Wicklow County Council launches public consultation for pre-draft biodiversity plan

As the first local authority in Ireland to declare a biodiversity and climate-change emergency, Wicklow County Council is committed to protecting the rich biodiversity of the county. The Biodiversity Action Plan will provide a five-year framework that builds on national efforts to halt the decline of species and habitats.

The plan is underpinned by the objectives of Ireland's fourth National Biodiversity Action Plan, which places emphasis on local action to address global biodiversity challenges, including the restoration of ecosystems, safeguarding key species, and promoting nature-based solutions to mitigate climate impacts.

The public are invited to assist in the preparation of the Biodiversity Action Plan and to provide feedback on the consultation process. These views will be used to inform vision, aims and actions of the plan.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Paul O'Brien said: "Our natural environment in Wicklow—from the uplands to the coastline —provides essential services, including clean water, flood prevention, and carbon sequestration. Protecting biodiversity is about ensuring that these ecosystems remain healthy and resilient. This public consultation is a chance for everyone to have their say in creating a meaningful plan to protect our natural heritage."

Details of the pre-draft paper can be found on www.wicklow.ie, through the Online Consultation Hub. Additionally, Wicklow County Council's Biodiversity Officer will hold pre-draft public consultation drop in clinics to provide guidance at the following locations. They run from 5pm to 7pm ad will be taking place at Ballwaltrim Library on Wednesday, October 9, Arklow Library on Tuesday, October 15, Wicklow library on Thursday, October 17, Blessington Library on Tuesday, October 22 and Greystones Library on Thursday, October 24.

Emer O'Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, said: "The County Wicklow Biodiversity Action Plan will align with national objectives and tailor them to the specific needs and challenges we face here in Wicklow. We want this to be a community-driven plan, and we encourage residents and stakeholders to engage fully in the consultation process to ensure the plan is comprehensive and forward-looking."

Submissions at this pre-draft stage can be made via the Online Consultation Hub, via email to or via post to the Senior Executive Officer at Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Station Road, Wicklow Town, A67 FW96.

Submissions or observations should include your name and address and, where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc. which you represent. Children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children, are particularly encouraged to make submissions or observations regarding the foregoing.