IN the light of the proposed axing of the ranger service in St Helens I would ask that the council carefully considers the potential loss of such an action, despite the climate of austerity in the face of savage funding cuts.


In the 1980s St Helens was ground-breaking in its approach to greenspace, with the council’s 1986 Policy for Nature spearheading future policy and practice throughout the UK.

The policy was simple – it asserted that greenspace and wildlife was vital, not just for nature conservation in itself, but for people, the image and the regeneration of the town. 


It recognised the town had not only important remnant biodiverse spaces, but that the enormous impact of diverse industries and transport networks had produced a valuable legacy of greenspace rich in wildlife; greenspace that is rooted in the town’s history and culture.

Furthermore these spaces can form a network for both wildlife and people that links the countryside to the heart of the town. 


Conceptually, this policy is still as relevant as in 1986.

Nature should be at the heart of regeneration plans for the borough, and is fundamental to a sustainable future; it should be protected, developed and enjoyed.

The ranger service is in a unique position to realise such goals. Not only do they have skills and knowledge to protect and enhance our biodiversity, but they are able to interpret nature and enable people to enjoy our green assets.

Without experienced people on the ground our biodiversity will be under threat, our green assets underdeveloped, educational and leisure opportunities not realised, potential visitors lost and the town and its people will be poorer. 


Sally Edmondson