Key actions for 2023 / 2024

  1. To comply with national directives to imbed biodiversity net gain into the planning system, scheduled to commence in November 2023
  2. Identify council owned sites which are appropriate for registering for developer contributions for biodiversity net gain.
  3. To comply with our role as a supporting authority and support Lancashire County Council as the responsible authority, in the development of the Lancashire local nature recovery strategy
  4. To undertake a green corridors mapping exercise to identify opportunities to create and enhance habitats across the borough
  5. To review our mowing schedule to incorporate low intervention areas and provide better habitat for wildlife
  6. To create a work programme for ponds on a 5- to 10-year management cycle
  7. To ensure South Ribble and its suppliers only use peat free alternatives for compost
  8. To promote awareness and understanding of the park's wildlife and associated management in South Ribble using engagement, education, signage and comms
  9. To deliver the corporate targets for tree planting in the borough by developing partnerships with landowners and other organisations
  10. To continue to support and grow our own Friends Groups by expanding our programme of conservation volunteering opportunities and to help facilitate community groups already committed to biodiversity and climate projects
  11. Continue to engage with residents and park users to tackle environmental crimes such as litter, dog fouling and fly tipping