Nature Conservation and Biodiversity

The plant and animal species found in the United Kingdom today have all been affected by Man's activities over the centuries. Today, more than ever, these activities are having negative effects on the natural world and its species. Major threats include new development, pollution, changing land usage and intensification of agriculture. Changes across the United Kingdom have also been reflected locally in Southend-on-Sea. 

Conserving semi-natural habitats and threatened species which still exist has never been more important, and Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is playing its part. Firstly, and importantly, it manages nature reserves both on its own and in partnership with other organisations. It also organises the Biodiversity and Environmental Awareness Working Party, a body made up of representatives from twelve local wildlife organisations, Officers and Councillors, which meets regularly to discuss issues that include nature conservation in the Borough. 

Even in the Borough of Southend-on-Sea there are populations of several significant species and areas of nationally and internationally important habitat. Ensuring these species and habitats are protected and conserved is a substantial responsibility for the Borough Council.  

A number of voluntary groups, individuals and organisations also play their part in helping to protect species and managing sites for wildlife. These groups rely heavily on the enthusiasm of their volunteers and where possible Southend Borough Council continues to promote their individual objectives and encourage new members. Details of local groups can be found in Appendix 2 in the Local Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Raising awareness and providing information to residents is also undertaken by Southend Borough Council and this is a role that will increase in line with the objectives within Southend's Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

The Annual Report of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan highlights the actions being taken, progress made and data collected each year. Reports can be viewed by clicking on 'Related Downloads' on the right hand side of this page, then clicking on 'Nature Conservation and Biodiversity' and then the Report you wish to view.