County's wildlife to 'flourish' under nature plan

New habitats for Lancashire's most threatened species will be built under a plan which aims to help nature restore and recover.

Almost 1,000 residents and conversation groups have had an input into Lancashire County Council's Local Nature Recovery Strategy, along with landowners and busineses.

Species at risk include hen harriers, red squirrels, Atlantic salmon and several rare bees, moths and butterflies.

Councillor Joshua Roberts said local wildlife would "flourish" under the strategy, which sets out plans to restore habitats, halt species decline and make the environment more resilient.

The strategy covers the wider county, including Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen.

It introduces a Local Habitat Map, identifying the areas most important for nature and highlighting where recovery, enhancement and new habitat creation would be most effective.

It is designed to help guide planners, developers, environmental organisations and community groups in targeting funding and conservation work.

The strategy was launched at Brockholes Nature Reserve in Samlesbury.

Roberts, the county council's cabinet member for Rural Affairs, Environment and Communities, said the strategy was the result of more than two years of partnership work.

"Already, the iconic hen harrier, red squirrels, Atlantic salmon, rare bees, moths and butterflies are being helped to thrive," he said.

"Lancashire has such beautiful countryside and habitats, and this will allow them and local wildlife to flourish."

Lucy Abram, Natural England's deputy director for Cheshire to Lancashire, said the strategy was a "vital tool" in restoring nature across England and praised the county's collaborative approach.

Dr Rachael Antwis, Director of Nature Recovery at the Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Wildlife Trust, said the plan would help embed nature "into the fabric" of the county, and provide a strong foundation for future work.

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