A Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is a spatial strategy for nature required by the Environment Act 2021. The Worcestershire LNRS was adopted by Worcestershire County Council in February 2026.

The LNRS sets out the local priorities to create and enhance habitats and recover populations of species. It is accompanied by a Local Habitat Map, which shows existing Areas of Particular Importance for Biodiversity (APIBs) and where the best gains for nature recovery can be achieved through the targeted delivery of Potential Measures.

Download the full strategy document: Worcestershire Local Nature Recovery Strategy (PDF)

Download the data sheets of Priorities and Potential Measures: Worcestershire LNRS Priorities and Potential Measures (PDF)

A series of StoryMaps have been published to explain the development of the LNRS Potential Measures, with links to additional advice and guidance.

Access the: 

• Habitat Potential Measures Storymap Collection
• Species Potential Measure Storymap Collection

Why do we need the LNRS?

Great Britain is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with almost 1,500 species threatened with extinction. Habitats and species are under huge pressure from threats including development, intensive land management, pollution, invasive species, pests and disease, and climate change.

The nation’s State of Nature Report 2023 shows that, in the UK:

• numbers of farmland birds have declined by 58% on average
• pollinating insect species, including bees, hoverflies, and moths, have declined in distribution by an average of 18%
• just 7% of land in England is protected for wildlife

Nature underpins our society and economy, providing us with wider environmental benefits including clean air, water, soil, pollination and carbon storage. Access to nature is vital for our physical and mental wellbeing. Nature needs collective, concerted action from us to help it recover.

Get in touch

Sign up to our planning consultation database to receive direct communications on LNRS preparation and review. 

Visit: Get Involved In Planning and register on the database to receive ‘Environmental Policy’ topics.

Contact us directly:

• email: lnrs@worcestershire.gov.uk 

Government policy on preparation and review of LNRS can be found here: Local nature recovery strategies - GOV.UK