NEW efforts are being made to protect the natural environment of England’s biggest county so it can be enjoyed by all.

People and groups across North Yorkshire are being invited to have their say on the aims and strategy of the North Yorkshire and York Local Nature Partnership.

The partnership is one of 48 set up in England to “embed the value of the environment in local decisions to support healthier people and a thriving economy.”

Its aims include ensuring areas of the greatest wildlife value are protected, improving the health and wellbeing of local communities through access and use of natural spaces, and to encourage enterprises to conduct their businesses in ways which benefit the natural environment.

The partnership has already identified several priority areas where work will be focused initially. They include landscape projects in the River Ure, River Swale and Vale of Pickering areas as well as the North York Moors National Park and Coast and the Howardian Hills.

Chairman Ian Fielding said: “A wide range of organisations have been working together to establish a strategy which will help positively change the way we manage our countryside for the future, for the benefit of the wildlife and people reliant upon it.

“We’ve also been making links with the Local Enterprise Partnership and Health and Wellbeing Board to identify mutual priorities and opportunities to work together.”

To find out more and to take part in the consultation – which continues until March 9 - visit nypartnerships.org.uk/lnp or contact 01609-533240.