CPRE Nottinghamshire is the local branch of the CPRE national countryside charity, dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and protecting the rural landscapes of Nottinghamshire. From the historic remnants of Sherwood Forest to the rolling farmland of the Trent Valley, the organization works tirelessly to ensure that the county's countryside remains a vibrant, beautiful resource for everyone to enjoy.
As development pressures mount across the East Midlands, CPRE Nottinghamshire acts as an essential voice for the environment, advocating for a planning system that respects nature, supports rural communities, and prioritizes sustainable growth.
CPRE Nottinghamshire operates on the principle that the countryside is a vital asset for our health, our food security, and our response to the climate crisis. Their work is focused on several key strategic areas:
The Green Belt is the county’s most effective defense against urban sprawl. CPRE Nottinghamshire campaigns vigorously to protect these "green lungs" that prevent the merging of towns and cities. By keeping these areas open, they ensure that urban residents always have quick access to fresh air and nature.
The charity is a leading advocate for urban regeneration. They argue that Nottinghamshire’s housing needs should be met by developing derelict or underused urban sites—brownfield land—rather than building on "Greenfield" pastures. This approach saves the countryside while simultaneously helping to revitalize town centers and city neighborhoods.
Nottinghamshire is home to some of the UK’s most iconic woodland. CPRE Nottinghamshire works to protect the setting of Sherwood Forest and other ancient woodlands from inappropriate development. They recognize that these areas are not just tourist attractions but critical habitats for biodiversity and significant carbon sinks.
The organization supports the transition to renewable energy but advocates for a "land-sensitive" approach. This means prioritizing solar panels on rooftops and warehouses rather than covering productive agricultural land with solar arrays. They also support local farmers in transitioning to more nature-friendly, "regenerative" practices that restore soil health and wildlife.
One of the most valuable roles CPRE Nottinghamshire plays is as a guide for local people. The planning system can be daunting and complex; the charity provides:
Planning Expertise: Helping local residents and Parish Councils understand how to effectively respond to planning applications and Local Plans.
Campaigning Tools: Mobilizing public support to protect specific local sites from unsustainable development.
Dark Skies Advocacy: Campaigning against light pollution to ensure that rural Nottinghamshire retains its dark starry skies, which is vital for both human wellbeing and nocturnal wildlife.
For many years, CPRE Nottinghamshire has been well-known for organizing the Best Kept Village Competition. This initiative is about more than just aesthetics; it encourages community pride, fosters local volunteering, and highlights the importance of maintaining the unique character of Nottinghamshire’s rural settlements.
CPRE Nottinghamshire believes that we don't have to choose between progress and the environment. By planning wisely, we can have the homes and infrastructure we need while still waking up to the sound of birdsong and the sight of open fields. By supporting CPRE Nottinghamshire, you are helping to ensure that the "Greenwood" legacy of the county is preserved for generations to come.
