Bradford Council's Environment Committee voted unanimously to explore and implement a heather conservation programme on Ilkley Moor consisting of cutting. The decision was made following the Council accepting evidence presented by Ban Bloodsports on Ilkley Moor (“BBIM”) outlining significant environmental harm caused by burning – a practice used by hunters to increase grouse numbers for shooting -, including posing a threat to red and amber listed birds, reducing biodiversity, air and water quality and degrading blanket bog. Whilst burning has been retained, it will only be permitted where it can be clearly demonstrated there is no other option available. Luke Steele, Spokesperson for Ban Bloodsports on Ilkley Moor, comments: “Heather burning causes significant environmental damage to the uplands, including posing a threat to protected birds, degrading blanket bog, decreasing air and water quality and reducing biodiversity. This has for the first time been accepted by Bradford Council. Steele continues, “We welcome the Environment Committee's decision to explore and implement a heather conservation programme based on cutting and only allow burning where it can be clearly demonstrated there is no other option available.” BBIM wishes to thank all of our supporters who took action on this issue by participating in our e-lobby in the run-up to the meeting.