Chesterfield Borough Council has published its Biodiversity Duty Report and Action Plan, setting out progress made to protect and enhance nature across the borough and actions planned through to 2031.
The report brings together work already under way across council services and shows how biodiversity is being embedded into planning, land management, community engagement and climate action.
Trees Planted and Green Spaces Recognised
More than 10,300 trees were planted across the borough over two planting seasons. The council's Grassland Management Policy has helped create pollinator-friendly spaces and improve habitat value on council-owned land.
Eight council-managed green spaces achieved Green Flag Award status in 2025/26, recognising high standards of environmental management, biodiversity and visitor experience.
Community Engagement and Habitat Creation
The council has worked with communities, schools and partners to raise awareness and support nature recovery, including bird box building sessions, school activities and the Wilder Chesterfield project delivered with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.
As Local Planning Authority, the council has approved six Biodiversity Gain Plans by January 2026. This supports habitat creation and long-term monitoring at sites such as Wild Whittington, Derbyshire's first registered habitat bank.
Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, said: "The report demonstrates Chesterfield Borough Council's commitment to meeting its enhanced biodiversity duty and supporting a greener, more resilient borough for future generations."
The full Biodiversity Duty Report and Action Plan is available on the council's Biodiversity Duty Report page.
