National treasure Sir David Attenborough has backed a major strategy aimed at restoring nature, improving green spaces and tackling the effects of climate change across West Yorkshire.
The broadcaster and environmental campaigner praised the region’s first Local Nature Recovery Strategy, unveiled by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin on Wednesday.
The strategy sets out plans to restore wildlife habitats, improve water quality, increase tree planting and create more accessible green spaces for communities across the region.
It also aims to strengthen West Yorkshire’s resilience to extreme weather, including heatwaves, droughts and flooding, which experts say are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
One of the key priorities is improving access to nature for residents, particularly in urban areas where green space is limited. The issue is particularly significant in Bradford. A recent study found Bradford West to be among the 20 parliamentary constituencies in the country with the lowest levels of publicly accessible natural space.
The strategy outlines a range of measures including creating new wetlands and ponds, restoring habitats for wildlife, improving river and canal water quality, and rewetting upland landscapes to help retain water and reduce flood risks. It also seeks to make towns and cities more wildlife-friendly while encouraging more people to spend time outdoors to support health and wellbeing.
Examples of existing projects highlighted in the document include Norfolk Gardens in Bradford city centre. The area was previously dominated by roads and traffic but has since been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly green space. The strategy states: “Once, it was concrete and tarmac. Today, wildflowers bloom in Bradford’s City Park.”
Speaking at the launch, Mayor Tracy Brabin said action was needed now to address the growing impact of extreme weather. She said: “The time to act on extreme weather is now – in West Yorkshire we’ve experienced record-breaking heatwaves this summer and seen once-in-a-hundred-year floods becoming more common.
“Nature is supposed to be enjoyed, and we want future generations to understand just how lucky we are to have beautiful landscapes and green spaces on our doorstep, so it’s our responsibility to protect them.
“This plan sets out targets to restore habitats, improve water quality, and make it easier for more people to spend more time in nature, giving us real hope for the future as we work to make West Yorkshire a greener, nature-rich region for all.”
West Yorkshire Combined Authority shared details of the strategy with Sir David, who responded with a letter of support.
In his message, he described the plan as a practical roadmap for a greener future.
He wrote: “West Yorkshire’s first nature recovery strategy describes how a still greener, more diverse future can be achieved through realistic, practical action.
“I hope it inspires many others to develop a strong connection with the natural world, not only through action to help wildlife but also through the arts and other activities.
“I wish it every success.”
The Local Nature Recovery Strategy will guide future environmental projects across West Yorkshire and help identify areas where investment can deliver the greatest benefits for nature, communities and climate resilience.
