The search is on for a volunteer passionate about the environment to chair the Somer Valley Rediscovered Partnership and help develop its work to improve local green spaces, rivers and streams.

Somer Valley Rediscovered (SVR) aims to improve biodiversity while better connecting the Somer Valley communities to local natural spaces. It was established in 2020 as a green infrastructure partnership project led by Bath & North East Somerset Council, Wessex Water, Natural England and University of Bath.

The new chair will represent the partnership at a high level, making connections and seeking new opportunities to expand its work, as well as chairing the online quarterly meetings.

The chair will also be an ambassador for the developing programme of Somer Valley Rediscovered activities that will help to secure its long-term legacy of enhanced biodiversity, water and land management and heritage with improved access providing for people’s health and wellbeing.

Somer Valley Recovered projects may have a particular focus, such as improving water quality, habitat, or public access, but they all engage with local communities, benefiting people’s health and wellbeing through connections to nature, inspiring people to enjoy and value local natural spaces, and encouraging people to rediscover their local walks, natural environment, and heritage.

Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate emergency and sustainable travel, said: “The chair will play a key role in steering the partnership and we are hoping to attract applicants who are passionate about the Somer Valley’s natural environment and who are keen to use their influence and skills to seek new opportunities to expand its work and engage others in the care and enjoyment of the area.”

More information about the role and how to apply can be found here: https://somervalleyrediscovered.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SVR-Chair-Role-Description.pdf. For an informal discussion, contact Sarah Jackson, Green Infrastructure Programme Manager- Connecting Landscapes, on 01225 477583.

Interested candidates will be asked to send a 500-word expression of interest to [email protected] by 24 May 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a selection panel meeting on June 6, 2024.

More information about Somer Valley Rediscovered can be found at: https://somervalleyrediscovered.co.uk/about/. The Somer Valley Rediscovered Partnership includes Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, Bristol Avon Catchment Partnership, Natural England, University of Bath, and West of England Nature Partnership.