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Mersey Forest Plan wins major award

25 October 2016

Our plan for more trees and better local environment sets the standard for others to emulate, says panel of experts.

An influential publication from local environment partnership The Mersey Forest has been awarded the UNESCO UK Man and the Biosphere Urban Forum Award for Excellence.

 

The Mersey Forest Plan is our long term strategic vision for growing and developing local woodlands and green infrastructure, helping to make Merseyside and north Cheshire a beautiful place to live, work and play. Thanks to The Mersey Forest 9 million trees have been planted in the area since 1991, transforming many derelict industrial landscapes.

 

The award was given by a forum of specialists involved with the environment and nature conservation in urban areas. It praises the document for its design, for its emphasis on people and organisations working together, and for how it explains the benefits to the community.

 

Richard Scott, Chair of the UNESCO UK Man and the Biosphere Urban Forum, gave the award to the Mersey Forest Steering Group, made up of representatives of local authorities in the area.

 

Richard Scott commented:
"The plan is an excellent example of a regional document aimed at local communities. It's well put together, well designed and a pleasure to read and look at"

 

Paul Nolan, Director, The Mersey Forest, said:
"We're overjoyed to receive this unexpected accolade for The Mersey Forest Plan. Our plan sets out a clear vision for a greener Merseyside and north Cheshire, and it's one that's inspired many local people and organisations. We hope this award will inspire more people to get involved and help make the plan into reality."

 

The forum also praised the Plan for how it has been adopted as a material consideration in local planning and supports the development control process. It's also recognised as a good example of how local authorities can work together to improve the landscapes and environments that cross boundaries.

 

The Plan includes a section that explains where new trees and woodlands may be planted across Merseyside and north Cheshire and sets out targets for tree coverage.



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