Bassetlaw District Council has formally backed plans to create a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering the Humberhead Levels in the northern part of Bassetlaw.
It would be the first in the north of England and the first non-coastal location in the UK.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are internationally recognised as learning places for sustainability and aim to find local ways to help manage climate change and other global challenges.
The proposed Biosphere would focus on the Humberhead Levels, which support flood management, biodiversity recovery, and carbon storage. It is home to some of the most important natural habitats in the country, including peatlands, which need protecting and improving.
The Humberhead Levels straddles the borders of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, where rivers meet at the Humber Estuary. This amazing landscape offers significant potential to deliver many services for society, including food and fuel production, reduced flood risk and improved biodiversity.
Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity, Planning and Place, said: “Moving towards becoming the first designated UNESCO Biosphere in the north of England is an important step in our plans for protecting and enhancing our natural environment.
“The Humberhead Levels is a unique landscape shaped by years of farming, drainage, and community action. A Biosphere is another way the Council can look to deliver positive change for residents and businesses while protecting and improving our unique natural environment and helping to manage climate change.
“The proposed Biosphere will not bring any new restrictions but will create many opportunities for Bassetlaw.”
“It could help coordinate peatland restoration and flood management, support farmers’ and landowners’ access to funding, and improve nature recovery across the area, while strengthening the Humberhead Levels’ distinctive identity.
“We will continue to develop our partnerships, including with neighbouring councils, wildlife trusts, and Natural England, to ensure that a Biosphere can work for everyone.”
A formal nomination for reserve status is expected to take place in September 2026.
