Lead Member: Councillor David Walker - Portfolio Holder for Planning

Lead Officer: Matt Farmer - Public Health, Biodiversity and Emergency Planning Manager

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

a.     Noted the work of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) Steering Group and stakeholders in supporting co-ordinated biodiversity action, to enable nature recovery across Shropshire.

b.     Approved the LNRS Strategy (subject to parallel approval by Telford and Wrekin Council) and delegated to the Service Director for Strategy & Change, the authority to make minor amendments to the Strategy, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning, prior to publication and notification to the Secretary of State as required.

The Deputy Portfolio Holder for Planning presented the strategy which has been developed over approximately two years with extensive partnership working, including landowners, farming organisations, environmental bodies, local authorities, town and parish councils, and statutory agencies.

Cabinet was advised that the development costs were fully funded by DEFRA, with additional transition funding provided, and that future delivery funding is expected through national grant mechanisms.

Members discussed consultation coverage, engagement with landowners and farmers, long?term funding certainty, and the importance of ensuring the strategy supports viable farming and rural communities.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

a.     Noted the work of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) Steering Group and stakeholders in supporting co-ordinated biodiversity action, to enable nature recovery across Shropshire.

b.     Approved the LNRS Strategy (subject to parallel approval by Telford and Wrekin Council) and delegated to the Service Director for Strategy & Change, the authority to make minor amendments to the Strategy, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning, prior to publication and notification to the Secretary of State as required.