More nature needed closer to homes campaigners say

Campaigners are calling for more “wildlife-rich” green spaces within walking distance of people’s homes, saying many residents cannot currently say they have a park, field, or woodland nearby. The Wildlife Trusts argue that spending time outdoors can improve health and wellbeing, while also helping address extreme weather, climate change, and wildlife loss. They say trees, plants, gardens, and parks should be treated as essential parts of local communities, not just land earmarked for development. The government said it is “focused” on restoring nature to give local communities “access to green spaces.”