Westmorland and Furness Council has today (12 May) launched a consultation asking for feedback on the draft Cumbria Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) which will shape the future of nature recovery across Cumbria.
The Cumbria LNRS is a collaboratively developed strategy which will provide priorities for restoring biodiversity by bringing together existing environmental data, established strategies, and national guidance. Crucially, it will also incorporate valuable local knowledge and expertise to ensure that actions taken for nature recovery deliver the greatest possible positive impact for Cumbria and its unique environment.
The draft LNRS identifies key ‘priorities’ for nature recovery within the county, alongside ‘potential measures’ that can be implemented to achieve these goals. Furthermore, the strategy highlights the geographical areas within Cumbria that are best suited for these targeted interventions.
Westmorland and Furness Council and the Supporting Authorities (Cumberland Council, Lake District National Park Authority, Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and Natural England) are now inviting residents, landowners, businesses, community groups, and anyone with an interest in nature recovery to have their say. Feedback will be instrumental in shaping the final Cumbria Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
The consultation can be completed online and will be open for 6 weeks - closing Sunday 22 June 2025.
Councillor Giles Archibald, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity and Environmental Services, and LNRS Project Board Chair, said:
“Biodiversity loss poses a significant threat to our planet. We rely on nature for our fresh water, pure air, food, timber, flora and fauna diversity, and medicine – as well as many recreational activities. But many species are at risk. This draft strategy provides Cumbria with the valuable opportunity to play a vital role in addressing this crisis by supporting, restoring and enhancing our biodiversity.
“The Cumbria Local Nature Recovery Strategy will be an important tool, guiding our efforts and ensuring that we work collaboratively to create an action plan for the council, our communities, and everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Cumbria.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to all of those who have contributed their time, expertise, and passion to reach this important milestone of producing the draft strategy.
"The wealth of knowledge and dedication reflected in this document is truly commendable. However, this draft is just the beginning. Now, we must shift our collective focus towards ensuring the finalised strategy is not just a document on a shelf, but a call for action that delivers real, tangible and lasting benefits for nature across Cumbria.
“We strongly encourage everyone to get involved and share their valuable thoughts and insights. Your voice matters in shaping the future of nature recovery in Cumbria.”
Cumbria is one of 48 designated strategy areas in England, as mandated by the Environment Act 2021, developing their own unique LNRS. Once finalised and submitted to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the strategy will be a crucial guiding document for nature recovery efforts in the area and will be reviewed periodically every 3 to 10 years to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.
Further information can be found on the Cumbria LNRS website.
You can also watch a video about the Local Nature Recovery Strategy consultation.