AN “ambitious vision” to boost nature and drive an green economic recovery across Hampshire and the South East has been unveiled.

It aims to make havens for wildlife, support local economies, fight climate change and give local people “all the health and well-being benefits of a better natural environment”.

Spearheaded by the South Downs National Park Authority, twelve areas across the region have been identified as key areas for long-term investment in more green infrastructure.

They include South Hampshire between Southampton and Portsmouth, Winchester and parts of Sussex.

The detailed masterplan, called The People and Nature Network (PANN), has been produced in partnership with a range of organisations, including local authorities, the RSPB, Wildlife Trusts, The Woodland Trust and English Heritage.

It ties in with the Government’s 25-year Environment Plan, which sets out a number of targets, including clean air and water, thriving plants and wildlife, and adapting to climate change.

Andrew Lee, director of countryside policy and management for the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “The ethos behind this ambitious vision is that nature is working invisibly, every day, to keep our environment healthy for wildlife and people. Nature provides us with clean water, fresh air, food, and tranquil places to enjoy with our families. We can never take it for granted as our natural environment is sadly under threat from climate change and biodiversity decline, together with the fact that we’re living in one of the most crowded parts of the UK.”

Planning is in the spotlight with a Government White Paper that proposes a radical overhaul of the planning system. Areas will be divided into three: one where development is favoured, a second where it certain schemes will be acceptable and a third area which will be protected.

Conservationists argue it will open up swathes of land for development, with local people having little chance of stopping planning applications in many areas.