Promise kept: plan agreed to protect beauty of the Isle of Axholme

Plans to strengthen the long-term future of the historic Isle of Axholme have been formally approved by North Lincolnshire Council.

Cabinet agreed to support participation in the proposed Humberhead UNESCO Biosphere, a move that will protect the area’s unique landscape, improve flood resilience, restore nature and support farming and local livelihoods.

The decision opens the door for closer working with farmers, landowners, communities and environmental partners, and for residents to get involved in shaping projects that celebrate and protect the Isle as a living, working landscape.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is about keeping our promise to protect the Isle of Axholme, its landscape, its history and the communities who live and work here.

“This approach strengthens flood resilience and nature recovery without imposing new planning restrictions, and it gives local people a real voice in what happens next.”

The designation will not introduce new planning controls. Local decision-making remains with the council, while existing protections stay in place.

Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategy, said: “Approving this plan is an important step, but it’s only the starting point.

“Making the most of it will depend on working closely with local communities, farmers and landowners to shape what happens on the ground and ensure the Isle of Axholme thrives for the long term.”

More information on how residents, farmers and community groups can get involved will be shared in the coming months.