Vision set out for improving access to nature in Worcestershire

The Worcestershire Green Infrastructure Strategy is the county’s plan for maintaining and improving access to the natural environment. It describes the importance of green infrastructure, details the county’s priorities, and sets out the vision for delivering green infrastructure that benefits communities. 

Green infrastructure includes public parks, nature reserves, river and canal corridors, allotments, gardens, street trees and other wildlife-friendly spaces. Good green infrastructure allows everyone access to nature in their daily lives, giving people access to outdoor spaces for sport, recreation, relaxation and well-being. 

Councillor Richard Morris, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Green infrastructure is the network of green spaces and natural habitats that connect our cities, towns and villages, providing a range of benefits for our environment, economy and communities.

“89% of adults agree that green and natural spaces are good for mental health* and access to nature, parks and open spaces are some of the biggest factors on somewhere being a good place to live**.

“So, it’s fantastic that we have now this strategy in place, it’s a document to provide hope and one that must become a powerful tool in delivering a more sustainable future for our county.

The strategy has been published by the Worcestershire Green Infrastructure Partnership, which includes Worcestershire County Council, alongside stakeholders from district councils, the natural and historical environment, sustainability, recreation and transport.

The strategy sets out the principles and priorities for green infrastructure in Worcestershire and identifies the needs and opportunities to inform future planning and management of green infrastructure. It will drive the implementation, delivery and long-term maintenance of a high-quality natural environment in the county.

For more information about the strategy visit the Planning for Green Infrastructure webpages.

*The People and Nature Survey 2020 (a Natural England survey) found that 89% of adults agree or strongly agree that green and natural spaces are good for mental health and wellbeing
**The Worcestershire Viewpoint Survey 2021 found that access to nature, and parks and open spaces were two of the top five things that made somewhere a good place to live