Expanding and linking areas tor wildliie to create an ecological network across Cheshire is an ambitious, long-term and large-scale initiative which will have a lasting impact on the county and those who live, work and visit it. By 2020 the EcologicalNetwork for Cheshire will encompass nearly 4000 ha of new and restored peatlands, heathlands, woodlands, meadows and wetlands linked together with existing priority habitats to form a coherent and sustainable network that will improve conditions for many species of plants and animals. The rural economy will be boosted, people's contact with nature will increase, and by using the network as guidance, development and land use planning will work with, and not against, nature. During 2005 Cheshire County Council and its partners have moved from planning the ecological network to its practical implementation on the ground. This involves the consideration of a whole new set of issues including: Scheme identification and assessment; technical feasibility ofhabitat creation; role of interpretation, access and education; community consultation and involvement; delivery models, funding and decision-making structures; and demonstrating the economic, social and regeneration case for an ecological network. The Cheshire approach has lessons for other managers of long-term, large-scale projects.
展开▼
