Severn Trent recently welcomed Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, to Hope Valley, to see an exciting new project that will boost biodiversity across the Peak District.

On Friday 30 October Robert was given a personal tour of the scheme, which is being funded by Severn Trent and delivered in partnership with the Hope Valley Farmers Group.

The project includes plans to improve soil health across 100 hectares in the Hope Valley area, which will bring significant benefits for biodiversity above and below the ground.

This visit closely follows the launch of Severn Trent’s Great Big Nature Boost, a campaign which includes ambitious plans to improve biodiversity across the entire Midlands region. These plans include:

•    reviving 12,000 acres of land 
•    planting 1.3 million trees; and
•    restoring 2,000 km of rivers across the Severn Trent region by 2027.

Robert Largan MP said: 

“It was great to learn more about the work Severn Trent and the Hope Valley Farmers are doing to improve soil health in the Dark Peak. 

“It’s clear this is a fantastic partnership that will bring many environmental benefits to an area that’s world renowned for its natural beauty.”

Zara Frankton, Senior Catchment Management Scientist at Severn Trent, said: 

“We were delighted to welcome Robert to Hope Valley last week and explain the importance of the work we’re doing here. Healthy soil is vital for protecting biodiversity above and below the ground, supporting millions of different species. 

“It also plays a key role in sustainable food production and mitigates the impact of climate change by reducing the risk of flooding and pollutions.”