skip to main content
  • A
  • A
  • A
slogan-img

Local Wildlife Sites

What are Local Wildlife Sites?

Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) are some of the most ecologically important sites in the county and they are protected through the local planning system. They often support rare or threatened species and habitats that are locally important and distinctive. From flower-rich meadows to tiny, fungi-filled churchyards, majestic Chiltern Beechwoods to urban wetlands supporting important wintering bird populations, these are the wild places where nature thrives.

Why are they so valuable?

Collectively, these sites are essential for the conservation of wildlife in the UK. They are vital in acting as wildlife havens, corridors, and “stepping stones” for animals, birds and insects in isolated, intensively managed or urban environments. Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes has over 460 LWS, together amounting to nearly 7,000 ha.

Why do we need them?

The existence of many of these important sites is often due to the sympathetic and ongoing management by farmers and other landowners who are prepared to carry out sensitive habitat management. But sometimes important habitat is lost or damaged because its value is not understood.

LWS are important as they can help identify important areas, alert landowners and managers to the unique interest features on their land, and provide advice on sympathetic management.

How are Local Wildlife Sites designated?

Potential sites are identified and surveyed by BMERC surveyors, and a report is produced for the landowner and for presentation to the Local Wildlife Sites selection panel.  The panel is made up of a group of wildlife experts, county wildlife recorders and representatives from various environmental organisations and statutory bodies. The panel reviews the reports and if the site is of sufficient quality to meet the rigorous Local Wildlife Sites criteria, it is approved and designated as a Local Wildlife Site.

What does having a Local Wildlife Site mean for you?

  • Recognition that your site has a high ecological value and a history of good quality management. You receive a copy of the survey report, species list and management recommendations.
  • Your site will form part of a network of sites helping to protect wildlife and make it more resilient to climate change and human intervention.
  • LWS are non-statutory sites. There are NO legal obligations directly associated with notification as an LWS.
  • Day to day land management and agricultural operations are not affected.
  • LWS designation does NOT affect existing access rights.
  • LWS owners can often access expert advice regarding species and habitat management and up-to-date ecological data.
  • Having an LWS may be a distinct advantage when applying to agri-environment schemes or other funds for site improvements.
  • Wildlife issues are always taken into account during the planning process and LWS are recognised within the system. If the wildlife value of the land is already known this can make the whole procedure quicker and easier.

More information

The Local Wildlife Sites Project is funded and supported by the Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Natural Environment Partnership (the NEP). This partnership brings together local authorities and organisations from across the public, private, health and education sectors, as well as conservation and community organisations to champion the value of the environment in decision-making. More information about the NEP is available on their website: bucksmknep.co.uk