Biodiversity overview
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity is vital to our wellbeing and key to the quality of life in Staffordshire. A healthy environment is also central to the economic prosperity and the county's desirability as a place to live, work and visit.
It is a fundamental indicator of whether we are succeeding in achieving a sustainable future for Staffordshire. We are committed to conserving biodiversity as an intimate component of sustainable development.
Staffordshire supports a varied and diverse landscape which is rich in habitats and species. In recent decades loss of Staffordshire's biodiversity has been dramatic and it is essential that all remaining areas are protected and managed and that wildlife areas previously lost are restored wherever possible.
What about nature?
Nature is also important to help us maintain a healthy lifestyle, for environmental education and lifelong learning about the world around us. It is fundamental to our heritage, culture and sense of place and provides relaxation and inspiration. Providing access to nature is important for all within the community.
The ecologists within the Rural County Unit provide a range of services to ensure wildlife is protected and cared for across the county. The ecologists provide advice on land management, particularly country parks such as Cannock Chase, in addition to advice to planners and engineers.
To speak to someone about any of the above, please contact us.
Protected species advice
Ecology staff within the Rural County Unit have put together an advice document which is intended to provide supporting information for those who may find themselves having to deal in some way with protected and priority species.
This is periodically revised to incorporate the latest legislation and planning guidance. The advice covers survey and information requirements when protected species might be affected by planning applications or other projects, legal requirements and species' ecology.
Further information
For information on European protected species licensing requirements see the gov.uk website. Or for further advice contact us.