This report covers the period from 12 February 2024 to 1 January 2026. It explains what the council has done, what it plans to do, and how it is meeting biodiversity net gain requirements.
Background
What the biodiversity duty is
The biodiversity duty was introduced by the Environment Act 2021. It requires public authorities in England to consider how their work can conserve and enhance biodiversity.
This includes:
- assessing what actions could protect biodiversity
- setting policies and objectives
- taking action to achieve those objectives
What this means for Cumberland Council
Cumberland Council must:
consider how to conserve and enhance biodiversity
- agree clear policies and objectives
- take action to deliver these objectives
Reporting requirements
Public bodies must publish a biodiversity duty report every 5 years.
This report covers:
- the period from 12 February 2024 to 1 January 2026
- how the council has considered biodiversity
- what actions have been taken
How this report is used
The report:
- demonstrates legal compliance
- supports monitoring and evaluation
- informs policy and strategy development
- shares best practice
- provides evidence for planning and investment decisions
Policies, objectives and actions
Council plan
The council plan identifies environmental resilience and the climate emergency as priorities and puts environmental considerations at the centre of decision making.
Climate and nature strategy
Adopted in July 2024, this strategy supports carbon neutrality by 2037 and nature recovery.
Key objectives include:
- adapting to climate change
- supporting thriving plants and wildlife
- building skills and knowledge
- promoting sustainable lifestyles
Partnership working
The council works with partners including Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre, Cumbria Local Nature Partnership, and others to support biodiversity.
Future actions
The Local Plan will support biodiversity through policies such as biodiversity net gain, green infrastructure, and wildlife-friendly design.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
Key results
- 198 applications required BNG
- 40 biodiversity gain plans were approved
- average gain of 29.95%
Conclusion
Cumberland Council has developed a coordinated approach to biodiversity supported by strong strategies, partnerships, and measurable outcomes.