Six of the town’s open spaces have been identified as locations for the creation of habitat as part of the draft Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS).
The primary purpose of the Essex LNRS is to find locations for the creation of habitat. It aims to identify the locations most likely to provide the greatest benefit for nature and the wider environment.
The following sites were nominated by Harlow Council and feature in the draft strategy:
- Harlow Woods SSSI, LNR and surrounding buffer
- Parndon Lock Meadow and Parndon Moat Marsh
- River Stort ‘gap’ - located north of Harlow between the A414/Fifth Avenue bridge and the Mead Park industrial estate at Templefields.
- Jean McAlpine and Canons Brook Country Park
- Church End Pond and Netteswell Pond Conservation Area
- Latton Common and Harlow Common
The identification of these sites in the LNRS means that the focus for improvement and investment in habitat will be directed to these areas.
The sites were nominated by the council as part of its work to deliver its missions to renew our neighbourhoods and secure investment for Harlow’s future.
Councillor Alastair Gunn, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Garden Town and Planning, said:
“The creation of Local Nature Recovery Strategies through the landmark Environment Act passed in 2021 is all about reversing the decline in our natural environment. We know the UK is one of the most nature-depleted in the world, so it is vital local authorities get to work on better protecting our natural environment.
"Harlow is blessed with abundant green spaces, from our town park to our green fingers and wedges. If protected, these can allow nature to thrive within our town. That's why I believe it is important Harlow is included in Essex's nature recovery strategy."
"Harlow Council has worked to secure the nomination of six important local sites from across the district as part of the draft strategy Essex County Council is consulting on. If included, this will protect their status as areas for nature and wildlife and may help secure investment to improve them further in future.
"I would encourage Harlow residents to respond to Essex's consultation to let them know we want to see Harlow's natural assets protected.”
The consultation on the draft Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) runs until 25 October 2024.