A public consultation is now open for the people of Essex to have their say on the county’s natural habitats, with residents being encouraged to give their views on the draft Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS).

Essex County Council and the Essex Local Nature Partnership (LNP) are coordinating the Essex LNRS, which aims to tackle the biodiversity crisis and develop a route to ensure nature’s recovery. You can view the proposed plan and share your feedback here.

Essex currently has 14% green infrastructure and the intention is for the Essex LNRS to provide a framework to help partners increase this to 25% by 2030, with an ambition of 30%. The strategy will also support farmers and landowners to reach the target of 50% of farms using sustainable farming practices, and look to improve the connectivity of wildlife habitats.

The Essex LNRS, which includes Southend and Thurrock, is now out for consultation, ensuring residents can have their say on priorities and action plans to improve the county’s natural environment.

Dr Simon Lyster, chair of the Essex LNP, explains: “Like many areas across the UK, we have witnessed a significant loss of plants, animals and fungi in Essex alongside a considerable decrease in the health of our environment.

“We cannot let this continue. We must turn the tide for the long-term health of our county, its environment, biodiversity and wildlife. While we draw up a strategy for change, we hope Essex residents will share their views and their valuable insight with us.”

Cllr Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Climate Czar, added: “The Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy is a hugely significant part of our county’s plans to recreate and restore our natural landscape in a way that gives the best opportunity for wildlife to thrive.

“Sharing the draft strategy for public consultation is an important step, allowing everyone to play their part in improving our environment, to help improve both their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of the natural world.”

Everyone’s voice matters, so click here to share your views on the Essex LNRS now. You can also find more information around the Essex LNRS and keep up to date with the latest news by signing up to the Essex Local Nature Partnership newsletter.