Nature Recovery Plan

Appendix B: Useful Links

Some links to other resources that you may find helpful, some were referred to in the threads

To deepen your understanding of the themes discussed in the Nature Recovery Plan, here are the most authoritative and relevant external resources. These links connect the local context of Sidmouth and Devon to the broader national strategies and scientific frameworks mentioned in the text.

1. The Scientific Blueprint: The Lawton Report

The text repeatedly references the Lawton Principles (More, Bigger, Better, Joined). To read the original 2010 report that changed British conservation forever, visit the official government archive.

Making Space for Nature (The Lawton Report) – The foundational 2010 report by Professor Sir John Lawton.

2. Statutory Strategy: Devon’s LNRS

The Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is a major theme in the articles. Devon County Council hosts a dedicated portal that explains how this strategy is being implemented across the county.

Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy Portal – Information on how the "blueprint" is being drawn up for Devon.
The Devon LNRS Viewer – The interactive map mentioned in the learning activities where you can see "Species Zones" and "High Opportunity Areas."

3. Legal Framework: Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)

For those interested in the 10% legal requirement for developers and how "Biodiversity Units" are traded, the UK government provides a clear guide for the public and developers.

Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain (GOV.UK) – A simple explanation of the mandatory rules that began in early 2024.

4. Local Leadership: Wildlife Trusts & Partners

Several local organizations are mentioned as "Core Areas" or managers of the landscape. Their websites offer specific details on local sites like the Pebblebed Heaths or the River Sid.

Devon Wildlife Trust – The leading charity for nature recovery in the county; great for finding local events and reserves.
The Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust – Information on one of Sidmouth’s most important neighboring "Core Areas."
Sid Valley Biodiversity Group – The primary local group for residents looking to join the "Math of the Micro-Volunteer" in Sidmouth.

5. National Context: State of Nature Report

To understand why the text mentions a "silent reality" behind the postcard views, the State of Nature report provides the data on species decline across the UK.

State of Nature Report 2023 – The most comprehensive overview of how wildlife is faring in the UK.

6. Farming & Soil: Environmental Land Management (ELMs)

The text discusses "Nature-Friendly Farming" and "Soil-First" revolutions. The ELM scheme is the government’s new way of paying farmers for "public goods" like clean water and carbon storage.

Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMs) – Details on how the government is moving from "subsidies" to "stewardship."

7. Aesthetic Philosophy: Cues to Care

While "Cues to Care" is a psychological and design concept mentioned in the text, you can see its practical application through the Plantlife "No Mow May" and "Road Verge" campaigns.