Map Impact supports delivery of Wiltshire’s LNRS

Wiltshire has taken a major step toward reversing nature loss, adopting one of England’s most advanced Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS), powered by pioneering mapping and ecological modelling from innovative technology firm Map Impact.

The LNRS sets out a bold vision to restore and connect Wiltshire’s landscapes, ranging from world-famous chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands to fragile chalk streams, by identifying where nature recovery actions will have the greatest impact.

Map Impact supported Wiltshire Council by delivering a dynamic digital habitat map identifying corridors where restoring or enhancing natural habitats would most strengthen ecological connectivity. The model also simulates how different species might move through Wiltshire’s landscapes, helping planners and landowners target projects that make nature networks bigger, better and more joined-up. The resulting interactive map pinpoints priority areas for restoration and enhancement, helping landowners, farmers and planners to focus investment where it can deliver the biggest environmental gains.

“The Map Impact analysis has provided a clear visual explanation for everyone of what nature recovery and habitat connectivity across the landscape means,” said Alison Levy, Wiltshire LNRS Lead. “For the first time, we can visualise where action will truly make a difference, whether it’s connecting woodland corridors, restoring chalk grassland, or protecting our unique river systems.”

The interactive mapping tool also played a key role in public consultation and stakeholder engagement, allowing communities, conservation groups, and land managers to explore local priorities and contribute directly to the strategy.

Map Impact’s work ensures the Wiltshire LNRS remains a living strategy, capable of guiding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) investments, shaping local planning policy, and attracting green finance.

“Wiltshire’s LNRS shows what’s possible when data, technology and collaboration come together for nature,” said Nina Moiseeva, Map Impact’s Chief Scientist. “It’s a model that can help other counties accelerate their recovery plans and deliver real, measurable outcomes for biodiversity.”

With the LNRS now approved and guiding decisions across the county, Wiltshire stands at the forefront of England’s Nature Recovery Network, demonstrating how digital innovation and partnership can turn ambition into action.

The interactive LNRS map can be viewed here.

About Map Impact:

Map Impact believes that nature can be improved in harmony with human activity. By applying satellite data, their products deliver objective information about the performance of natural assets anywhere in the world. They are helping nature count through pioneering screening and monitoring products, combining novel technology with a highly collaborative approach to business.

Through partnerships, Map Impact are expanding the reach of their products to new audiences and filling data gaps that support a sustainable future.