Landmark nature recovery plan published for Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin
The Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin is published today
Shropshire Council, working with Telford & Wrekin Council and Natural England, has today published the Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) – a shared plan to restore nature, boost biodiversity and strengthen the landscapes local communities and wildlife depend on.
The strategy has been shaped by extensive local engagement, attracting a record number of almost 4,000 responses from residents, landowners, conservation groups, town and parish councils, businesses and partners.
Councillor David Walker, Shropshire Council Cabinet member with responsibility for planning, said:-
“Nature underpins everyday life, from clean air and water to the green spaces that support our health and wellbeing, yet many species and habitats across Shropshire are still in decline.
“This strategy sets out a shared, locally‑led approach to turning that around. It’s about bringing councils, landowners, organisations and communities together to deliver real, practical improvements for nature. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed and the whole team who have pulled together such an excellent piece of work. The focus now is on turning this ambition into action on the ground.”
The LNRS is practical and non‑regulatory and does not introduce new restrictions or require land‑use change. Instead, it provides a shared framework to help partners work together to support landowners, guide developers, inform future funding decisions and help communities enhance local green spaces.
The strategy brings together a Statement of Biodiversity Priorities and a Local Habitat and Opportunity Map, setting out clear priorities for nature recovery and highlighting where targeted action will deliver the greatest benefits.
Carolyn Healy, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet member with responsibility for neighbourhoods, planning and sustainability, added:-
“This strategy reflects two years of strong partnership working. By bringing public, private and voluntary sectors together, we have a shared direction for tackling biodiversity loss and building healthier, better‑connected habitats for wildlife and people.”
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin is one of 48 Local Nature Recovery Strategy areas in England, created under the Environment Act 2021. Now finalised and submitted to Defra, the LNRS will guide nature recovery work across the area in the years ahead.
The full strategy is available to view here.
