In this podcast, Natural Basingstoke's Jack is joined in his garden by Jill, leader of the charity, to discuss the key environmental challenges facing the borough of Basingstoke.

They dive into the threats posed by rapid housing development, water abstraction from local chalk aquifers, and habitat fragmentation. Jill outlines Natural Basingstoke’s vision for nature recovery, including establishing a local nature recovery forum, mapping green/blue corridors, and utilizing nature-based solutions.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Natural Basingstoke: Overview of the local charity advocacy work in the borough.
• Current Environmental Concerns: The impact of proposed thousand-home developments on water resources and local wildlife habitats.
• Water Security & Chalk Streams: Threats facing local chalk aquifers from pollution and over-abstraction, and the need for stronger protections.
• Building in Harmony with Nature: The importance of mapping green corridors and buffer zones around ancient woodlands and rivers.
• Nature-Based Solutions: Using natural infrastructure (e.g., sustainable drainage and reed beds) to tackle flooding and pollution cost-effectively.
• Action Plans & Proposals:
• Establishing a Nature Recovery Forum with local stakeholders.
• Creating a local Nature Recovery Network Map alongside development plans.
• Issuing a "Call for Sites for Nature" to identify areas for restoration.
• Recent Local Progress: Highlights from the local MP's green roundtable and recent council action on water security.
• How to Get Involved: Engaging with local representatives, screening nature documentaries, and taking small actions at home.

Connect & Contact:

• Facebook & Instagram: @NaturalBasingstoke
• Email: admin@naturalbasingstoke.org.uk

This podcast was produced by Natural Basingstoke.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com