Forest of Dean District Council recognised nationally for nature recovery work

The award recognises councils that embed nature into the places we live and work, ensuring planning decisions deliver greener towns and cities, healthier communities, and space for wildlife to thrive. Forest of Dean District Council was one of only five authorities shortlisted nationally. 

Forest of Dean District Council was shortlisted for its ambitious plans to embed nature recovery into local policy and strategy. The Council is bidding to secure official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status and is exploring how to increase Biodiversity Net Gain through its Local Plan, to potentially double the national statutory minimum of 10%. 

The Council is also developing a new Nature and Climate Strategy, bringing together two areas that are often treated separately and building on its declarations of both a nature emergency and a climate emergency. 

The shortlist was developed by Nature 2030, supported by environmental experts from across the Wildlife Trust movement. 

Cllr Adrian Birch, Leader of Forest of Dean District Council, said: 

"Being shortlisted for this national award is a significant achievement and reflects the commitment and ambition that exists across the Forest of Dean to support nature recovery. 

"To be recognised alongside some of the country's larger and most established authorities demonstrates the strength of the work taking place across the Forest of Dean and the importance we place on nature recovery. 

"This recognition reflects the work of our councillors, officers, partners, local organisations and communities who are helping to protect and enhance our natural environment. 

"Nature recovery relies on partnership working and a shared commitment to creating healthier, more resilient places for both people and wildlife. We remain committed to building on this work and supporting a more nature-rich future for the Forest of Dean." 

The Council has made nature recovery a key part of its environmental ambitions, including work to develop a Nature and Climate Strategy, support biodiversity improvements and explore opportunities linked to UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. 

Cllr Jackie Fraser, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, said: 

"To be shortlisted in a national award is recognition of the positive work being delivered across the district. 

"We would like to congratulate the winner and thank everyone who has contributed towards nature recovery in the Forest of Dean, including local organisations, volunteers, partners and residents." 

The council says the shortlisting provides further encouragement to continue working with communities and partners to protect and enhance the district's natural environment for future generations.

Further information on the Council’s work to tackle the Nature and Climate Emergency can be found here: https://fdean.gov.uk/environment/climate-action/