Agenda item

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The Senior Ecologist presented a comprehensive update on the progress of the Biodiversity Task Group’s recommendations, highlighting successful community projects, the appointment of a biodiversity ranger, the implementation of the pollinator action plan, and ongoing collaboration with local volunteer groups

The Panel also received a presentation from the Biodiversity Project Ranger which described several ongoing and completed projects, including the South Lynn Community Orchard, Howell Dale wildflower area, Heacham Ponds restoration, and the Willows Nature Reserve. The projects involved collaboration with local volunteer groups such as the Nature Volunteer Network and Downham Wildlife Group, and included activities like hedge planting, wildflower meadow creation, and pond restoration.

It was reported that large-scale ecological enhancements were implemented in residential developments, including the installation of swift boxes, bee bricks, and bat boxes, with specific mention of the Parkway and Lynnsport developments.

The Senior Ecologist reported on the council’s statutory duty regarding biodiversity net gain, noting the approval of 23 biodiversity plans between January 2024 and December 2025, with 17 delivering on-site biodiversity and 6 utilising habitat banks, nearly 60% of which were within the local authority area. The full statutory report was published in March 2026.

Several Members of the Panel thanked the Biodiversity Task Group for their work carried out and also the Senior Ecologist, The Biodiversity Ranger and the Open Space team for their work carried out in delivery of projects.

The Panel discussed challenges such as drought affecting plantings, theft and vandalism of habitat materials, and the need for ongoing management of open spaces. Future plans include expanding wildflower meadows, further community engagement, and using donor sites for green hay. The importance of embedding biodiversity priorities in the local plan and supporting nature recovery through policy was emphasised.

Councillor Long highlighted the threat posed by non-native invasive species such as mink and muntjac deer, noting their impact on local biodiversity and the need for control measures. They referenced ongoing schemes by local drainage boards to eradicate mink and expressed concern that current biodiversity efforts may be undermined without addressing invasive species.

The Portfolio Holder, Councillor de Whalley clarified that the council’s obligation to manage invasive species was limited to its own land, but confirmed that reporting mechanisms were in place and that the public open spaces team had effectively removed reported invasive species, including Japanese knotweed.

Following a comment from Councillor Sandell, Claire Wiggs advised that a user-friendly newsletter or fact sheet for parish councils to support their biodiversity policies, including seasonal guidance and best practices for wildflower meadows and pollinator spaces was in the pipeline of being produced.

The Biodiversity Ranger advised that  he would be reviewing and implementing measures to prevent theft and vandalism of habitat piles and hibernacula at Florence Fen, including consideration of interpretation boards and physical deterrents.

In relation to community allotments and edible planting, consultation would take place with the public open spaces team regarding the feasibility of replacing some ornamental flower plantings with edible crops (e.g., courgettes, carrots, cucumbers) in council-managed spaces and report back to Councillor Bullen.

The Biodiversity Ranger advised that he would like to organise community events using the council's bat detector, targeting youth groups such as scouts, guides, cubs, and brownies, and promote engagement with local wildlife.

In response to a comment from Councillor Colwell, the Portfolio Holder advised that a National Emergency Briefing for Councillors was being arranged.

Councillor Colwell added that he supported making the Biodiversity Ranger post permanent.

Councillor Devulapalli emphasised that the embedding of biodiversity priorities in the upcoming local plan revision should be treated as a matter of urgency, ensuring it is included in the next iteration and not delayed.  The Assistant Director advised that there were currently polices in the Local Plan and National Policies.

Councillor Kemp added that the Council should be looking at opportunities to provide more green space, as this was important in tackling Climate Change.  The Portfolio Holder advised that a Green Infrastructure Strategy was being produced, and added that he thought that the Council had done remarkably well in creating green spaces.  The Assistant Director added that the Council was undertaking a Green Infrastructure Study as part of the Local Plan.

Councillor Ware requested that the biodiversity team provide a future update on the management of invasive species, referencing government and Forestry Commission reports and the significant impact of species like muntjac deer on local woodlands. The Chair advised submitting a formal request for this to be added to the work programme.

RESOLVED:That the Panel consider the progress towards the Biodiversity Task Group, as reported, and the future potential of the Biodiversity Project Ranger role.