Natterjack toads such as this have been identified as a priority in the strategy Picture: BCP Countryside Team

Nature recovery strategy launched to help wildlife thrive in BCP

Tait ap EllisOctober 6, 20250 Comment0

DECLINING wildlife populations in Dorset could see increased support to help them thrive after a Dorset council endorsed a new nature recovery strategy.

The newly-approved Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) will see greenspaces in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) protected for generations to come.

Dozens of species that make the natural area their own, from nightjars to natterjack toads, have been identified as priorities to reverse the decline in their local populations.

A delivery group will be formed to work with local communities and find ways to support nature, with the strategy aims of creating more space for nature that is bigger, better and more connected.

The group will also shine a light on key actions for priority areas – from heathlands to rivers, lakes and wetlands – which will take place to enhance greenspaces, and access to nature.

An already existing project to reverse the decline in nature has seen more than 37 hectares of land, the same as 52 football pitches, restored at Canford Heath nature reserve.

The vital work restored critical peatlands to the area, improving the habitat for nature and reducing the risk of urban wildfires.

Councillor Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, energy and environment at BCP Council, said: “The collaboration that lies behind this new strategy has been superb and will be the key to delivering real success.

“Nature recovery, and reversing decline, is vitally important in both rural and urban areas and the strategy we’ve endorsed represents a call to action for positive change.

“Our fantastic greenspaces team work brilliantly to maintain and restore our vast natural spaces and this strategy, and working with partners, will ensure we can go even further in protecting nature and wildlife.”

Dorset’s LNRS has been created alongside Dorset Council to set out a clear vision for nature recovery over the next 10 years across the county and was endorsed by BCP Council’s Cabinet at a meeting on October 1.

Representatives from more than 70 organizations – including Dorset Local Nature Partnership, Dorset Wildlife Trust, and Public Health Dorset – have all contributed to the formation of the strategy.

This will now be taken forward from 2026 with a new delivery group, ensuring the aims and activities of the strategy are put into action.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole boasts 2,500 hectares of greenspaces, more than 170 play spaces, and 19 sites of special scientific interest.