national park authorities, Natural England and local wildlife specialists and has involved questionnaires, public consultation events and webinars.
The Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy will be published this Spring once it has been approved by all supporting authorities.
Restoring nature also achieves wider aims such as reducing flood risk, improving water quality, helping communities adapt to climate change and increasing access to nature, which all help our health and wellbeing.
It will be reviewed and updated within 10 years to reflect new evidence and progress on the ground.
