Have your say to help nature thrive

A new consultation is asking residents to comment on key locations and strategies that will help nature thrive and benefit the wider environment.

The Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), which includes Thurrock, asks residents to share their views on the best ways to help nature have an opportunity to recover.

Cllr Lee Watson, Cabinet member for Good Growth, said: "This strategy will help us to identify the key areas where natural habitats and wildlife can flourish, and in turn enhance the borough's environment.

"We want to make sure that as many people as possible can have a say to help refine and improve the strategy to ensure the preservation and enhancement of diverse landscapes and habitats, from ancient woodlands and farmlands to wetlands, coastlines and urban spaces, throughout Thurrock and the whole of greater Essex, for the benefit of generations to come."

The Essex LNRS provides a unique opportunity for all residents to have their say in shaping a thriving future for Thurrock, Southend-on-Sea and Essex, where nature is given the right set of circumstances to recover.

Introduced under the Environment Act in 2021, the Essex LNRS is a collaborative strategy involving input from farmers, landowners, environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs), charities, local authorities and members of the public.

Residents can take part in the consultation, which runs until 25 October 2024, by going to consultations.essex.gov.uk/c-e/lnrs-public-consultation/