Published: Tuesday, 8th February 2022
A new chairman has been appointed to the Kent Nature Partnership (KNP), marking the start of a pivotal year.
Hosted by Kent County Council (KCC), the body has worked since 2012 to collaborate with organisations in the county to find ways to recover nature and ensure it thrives in the future.
The post was left vacant after former frontline GP, Dr Caroline Jessel, announced she would be standing down in December after 10 years in the role.
Matthew Balfour was selected to take over earlier this month and will begin to lead work focusing on how the new Environment Act will translate into local change.
Protecting and enhancing the nature around us
Mr Balfour said: “I would like to pay tribute to Caroline for the work she has done in the last 10 years to significantly drive the Kent Nature Partnership forward to change attitudes and the way people think about their environment. With the forthcoming implementation of the Environment Act, it is crucial our work helps residents, businesses and visitors to Kent know how we can protect and enhance the nature around us.”
Critical time to act for biodiversity
Leader of Medway Council, and Kent Nature Partnership Board member, Cllr Alan Jarrett said: “I am delighted that Matthew has been selected as chairman for the Kent Nature Partnership and I am looking forward to working with him to ensure nature across Medway continues to thrive. I would also like to thank Caroline for her hard work over the last 10 years. This is a critical time to act for biodiversity and take the steps needed to secure our natural environment for future generations and champion the natural world.”
The environment is important for our health, wealth and happiness
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Susan Carey, said: “Matthew brings to this role a wealth of experience and a real understanding of the importance of our environment to our health, wealth and happiness. I thank Dr Caroline Jessel for her real contribution to Kent’s environment and she leaves us well placed to do even more through the work of the Kent Nature Partnership.”