Council sets out plans to 'help wildlife thrive'

A city council has set out a five-year biodiversity strategy to help protect the area's wildlife and green spaces.

Worcester City Council said it wants "to help wildlife thrive across the city" and drafted plans in a bid to stop the decline of important species and boost animal habitats.

Its goals include increasing tree canopy cover, the creation of wildlife corridors and a 5% boost to biodiversity across council-managed land by 2030.

The council's environment committee will hold a six-week public consultation to give residents the chance to suggest actions they would like to see taken.

The plans also aim to increase the opportunities for residents and visitors to the city to connect with nature, recognising the mental and physical health benefits that it brings.

"The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, and every city has a responsibility to help its wildlife recover," said Karen Lewing, the vice-chair of the environment committee.

"Worcester is no exception and the council have made a commitment to help address this biodiversity crisis."

The council said it was responsible for more than 260 acres of green space, including 24 conservation sites.

"Despite the scale of environmental challenges we face, simple actions can support nature's recovery and combat its destruction," she said.

A final strategy will be developed after the consultation, which will include specific short-term objectives.

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