The Chester Sustainability Forum welcomed Chester South and Eddisbury MP Aphra Brandreth MP to its January meeting for a discussion on the future of land use and biodiversity. With an academic background in environmental economics, a decade of experience working for DEFRA, and her new role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Shadow DEFRA Team in Parliament, the MP spoke about how she is committed to promoting environmental issues in Cheshire and in Parliament.
The Chester Sustainability Forum, a non-political group open to all parties and organisations with an interest in sustainability, hosted over 35 attendees at its meeting, including representatives from environmental and sustainability groups, local councillors, and government agencies. The discussion addressed the complex demands on land use, including housing, food production, energy, and biodiversity. The MP highlighted the importance of balancing these factors in decision-making processes for major projects.
Among the speakers was Charlie Steer of Grosvenor Farms, who shared how their operations have successfully increased biodiversity, reduced carbon emissions, and improved soil carbon sequestration, all while maintaining food production. The representative noted that farms of all sizes have the potential to enhance environmental sustainability while improving financial performance.
Chester Zoo also provided an update on their work to enhance biodiversity within the city and surrounding areas. Simon Dowell, the Zoo’s Science Director, reported on recent discussions with DEFRA Minister Mary Creagh and plans for introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to reduce litter and waste. He added how delighted Chester Zoo is to be supporting the Government in taking action to tackle pollution and support nature recovery.
Niall Macfadyen, Greenpeace speaker and Forum Chair, asked Aphra Brandreth if she would raise environmental issues on behalf of Forum members and constituents in the House of Commons. The MP expressed her willingness to do so on matters of mutual concern and said she would take on board the concerns and opportunities raised by the different organisations at the meeting.
Commenting after the meeting, the MP said: "It was inspiring to see so many people engaged in discussions about biodiversity. The impressive turnout in the room demonstrates the depth of feeling and dedication to sustainability within our community. I’m grateful to the Chester Sustainability Forum for inviting me and for their ongoing work to protect our environment."
"I look forward to working further with the Chester Sustainability Forum and the many organisations committed to our environment that I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. I would encourage anybody in Cheshire who cares about these issues to get involved with the Forum and to share their ideas on working together to make our communities an even better place to live.”
For more information about Chester Sustainability Forum, please contact Secretary, Martin Preston at [email protected].
If you are a Chester South and Eddisbury constituent wishing to raise environmental concerns with Aphra Brandreth MP, she can be reached at [email protected].
