Rich in wildlife and biodiversity

Opportunities

To understand how Central Bedfordshire could support wider UK plans to roll out a Nature Recovery Network, which will provide an additional 500,000 hectares of wildlife habitat aiding.

To explore the potential for the creation of a National Park in Central Bedfordshire, and how this could support wider aspirations for the Nature Recovery Network. The it has been suggested that the Chilterns AONB become England’s next National Park.

To maximise Central Bedfordshire’s existing assets; including the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the habitat networks of the Greensand Ridge Nature Improvement Area, and regeneration projects at the Forest of Marston Vale.

Challenges

The demand for new housing in Central Bedfordshire will continue to place pressure on the environment. The location of new development in Central Bedfordshire will require careful consideration.

In protecting wildlife and biodiversity, there is a need to look beyond traditional political timescales or budget periods. This requires a commitment to long-term co-operation between stakeholders in Central Bedfordshire.

A lower percentage of Central Bedfordshire is covered by ecological designation than the UK average. In addition, Central Bedfordshire’s agricultural sector means the habitats of many birds, bats, and small mammals continue to be under pressure by farming.

Trends

A plan for the environment

The Government’s 25-year Environment Plan recognises that leveraging nature and enhancing the beauty of our landscapes is crucially important. In doing so, the government has committed to creating or restoring 500,000 hectares of wildlife rich habitat outside of the existing protected sites network.

Connecting with nature

A growing body of evidence suggests that increased connection with nature can improve our mental and physical well-being. In one study, people to took time in their days to spend time in nature (for example, through feeding birds or planting flowers for bees) resulted in 30% more people reporting “excellent” levels of general health.

Restoring the environment

In order to help leave the environment in a better condition for the next generation, the 25-year plan also recognises the need to restore areas of existing wetland, woodland, grassland and coastal habitat to full utility. The government has promised to restore 75% of the UK’s 1 million hectares of protected sites to favourable conditions for wildlife during the plan period. In combination, it is hoped that habitat restoration and creation will provide greater opportunities for wildlife to flourish, and to promote the wider economic and social benefits that healthy habitats can offer.