The natural heritage comprises a wide range of habitats containing important animal and plant species as well as geological features. These are protected through European and United Kingdom legislation and by a variety of non-statutory designations. This has been strengthened by the Nature Conservation Act 2004 requiring Councils to further the conservation of biodiversity.
At a national level protection is offered by the designation of a wide range of sites as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). Overlaying this designation, European Commission legislation offers further protection to sites of international importance. These are designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) under the Birds Directive. Collectively they are part of the Natura 2000 network and there are nine such sites in Ayrshire.
In addition to statutory obligations to conserve and enhance wildlife habitats and species, the EU Habitats Directive also requires the planning system to look beyond designations and encourage positive management of features of the wider countryside that form a network to support the survival of important species. An increase in the number of Local Nature Reserves and planting of woodlands in line with the provisions of the Ayrshire and Arran Woodland Strategy will play a part in improving this network and protecting habitats of importance.
Arising out of the UK Biodiversity Steering Group’s task to have nationwide coverage of Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAP),Ayrshire now has in place an LBAP in which the Councils are key partners. The LBAP’s Action Plan identifies a series of actions for key species and seven broad habitat types requiring protection and enhancement. |
The Socio-Economic Potential of the Galloway and South Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve
Ayrshire & Arran Forestry and Woodland Strategy
