Nature Networks in Perth and Kinross

Overview

The purpose of this consultation is to gather views on the draft Nature Networks identified in Perth and Kinross. This consultation will help draft the future Nature Networks Strategy and Action Plan.

A Nature Network connects nature-rich sites, restoration areas, and other environmental projects through a series of areas of suitable habitat, habitat corridors and stepping stones. As well as supporting regional and national approaches to protect and restore nature, they provide local benefits to wildlife and people.

This supports the Scottish Government’s commitment to protect at least 30% of land for nature by 2030 (“30x30”), by ensuring that designated sites are not isolated but function as part of a wider, connected ecological network.

These networks are intended to support biodiversity, help species adapt to climate change, and deliver wider environmental benefits.

The focus of this work is on connecting existing nature-rich and protected sites across the rural landscape. Work to improve connections for wildlife within towns and surrounding areas will be taken forward separately through the Open Space Strategy and are therefore not included within this mapping exercise.

Linkages between the Perth and Kinross Draft Forestry and Woodland Strategy, Open Space Strategy and Nature Networks Guidance Consultations. 

The Forestry and Woodland Strategy, Open Space Strategy and Nature Networks guidance are intended to all work together to help create greener, healthier and more connected places.  The Forestry and Woodland Strategy identifies where woodlands should be protected, improved and expanded, while the Open Space Strategy helps plan and manage parks, greenspaces and other outdoor areas that people use and enjoy.  Nature Networks bring these elements together by creating connections between habitats, helping wildlife move more easily through the landscape and making nature more resilient. 

By working together, these strategies will help the Council meet its responsibilities under the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019, support nature recovery, tackle climate change, improve access to high-quality greenspaces, and create healthier, more sustainable places for people and wildlife. 

These documents will help to inform the preparation of the Perth and Kinross Local Development Plan 3 and support delivery of wider national objectives relating to climate change, nature recovery and placemaking contained within National Planning Framework 4.

Why your views matter

We want to understand whether the proposed network routes and actions are appropriate, achievable and informed by local knowledge. We are interested in what works well within the current proposals, as well as any challenges, constraints or opportunities that may influence delivery.

We are keen to hear from landowners, developers, community groups, environmental organisations and other stakeholders. This includes those already involved in habitat restoration or land management, as well as those who may be interested in contributing in the future.

Your feedback will help us identify where improvements can be made, including refining network routes, identifying missing connections, and strengthening the proposed actions. We are also interested in understanding opportunities for partnership working that could support the delivery of Nature Networks.

Please refer to the Nature Networks Draft Map, and the Nature Networks Consultation document to assist your response. The Nature Networks Story Map  is also available and provides a summary of the approach and the proposed Networks.

The Nature Networks map is an aspirational plan that outlines how we can restore biodiversity by connecting nature-rich sites across Perth and Kinross. The map highlights nature-rich sites known as Core Sites and suggests ways to link these areas through corridors. These corridors act as pathways that allow wildlife to move between Core Sites, ensuring a healthier, more diverse ecosystem. The goal is to create a network of interconnected natural habitats, improving biodiversity over time.

Your views are important to us, and we appreciate your time and feedback.