Council named as national finalist for nature recovery work

Mid Suffolk District Council has received national recognition for its work to boost biodiversity – investing in land for nature recovery and a legacy of tackling climate change for generations to come.

It has been shortlisted in Nature 2030’s Political Purpose Awards, in the Planning for Nature Recovery category.

The award recognises those taking positive action to embed nature as part of every day life, ensuring planning decisions deliver greener towns and cities, healthier communities and space for wildlife to thrive.

The council’s recent initiatives have included:

• Setting aside a £1.8 million Nature Recovery Budget and investing in 30 hectares of land in Thorndon, Palgrave and Stowmarket, specifically for nature recovery, with extensive public engagement helping to shape local management agreements.
• The expansion of the council’s meadow management programme, replacing mown grass with long grass and wildflowers.
• Tree and hedge planting, including the creation of community orchards.

The council also continues to run its popular Tree for Life scheme, where a free tree is gifted to parents who welcome a new child into their family.

Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, Andy Mellen, said: “We’re delighted to have the council’s investment and hard work recognised in putting environmental sustainability and social justice at the heart of everything we do.

“We are committed to grasping this once-in-a-generation chance to face up to the challenge of climate change.

“By making real change happen for our residents and communities, we can be part of a revolution we can all be proud of.”

Other shortlisted nominees include neighbouring East Suffolk Council, as well as Dorset Council, the London Borough of Sutton and Forest of Dean District Council – with the winner announced at a ceremony on Tuesday, September 8, in the House of Commons.

John Higginson, founder of Nature 2030, said: “It is an honour to recognise the very best environmental champions in UK public life.

“From the corridors of Westminster to grassroots movements across the country, the stakes could not be higher, and these awards shine a light on those rising to meet them.”

The winners were selected by a panel deeply involved in environmental causes, including Animal Friends Insurance, London Wildlife Trust, Keep Britain Tidy and Greenpeace UK.

You can read more information on the awards on the Nature 2030 website: www.nature2030.com