People across the Liverpool City Region are being asked to have
their say on a new strategy to restore habitats, protect species
and boost biodiversity.
The comprehensive Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) has been
created against a backdrop of declining biodiversity and a loss
of habitats across the UK which has seen many common species put
at risk.
Liverpool City Region has mirrored the national picture with a 5%
loss of all land habitats since the 1980s, including 10% of its
most biodiverse grasslands.
Since 1970, 36 priority species of plants and animals have not
been seen and could be considered locally extinct, with a further
34 species not seen since 1989.
The recovery strategy identifies and maps opportunities to
create, enhance and restore habitats with the biggest benefit for
nature and people.
A six-week public consultation and local habitat map has been
launched today (Friday 21 February) on the LNRS. It is the
final chance to correct any mistakes or add local areas that have
been missed.
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said:
“The Liverpool City Region is home to some of the most stunning
natural landscapes in the country – but in the past few decades,
we've seen a worrying decline in our habitats and
biodiversity.
“The Local Nature Recovery Strategy is about turning the tide,
identifying the best ways to restore and enhance habitats, and
ensuring that nature can thrive across our region.
“But we can't do it alone. I want as many local people as
possible to have their say in this consultation – because a
greener, more sustainable future is something we all have a stake
in.”
The Liverpool City Region contains four internationally
recognised wetlands, five European Special Protection Areas,
three National Nature Reserves, 18 Sites of Special Scientific
Interest, 384 Local Wildlife Sites and 29 Local Nature Reserves.
These areas are valued, providing easy access to nature and a
boost to health and well-being.
The LNRS is one of 48 nature recovery strategies across England
aimed at detailing the urgent action required to restore the
natural environment.
It is also designed to feed into the planning system which now
requires new developments to deliver a positive impact on
biodiversity.
Locations included in the LNRS should find it easier to attract
funding for nature recovery from a variety of sources, including
Biodiversity Net Gain, where habitat enhancements required by
planning authorities are carried out offsite from the
development.
Inclusion in the strategy does not affect how landowners manage
areas but identifies opportunities for nature. Land
managers can ask to have land added or removed from the map.
Last year the Combined Authority launched phase one of the public
consultation, which asked people why nature matters to them and
what they wanted to see included in the strategy.
Now people are being asked to comment on the draft strategy and
proposed maps identifying potential areas requiring nature
recovery.
For more information and to complete the consultation go to
www.lcrnaturerecoverystrategy.co.uk
the closing date is Sunday 6 April 2025.
