Wicklow County Council Open Public Consultation On New Biodiversity Action Plan

The pre-draft public consultation phase for the County Wicklow Biodiversity Action Plan 2025-2030, runs until Monday 4th November.

This plan aims to address biodiversity loss across the county and foster a more sustainable and resilient natural environment.

As the first local authority in Ireland to declare a biodiversity and climate-change emergency, Wicklow County Council is committed to protecting the rich biodiversity of the county. The Biodiversity Action Plan will provide a five-year framework that builds on national efforts to halt the decline of species and habitats.

The plan is underpinned by the objectives of Ireland’s 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan, which places emphasis on local action to address global biodiversity challenges, including the restoration of ecosystems, safeguarding key species, and promoting nature-based solutions to mitigate climate impacts.

The public are invited to assist in the preparation of the Biodiversity Action Plan and to provide feedback on the consultation process. These views will be used to inform vision, aims and actions of the plan.

Details of the pre-draft paper can be found on www.wicklow.ie, through the Online Consultation Hub. Additionally, Wicklow County Council’s Biodiversity Officer will hold pre-draft public consultation drop in clinics to provide guidance at the following locations:

• Ballywaltrim Library: Wednesday, 9th October, 5pm - 7pm
• Arklow Library: Tuesday, 15th October, 5pm -7pm
• Wicklow Library: Thursday, 17th October, 5pm -7pm
• Blessington Library: Tuesday, 22nd October, 5pm - 7pm
• Greystones Library: Thursday, 24th October, 5pm - 7pm

Submissions at this pre-draft stage can be made via the Online Consultation Hub, via email to climatepolicy@wicklowcoco.ie or via post to the Senior Executive Officer at Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Station Road, Wicklow Town, A67 FW96.

Submissions or observations should include your name and address and, where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc. which you represent. Children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children, are particularly encouraged to make submissions or observations regarding the foregoing.