Conservation
The conservation of our natural and built environment and its resources is an essential aspect of the Council's work. It is important to conserve those features which contribute to the character and distinctiveness of Harrogate District and which help to improve the quality of all our lives.
Energy conservation and recycling also have a large part to play in the effective management of the District's resources so that future generations may experience the same quality of life as we enjoy today.
| Heritage & Design includes details about the built and man-made heritage of the District, including conservation areas, listed buildings, historic parks & gardens and historic battlefields. |
Conserving biodiversity is one arm of the quest for sustainable development - i.e. "development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
It is also one element of the work of the Rural Strategy Officer who works in the Heritage and Design Team. The Biodiversity Design Guide, to minimise the impact of new development, was published in 1999. A " Biodiversity Action Plan" for Harrogate District is in preparation and a draft publication was the subject of public consultation in September 2008. For more details on this, please telephone 01423 556594.
Countryside Management is one of the responsibilities of the Countryside Rangers who get involved in practical projects often with the help of Countryside Volunteers. The Rangers work throughout the whole District including the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (which also has 'The Young Rangers', its own AONB volunteer groups and conservation projects). Tasks include tree planting, dry stone wall repair, pond/scrub clearance and footway improvements. The Rangers give help and advise to community groups who care for Local Nature Reserves around the District and help make the countryside accessible to residents and visitors alike. |
| Harrogate District's Landscape Character Assessment is a comprehensive study of the entire District, divided into over a hundred distinct areas, each with its own special features and sensitivities. |
| Regarding forestry and woodland management, the Council is a statutory consultee to the Forestry Commission in respect of the England Woodland Grant Schemes for new planting and also on tree felling (The Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is also consulted where the land/tree is within the AONB). The Council may serve Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) relating to individual trees, groups and areas of woodland to protect them when associated with planning applications and where a landowner intends to carry out works to trees on his/her land. |
| See also Local Agenda 21 |
| See also Recycling in Harrogate District |
| See also Parks & Recreation |