Guest blog: Benefits of engaging local communities in BNG – Natural England
Early last year Natural England asked me to write a blog about community engagement and some ideas I have been working on.
"Natural England advises the government on natural environment matters, helps protect and restore nature, and encourages people to enjoy and get involved with their surroundings."
One of those ideas is Newham's Hidden Gems Map, which includes feedback from Fiona (from Forest Gate Community Garden). We now have 60+ green and blue spaces where local people provide their time for free, often working tirelessly to make a place for Nature to come together: That being people, plants and wild-life in the same space!
The biodiversity legislation called Biodiversity Net Gain, was made English Law in early 2014. its complicated but 3 webinars are planned in June (organised by Laura Collins (CPRE/London Friend of Groups Coordinator) to introduce the concepts and how communities can benefit.
I hope you like the blog - and if you have any questions - please don't hesitate to contact me. rosie@whicheloe.net