Have your say on a plan to help nature thrive in Dorset

People in Dorset are being invited to share their views on an exciting new plan to help restore and protect nature across the county.

The Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy, developed by Dorset Council with the help of BCP Council, Natural England and a wide range of local people and organisations, aims to drive co-ordinated action to make nature bigger, better and more connected throughout Dorset.

Dorset is known for its beautiful landscapes, and its natural environment supports a wide variety of wildlife and local communities. People across the county depend on nature for health, food, water, economy and enjoyment. And healthy ecosystems, with thriving wildlife, provide essential solutions to issues like climate change, flooding and pollution.

But nature in Dorset is declining.  Over the years, the amount and types of wildlife in the county have reduced and many areas for nature have been split up or lost. This led Dorset Council to declare a nature emergency in July 2024.

The new local nature recovery strategy will tackle this decline by identifying priority species and habitats, and coordinating efforts to create, improve, and connect nature areas across Dorset.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council and Cabinet Member for Climate, said:

“We urgently need to halt and reverse the decline of nature in our county.  And Dorset’s local nature recovery strategy will be a powerful tool that will help focus efforts and resources where they’re needed most.

“A huge amount of work has gone into producing this strategy, and I’d like to thank all the people and organisations who have input into it so far.  Collective action will be key to ensuring nature thrives in our county for years to come.”

The Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy is open for consultation from 7 May to 30 July 2025. To help shape the strategy, complete a short survey online or request a paper copy from your local library.

If you have any questions about accessing the strategy or survey, email LNRS@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call Dorset Council’s customer services on 01305 221000.