From village ponds and roadside verges to parks, allotments and community green spaces, town and parish councils have the power to make nature part of everyday life. These councils sit at the heart of their communities and look after many of the places local people use and value, even small changes in how those spaces are managed can create more room for wildflowers, insects, birds and other wildlife.

This makes local councils vital partners in the ambition to secure a third of Yorkshire for nature by 2030. Our Bringing Yorkshire’s Nature Back blueprint calls for nature-positive communities and stronger connections between the people who care about wildlife and the places where nature can recover.

Town and parish councils are the first tier of local government, they are rooted in their communities, publicly accountable and led by local councillors to turn local priorities into action, supported by professional clerks and staff. The combination of democratic leadership and deep local knowledge can be a real force for nature.

To help unlock this potential, we have been working closely with the Yorkshire Local Councils Associations (YLCA), which represents more than 550 town and parish councils across North, South and West Yorkshire. Together, we have hosted practical webinars and joined YLCA training days, sharing ideas with councillors and clerks about how everyday decisions can deliver better results for wildlife.

At the latest training day in September, Jon Parkes-Withers, Public Affairs and Advocacy Lead, and Jo Rawson, Wilder Communities Manager, heard inspiring examples from councils across Yorkshire - from improving the care of a village pond to creating a wildflower area in a local park. These actions may begin in one small corner of a community, but together they can build a thriving network of habitats across the county.

Imagine what could happen if every town and parish council gave nature a little more space. A different mowing regime, a healthier pond or a patch of native flowers can all help wildlife and make local places greener, healthier and more enjoyable for everyone.

Want to help nature thrive where you live? 

Join #TeamWilder or become a Community Champion volunteer to help bring people together, inspire positive action and make your community a wilder place. Or you may want to join other communities that are taking action in ways that are peaceful, practical and positive to drive change. More information can be found here - Take Action | Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

Whether you have a large garden or a small balcony, you can also use your outside space to create stepping stones and corridors that provide your own connectivity for wildlife through urban areas, linking towns and villages with green spaces and countryside. More information can be found here - Wildlife Gardening Award | Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.