Nature conservation has become a major focus of attention for all sectors of our community, including Local Authorities. As concern mounts over the decline of species and the destruction of their habitats, it is incumbent on all Local Authorities to take a lead by taking a positive, pro-active approach to nature conservation.
Responding to this challenge, Hastings Borough Council have developed this nature conservation strategy and is the first Borough in Sussex to appoint an Ecologist. The Strategy outlines policy objectives to protect the green network of wildlife habitats and promote a positive attitude to the management and use of these areas.
There are many facets to improving the natural environment in Hastings from the way we manage our land to encourage our native flora and fauna, planting of native trees and shrubs which bear seeds and fruits beneficial to wildlife and setting standards for developers to comply with and take account of nature conservation and the policies of the Strategy.
There is also a wider commitment to be realised through the nature conservation strategy. Hastings, along with other Local Authorities, are committed under Agenda 21 to produce local Biological Diversity Action Plans in order to contribute to a national picture of biological diversity to halt the loss of species and habitats locally and world wide.
This will see us continually collating and publishing information on our local habitats, setting targets for improving and expanding habitats and natural landscapes and halting habitat fragmentation.
The natural environment is constantly under threat. We are the custodians of this environment and must therefore act to protect it. The development of the nature conservation strategy is a further step in enabling us to measure our commitment to a quality environment for everyone in order that future generations enjoy the wildlife habitats it supports.
Councillor Colin Dormer
Chairman of Tourism & Leisure Committee - 1996
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This page last updated: 27/03/2003