Community champions gather to support nature recovery in Amber Valley
From community gardens to rewilding projects, nature is being nurtured across Amber Valley and a recent event brought together the people behind that growing movement.
Amber Valley Borough Council proudly supported the latest Amber Valley Nature Network workshop on Friday, May 17, at the Glebe Centre in Crich, celebrating local efforts and exploring new ideas to support biodiversity.
The session was led by Councillor Amina Burslem, Chair of Amber Valley Borough Council’s Environment and Biodiversity Scrutiny Committee, and Councillor Amy Trewick, Chair of Swanwick Parish Council. Together, they welcomed attendees from across the borough to hear from guest speakers and share ideas.
The event featured a talk from Ian D. Rotherham, published author and Emeritus Professor at Sheffield Hallam University, who spoke about the vital connection between nature, health and wellbeing. Attendees also heard from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, who shared a case study of a successful nature-based project in Chesterfield.
Councillor Burslem said: "It was really positive to bring together so many dedicated community champions. It gave them the chance to share their experiences, hear from an expert, and help shape ideas for future action through the workshop.
“We’re keen to hold regular meetings of the network, giving groups the chance to support each other and share progress as their projects grow.
"We also want to encourage more people to get involved. It doesn’t have to be something huge. You could join a local community group, start looking after a patch of garden or green space, or just begin by learning more about the nature on your doorstep. Every small action helps, and together they add up to real change.”
As part of the event, attendees took part in a hands-on workshop to explore key concerns in their local areas and identify the types of support needed to strengthen the work of grassroots groups. The feedback will help inform the council’s future plans to support nature recovery and promote biodiversity across the borough.
Amber Valley Borough Council is continuing to work closely with Derbyshire County Council and other partners to develop a five-year biodiversity plan, due to be considered by Cabinet in Autumn 2025.
Events like the Amber Valley Nature Network workshop play a vital role in bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and strengthening local efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment for future generations.
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