Have your say on Wirral’s Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of living things in nature, including animals, insects, their habitats, and the ecosystems they form.

Having diverse and healthy biodiversity is crucial because it performs important functions such as purifying the air and water, aiding in food pollination, storing carbon emissions, and offering natural flood protection.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is an approach used in planning and land management that aims to enhance the natural environment. It ensures that after new developments or land changes, the environment is left in a better condition than before.

Starting from November 2023, most planning permissions granted in England will be required, with a few exceptions, to achieve a minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain as mandated by the Environment Act 2021.

To learn more about Biodiversity Net Gain, you can watch the informative video provided by Natural England.

Wirral is a place with diverse natural surroundings, including coasts, heaths, woodlands, and significant environmental sites.

The council recognises the importance of biodiversity and has declared an environment and climate emergency.

They aim to double the tree canopy cover, improve open spaces, and create a resilient borough. To learn more about their efforts to support pollinators and trees, you can visit the council's website.

The council is committed to protecting and enhancing biodiversity and plans to include Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in the Wirral Local Plan 2021-2037, which will apply to all developments from November 2023.

They are developing a Biodiversity and Net Gain Strategy and value the opinions of residents. By participating in a survey, residents can share their understanding of biodiversity, its impact on Wirral and their community, their priorities regarding biodiversity, any ongoing projects they are involved in, and their willingness to support biodiversity protection.

Additionally, you can provide comments and suggestions on the ideas board or use the interactive map to identify areas that require priority for protection and action. The feedback received will help shape the Biodiversity and Net Gain Strategy.