Produced in conjunction with a wide range of organisations*, the draft strategy maps the most valuable existing habitat for nature, setting out proposals for creating, restoring and enhancing habitats, and suggests priorities and targets for nature's recovery.
The public consultation is open until Monday, 23 June.
Among a broad range of suggested priorities and actions, the draft strategy includes proposals that could:
- shape how future funding for farming and land management is used
- help local planning authorities to understand locations important for conserving and restoring biodiversity
- identify the highest priority areas for habitat creation and connectivity
- provide guidance on actions on farmland and woodland to achieve nature recovery and move towards more sustainable farming practices
- help guide local communities with funding applications for nature recovery projects
- suggest potential measures for embedding nature into urban infrastructure, such as stormwater management.
In 2021, the Environment Act required local areas to produce Local Nature Recovery Strategies. The Government designated Hampshire County Council as the Responsible Authority for delivering the strategy for the whole of Hampshire, including the areas covered by Southampton and Portsmouth City Councils, as well as the New Forest and South Downs National Parks (that are within Hampshire).
The draft Strategy has been produced following comprehensive engagement with key stakeholders and local communities across Hampshire to understand what was important to them. An online survey was also available to gauge early thoughts from the public.
The final version of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Hampshire is expected to be published by the end of this year.
More information about the approach being taken to nature recovery in Hampshire is available of the County Council’s website.
*Supporting authorities include the local planning authorities of Portsmouth and Southampton City Councils, Hampshire’s district and borough councils, the New Forest and South Downs National Parks, as well as Natural England.