Purpose

The Biodiversity & Net Gain Strategy has
been developed as a proactive response to the growing environmental
challenges, emphasising the conservation and enhancement of
biodiversity within Wirral and our neighbouring regions. The
strategy outlines a set of priorities and objectives aimed at
protecting and enhancing biodiversity, ensuring its long-term
survival, and fostering wider environmental benefits. It encourages
the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders, including local
communities, businesses, and wildlife organisations, in achieving
the outlined objectives.
 
The strategy aligns with several key national
legislations and policies, including the Environment Act 2021,
which mandates the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity
(under the ‘enhanced duty’) and the implementation of
mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in development projects (from
January 2024).
 
The strategy acts as a framework for change
and action that will both be achievable and deliver long term
impacts. It represents the Councils first consideration of the
actions we can take towards conserving and enhancing biodiversity,
including:
 
· Securing a mandatory 10% Biodiversity Net
Gain for all development projects in Wirral.
· Establishing a Biodiversity Action Plan
to support priority habitat and species targets.
· Maximising the potential from the
council’s estate to support biodiversity.
· Harnessing local knowledge and expertise
to identify opportunities and solutions to local biodiversity
issues.
· Fostering effective communication and
engagement to achieve biodiversity goals. The Biodiversity &
Net Gain Strategy aligns with the following Wirral Plan (2021-
2026) priority: Sustainable Futures Working towards a clean-energy,
sustainable borough that leads the way in its response to the
climate emergency and is environmentally friendly.

Decision

Resolved –
That the Biodiversity & Net Gain Strategy be approved.