Biodiversity

Climate change is having a serious impact on the biodiversity of the planet, and with it some of our best natural defences to adapt and tackle it, such as carbon sinks in forestry and wetlands. Destruction of eco systems by humans and rising global temperatures caused by climate change, leads to reduced numbers of organisms which are vital for a healthy balance necessary to support all life on earth. So, it’s important to tackle both crises together.

Biodiversity in the Borough

Protecting and improving biodiversity is a national priority. The UK has set a target to halt species decline by 2030 and support nature’s recovery long-term. New approaches, such as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS), mean action is now built into planning and decision-making.

At a local level, the Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy identifies where nature can be restored and enhanced, helping guide habitat creation and investment across the area.

Ashford Borough Council has a duty to protect and enhance biodiversity. We recognise that healthy natural spaces support:

Physical and mental wellbeing
Climate resilience
Flood management

Ashford is home to a rich and varied landscape, alongside a growing population. Our Borough Plan – Planet, People and Place – ensures nature and sustainability remain central to future growth.

We report on our biodiversity work every five years. Our first Biodiversity Duty Monitoring Report (March 2026) explains how biodiversity is being built into council services and decisions. Our previous Biodiversity Duty Statement and preliminary action outline document can be found here for reference.

To support long-term action, we are developing a Biodiversity Action Plan and a Landscape and Biodiversity Strategy, alongside detailed management plans to guide work on the ground.

These plans follow a key principle: creating spaces for nature that are bigger, better, more connected.