Scottish Wildlife Trust

Like all of us in SWT I am sure you, our members, are very keen to ensure that we provide as much protection and opportunity for wildlife as possible. One really effective way to do this is to ensure that plans for development take account of biodiversity; not only at designated sites, reserves and other protected hotspots, but also in the wider countryside which is especially important if we want to maintain viable populations of birds, insects, mammals and other wildlife. Local Authorities have a statutory duty to protect and improve biodiversity and they employ people to advise them in this duty. But SWT can have great influence by pointing out where development plans might have a detrimental effect on wildlife or, just as important, how changes to development plans can maintain biodiversity in urban and rural environments.  I can assure you that local councils do pay attention to comments from SWT. So, how can we comment most effectively? Please read the accompanying SWT Planning Newsletter.  It tells you how you can wield great influence in protecting biodiversity – by becoming a planning volunteer for your local Member Centre. You will join a network of SWT planning volunteers, receive a lot of help and support and you will rapidly become very useful to both SWT and the Local Authorities. Please consider it – and let me know if you would like to volunteer by emailing me at:  roger@owen25.fsnet.co.uk

Roger Owen - Chair - Aberdeen Member Centre