Our plan to conserve and enhance biodiversity
Local planning authorities in England are required to meet the strengthened Biodiversity Duty introduced by the Environment Act 2021. This means Cheltenham Borough Council must consider how it can conserve and enhance biodiversity, set clear objectives, and take action to achieve them.
We have reviewed the steps we can take to support nature across the borough and prepared our Biodiversity Report, which explains how we intend to fulfil these duties. Our actions include:
- Securing Biodiversity Net Gain in new development and strengthening ecological requirements in the planning process.
- Enhancing biodiversity on Council-managed land through reduced mowing, wildflower planting, tree planting and habitat improvements.
- Working with partners, volunteers and environmental organisations to support nature recovery.
- Aligning our work with the Gloucestershire Local Nature Recovery Strategy and preparing new planning guidance to embed nature recovery in future development.
The Biodiversity Report sets out these actions and our priorities for the years ahead.