Draft Aberdeenshire Nature Network

What you told us

Aberdeenshire Council invited feedback on a draft nature network for the area. The network links protected sites, local nature conservation sites and towns, using rivers and water corridors. It aims to support nature recovery and improve resilience. Full detail of the consultation, including the project documents and mapping, can be found here: Draft Aberdeenshire Nature Network | Engage Aberdeenshire

We received 54 responses to the consultation and are very grateful to those who provided feedback. Many thanks to you all.

36% of respondents agreed with the methodology used to create the nature network, and a majority of 64% said they did not. Comments on the methodology included:

• That the range of habitats used in the mapping should be broadened out from rivers to include woodland, moorland, wetlands and grassland for example
• The 250m buffer used around the rivers and protected sites lacks justification and is overly large
• The map risks limiting built development by creating the impression of ‘no development’ zones
• Long distance outdoor access paths such as the Deeside Way should be added
• Rather the focussing on a single network, a more habitat focussed set of networks should be set up looking to join up like-for-like habitats such as a wetland network and a separate one for woodlands, providing a positive future vision

52% of respondents agreed with the proposed uses of the nature network, 48% disagreed. Comments on the proposed uses included:

• Disappointment at the network being presented as non-restrictive and only a focus for voluntary/optional action. It was felt that would fall short of the needs for nature recovery
• The key issues for nature are not addressed by the approach such as habitat loss, wildlife protection, pollution and development
• The wide corridors risk limiting development
• No measurable outcomes or monitoring processes are presented

What we are doing

We are now reviewing all the feedback given and looking to develop the methodology and mapping further in response. Our particular focus will be to:

• Consider if and how we can build in a wider range of habitats into the methodology
• Explore whether in and around towns we might represent the network differently
• Make sure the network’s purpose and benefits are clearly explained, while setting out a positive vision for the future.

We plan to update the methodology and related documents, and then share them again for further consultation.