Biodiversity
Introduction - Statutory Duty
Introduction - Statutory Duty
Under the 2021 Environment Act, public authorities (including town and parish councils) who operate in England must consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity in England.
Government guidance published on 17th May 2023 clarifies that, as a public authority, town and parish councils must:
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Consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity.
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Agree policies and specific objectives based on their consideration.
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Act to deliver their policies and achieve their objectives.
Town and parish councils, unlike other authorities, are not obliged to publish a report on their actions, but the Government guidance requires all public authorities to complete their first consideration of what action to take for biodiversity by 1 January 2024. They must agree their policies and objectives as soon as possible after this and may reconsider the selected actions within 5 years of completing their previous consideration, or more frequently if they choose.
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Hedgehog Highways - Hedgehog Street
We want to make sure the hedgehog, the UK’s only spiny mammal, remains a common and familiar part of British life. We know hedgehogs are in trouble. We’ve lost a third of all our hedgehogs since the millennium. Hedgehogs love gardens, and fortunately there are around half a million hectares of garden in the UK. We know what hedgehogs need to survive in gardens. Hedgehogs need access to lots of gardens to survive, so we are encouraging everyone to cooperate. That’s where you come in. More than 100,000 Hedgehog Champions are registered on this website, forming a vibrant and enthusiastic community. Champions help us make a real difference for hedgehogs all over the country. Hedgehog Champions can make hedgehog homes and feeding stations, support hedgehog highways and encourage their neighbours to join in. In an increasingly urbanised Britain, we choose to lose all that is complex and beautiful if we do not stand up for our wild animals and plants. We hope you can help us fight for the hedgehog.
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What can I feed hedgehogs?
Hedgehogs will relish any combination of meat-based wet dog or cat foods, or dry cat/kitten food. Just remember, they will be getting most of their food from insects and worms in the wild, and this food is only supplementary. Specially made hedgehog food is also widely available. Those resembling pet food with a high meat content are most suitable. Place in a shallow dish and put in a sheltered area of your garden, or a feeding station (see below), around sunset. Splitting food over several sites may reduce aggression at food bowls. Don’t forget to offer water bowls too!. Further information can be found on Hedgehog Street website.
