Derbyshire Cabinet approves first biodiversity report 

Derbyshire County Council has approved its first biodiversity report, setting out steps aimed at protecting wildlife and improving natural habitats across the county. 

The report was agreed at a Cabinet meeting on Thursday 12 March and outlines work already carried out, along with plans for the coming years to help nature thrive while benefiting local communities. 

Among the actions included are leading the preparation of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Derbyshire, improving conservation at countryside sites, and supporting tree-planting schemes such as the Million Trees project and Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest. The council has also introduced measures to tackle invasive species and plant diseases, including ash dieback, and says biodiversity will be given greater consideration when managing land around council buildings, roadside verges and other council-owned land. 

Education is also a focus, with more opportunities planned for children and adults to learn about nature through outdoor education centres at Lea Green and Whitehall, as well as through the Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service. Schools are also being encouraged to take part in national programmes such as the National Education Nature Park. 

Councillor Carol Wood, Cabinet Member for Net Zero and Environment, said: 

“Derbyshire is a beautiful area, with a variety of landscapes and wildlife to be proud of. It’s important that we protect it now and in the future. 

“We’re committed to reforming services in Derbyshire and the actions set out in this report will form a key part of our work to protect and improve our environment and public spaces – backing our commitment to ensuring our communities are great places to live and work.” 

The report also sets out further actions the council plans to take over the coming years to conserve and enhance biodiversity across Derbyshire.