The Council has a legal duty under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, as strengthened by the Environment Act 2021, to conserve and enhance biodiversity. The legislation requires that public authorities consider what action they can take to further the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity and put policies in place to help deliver this duty.
Our Biodiversity Report sets out how the council is responding to its statutory biodiversity duty and identifies the policies, objectives and actions being taken to protect, restore and enhance nature across the borough. Below is a summary of recommended actions.
| Action | Requirement | Timescale | |
| Action 1 | Clear governance | Attribute accountability for the Biodiversity Duty to a Cabinet Member and Lead Officer |
Short |
| Action 2 | Development Management policies |
Incorporate robust policies for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity within the Castle Point Plan |
Short |
| Action 3 | Land management |
Review the management of Council land –especially LoWS – to maintain and enhance biodiversity. Encourage other landowners with LoWS to maintain and enhance biodiversity also. |
Medium |
| Action 4 | Process review | Establish a suitable framework for incorporating consideration of biodiversity into all internal decision-making processes and practices. |
Medium |
| Action 5 | Education | Actively promote the understanding and appreciation of biodiversity to residents and businesses. |
Medium |
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