Hampshire County Council, together with partners, has today (8 December) launched the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) for Hampshire, a shared plan to restore nature, protect precious habitats, and create more opportunities for people to connect with the outdoors.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-Kings, said: “We have an exceptional natural environment here in Hampshire but, like the rest of the UK, biodiversity has declined significantly over the last 50 years. This new strategy brings together expertise from organisations and authorities across the region and sets out practical steps for how Hampshire can reverse this decline to ensure a minimum of 30% land and sea is secured for biodiversity by 2030.
“I would like to thank all the partner organisations involved for their dedication, insight and knowledge in shaping this comprehensive strategy, one that reflects the views of our communities, landowners, businesses and environmental groups.
“As part of our Hampshire Pledge, we set out our commitment to look after and enhance Hampshire’s rich and diverse natural environment, and ensure the countryside is available for everyone to explore and enjoy. Our ask of our communities is to engage with conservation where possible, to consider the impact of our actions on climate change and to join us in taking care of our surroundings. Everyone can play their part, from nature-friendly choices at home, or simply enjoying the county’s beautiful landscapes. Every action, big or small, helps to build a greener Hampshire.
“To achieve these shared goals, everyone needs to keep playing their part in nature recovery and this strategy sets out how, together, we can protect and enhance our natural environment. It has been designed to help guide land use choices, inform planning decisions, and encourage investment in nature-based solutions to wider environmental challenges such as climate change and flooding. Together, we can use the Local Nature Recovery Strategy as a springboard for action - restoring habitats, reversing wildlife decline, and reconnecting Hampshire’s natural environment to ensure a positive legacy for future generations.”
Graham Horton, Deputy Director for Natural England’s Thames Solent team, said: "Natural England warmly welcomes the launch of Hampshire’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy. This ambitious plan is a vital step towards protecting and enhancing the county’s diverse and special natural environment. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed, and we encourage communities, landowners, and partners to play their part. The time for action is now - together we can deliver recover nature across Hampshire."
The full strategy is available to read here: https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/nature-recovery-hampshire/hampshire-strategy
To find out more about the Hampshire Pledge commitment to champion the Hampshire environment, visit:
www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/hampshire-pledge