How Suffolk's Nature Recovery Strategy hopes to restore and protect local landscapes

Why it matters: Suffolk's strategy is one of 48 across the country aimed at addressing wildlife decline and creating a national 'nature network' to help restore and enhance biodiversity.

The details: Suffolk County Council launched the consultation on Wednesday 16 April, inviting residents, landowners, land managers, farmers, businesses and the wider community to share their views on the draft strategy.

The plan has been developed in coordination with Norfolk through the Norfolk and Suffolk Nature Recovery Partnership, with both counties working to connect and expand existing wildlife-important areas across the landscape.

By the numbers: Over 1,500 Suffolk residents shared their thoughts on helping nature recover during initial consultations last summer, which helped inform the draft strategy.

What they're saying: "Suffolk has pockets of diverse nature and unique landscapes, and this strategy will help link together those isolated areas that need improving and restoring," said Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality.

"It will support landowners, land managers and farmers to work together for the benefit of the county's natural environment."

The bigger picture: The strategy aims to deliver multiple benefits beyond wildlife conservation, including:

• Mitigating risks to homes and businesses from inland flooding
• Creating new green spaces to improve health and wellbeing
• Supporting farmers to bring new funding into the rural economy
• Generating employment and training opportunities

What's next: The consultation will remain open until 11 June 2025. Residents can provide feedback on the overall strategy and respond to maps showing specific local areas where conservation measures could be implemented.

The bottom line: Those wishing to participate can visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/consultations to review the draft strategy and submit their feedback.