ACTION is being taken to help wildlife thrive across the city.
Worcester City Council is directly responsible for over 260 acres of green space, including 24 conservation sites.
And to stop the decline of important wildlife species in these areas, the city council has drafted a biodiversity strategy, which has been supported by councillors.
The strategy sets out a plan for the next five years to stop biodiversity loss and boost wildlife habitats.
Key goals include measurable improvements in tree canopy cover, the creation of wildlife corridors, and a five per cent net gain in biodiversity across council-managed land by 2030.
The strategy also aims to increase the opportunities for residents and visitors to the city to connect with nature, recognising the mental and physical health benefits that brings.
The city council’s environment spokesperson Coun Karen Lewing said: “The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, and every city has a responsibility to help its wildlife recover.
“Worcester is no exception, and the council have made a commitment to help address this biodiversity crisis – both on their own land, through their policies, and by working with local residents and community groups to actively protect and enhance nature.
“The strategy highlights the importance of protecting and enhancing green spaces such as parks, nature reserves, allotments, and cemeteries, many of which have already achieved Green Flag status.
“It will also encourage the creation of new habitats across the city, making sure that verges, hedgerows and even buildings are managed for nature.
“Despite the scale of environmental challenges we face, simple actions can support nature’s recovery and combat its destruction, and the council will take immediate, ambitious and continued action to transform green spaces across the city into thriving natural habitats.”
There will now be a six-week public consultation on the biodiversity strategy to give Worcester residents the chance to comment on how they would like to see the council take action to improve biodiversity across the city.
Following this consultation, a final strategy will be developed.
