Gloucestershire has introduced an innovative map designed to identify opportunities for enhancing nature across the county. This initiative forms a cornerstone of the county’s Nature Recovery Strategy, aiming to guide planners, developers, farmers, community groups, and residents toward fostering biodiversity alongside responsible development.
The map highlights priority areas where conservation efforts can actively support habitats and wildlife. It also suggests specific actions tailored to each location, making it easier to integrate nature-friendly measures into planning and land use decisions.
During an environment scrutiny meeting at Gloucestershire County Council, cabinet member Martin Horwood (LD), responsible for Nature, Climate, and Waste Reduction, shared a practical example from his division of Leckhampton and Warden Hill. He explained how the map is influencing a housing development project on formerly agricultural land off Shurdington Road.
“The 350 new homes under construction have affected local biodiversity, but thanks to the map, we are identifying nearby enhancements to offset this impact,” Horwood said. He emphasized how the development protects a significant blue corridor—a wetland and stream vital for wildlife—and has improved public access to these natural features.
Horwood added, “This map equips developers with a clear starting point, encouraging them to assess what environmental improvements can be made on each site.”
The parish council has capitalized on developer contributions to purchase Lott Meadow adjacent to the site. Although currently only marked by a single veteran oak on the map, the area holds substantial potential. Proposed measures include replanting traditional orchards, expanding wetland and woodland habitats, and implementing natural flood management to safeguard nearby homes—all supported by specific plans to protect rare bat species in the area.
“The tool challenges the outdated notion that development and nature are mutually exclusive,” Horwood explained. “Together, they can coexist, especially within urban settings.”
Council officers also confirmed that this local nature recovery strategy will play a crucial role in evaluating all large-scale development proposals moving forward.
The map is slated for public release next month, promising a new era of environmentally integrated planning in Gloucestershire.