We are indebted to Joy Marshall for doing the research which unearthed this project. These sites do not receive any statutory protection like Sites of Special Scientic Interest (SSSIs) but are included in local planning documents (Local Development Frameworks). This restricts development that would significantly harm the site. The value of LWS designation is highlighted in Government Planning Documents (e.g.PPS9) Ed.
The Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Wildlife Sites Project is part of a national scheme to recognise and protect nature conservation sites that are important locally or at a county level, known as Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs). In the past they have been called County Wildlife Sites or Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation.
They support a diverse range of valuable habitats, such as hay meadows, ancient woodlands and chalk grasslands. All of these habitats have decreased in extent over the past 50 years due to development pressure, agricultural intensification or lack of appropriate management. Local Wildlife Sites can act as wildlife havens, providing corridors and 'stepping stones' for animals, birds and insects, and may even support uncommon species.
In the 1980s sites of potential nature conservation interest were highlighted, and are known as Biological Notification Sites (BNSs). These sites continue to be reviewed and surveyed by the project officer, in order to assess their habitat condition. BNSs that have sufficient wildlife interest are put forward to the Sites Selection Panel and are assessed against specific criteria. Sites that pass are designated as non-statutory Local Wildlife Sites and are recognised in local planning documents. The Wildlife Sites Project works with other conservation organisations to help landowners manage these sites to maintain and increase their wildlife interest.
Since 2000, two Local Wildlife Sites have been designated in Taplow Parish: Trumper’s Field and Maypole Hill (Cliveden Estate), both species-rich grasslands. The remainder of the Cliveden Estate and Taplow Court are being assessed in 2007. Other BNSs in the parish include Bristles Wood, St Nicolas' Churchyard, Wooburn Common, Sheepcote Wood Copse, Homer Wood and Amerden Gravel Pits.
The Wildlife Sites Project is part of the Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Biodiversity Partnership, a group of statutory bodies, local authorities, conservation charities, special interest and community groups. The partnership is responsible for delivering the the Local Biodiversity Action Plan, which sets out targets for enhancing and protecting priority wildlife habitats across the county. For more information visit: www.bucksinfo.net/wildlife
For information regarding the Wildlife Sites Project, contact Michelle Dublon, the project officer, on 01296 382705.
