The development of an overarching nature recovery strategy (Nature Recovery Action Plan – NRAP) for the Levels is a key output.
This strategy will link to, and be informed by, strategies being developed by Local Nature Partnerships (LNPs) in Cardiff, Newport and Monmouthshire, and will inform the development of future Living Levels projects.
The strategy will focus on six key species and six key habitats or landscape features. Each species and feature will have its own action plan.
The NRAP will be linked to a GIS master map that will record protected site (SSSI) boundaries, nature reserves and Special Wildlife Sites, participating landowner holdings, survey and research data, historic site data, and Living Levels and partner projects. This map will build on the Gwent Levels Resilient Ecological Networks (RENs) mapping works led by Natural Resources Wales
We will also continue to collaborate with the LivingEarth project led by Aberystwyth University to investigate the potential for satellite mapping of the Levels for future modelling.
A programme of capital works will be delivered in consultation with farmers and other landowners through Project Plan C. This will continue the ditch restoration work from the previous programme but will also look at identifying and managing areas of unimproved grassland, diversifying improved grassland, hedgerow management, and hedgerow trees. The creation of green corridors will help to link existing biodiversity hotspots, increasing landscape resilience, and creating new areas for wildlife to thrive.
Nature Recovery Action Plan
Project lead
Natural Heritage Officer
Project timeline
August 2026 - August 2031
Project reference
B1
Contact
Natural Heritage Officer