Mayor Dan Norris has announced £2.3 million of funding for environmental projects across the West of England that will enhance nature, improve public health, and mitigate against the impact of climate change.

A week after publishing the country’s first ever Local Nature Recovery Strategy, the Mayor of the West of England has announced the scale of the next round of his Green Recovery Fund.

Celebrating the projects, Mayor Dan Norris said:

“I said that I wanted to make the West of England the most nature-friendly region in the country. My West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is delivering exactly that.

"These innovative projects represent another crucial step forward in taking action to protect and restore nature across West of England, after the giant leap of our Nature Recovery Strategy last week. Together, they will help nature recovery and access to nature, tackle impacts of climate change, and bring numerous benefits to our communities."

The six projects being funded represent one of the largest ever investments in nature-based projects in the West of England and will impact on several ecological and public health goals, including improving wildlife habitats and community engagement with nature.

Managing More Greenspace for Nature – Bristol

This initiative will enhance urban pollinator and wildlife habitats by expanding nature-managed land by 185 hectares. It will also launch a nature conservation volunteering and skills development program.

Linking the Levels – South Gloucestershire

This program aims to restore and interconnect critical habitats in the Lower Severn Vale and Shore of South Gloucestershire. Efforts will include wetland restoration, wildlife roost creation, and invasive species control, with strong community engagement.

Farm Clusters – Bristol Avon Rivers Trust

This farmer-led initiative will see local farmers working together, aided by a conservation advisor, to collectively protect the rural environment in the Chew Valley and surrounding area. These groups will promote sustainable agriculture, enhance biodiversity, and improve water quality.

Bathscape: Landscape City Framework – Bath & North East Somerset

This project will develop delivery plans for nature recovery in Bath. It will address issues such as ash dieback and lack of woodland management, particularly on Bath's hillsides and skyline, while showcasing nature delivery actions in key recreational areas.

Health and Nature Strategy – West of England Nature Partnership

This project will appoint a regional health and nature coordinator and fund a specific initiative in a deprived area of South Bristol. It will develop 'nature-health hubs' at healthcare settings, offering nature-based activities for wellbeing and helping to increase staff engagement.

Strategic Pollinator Project – Avon Wildlife Trust

This strategic initiative aims to restore habitats and support endangered species by creating pollen-rich areas along the B-Line from the Cotswolds to the Mendips. It will involve farmers, landholders, and businesses to address the decline in pollinators caused by unsustainable land use, development, and climate change.

https://www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk