Landguard Strategy 2010 – 2015 Vision Statement

The Partnership aims to ensure that Landguard peninsula is managed in a sustainable manner, contributing to the nationally important environmental conservation, cultural heritage, educational resources and economic prosperity of the area and adding to the quality of life and enjoyment of the local community and visitors. Executive Summary 3

Contents

(i) VISION STATEMENT 2 (ii) FOREWORD 4 Statement by Chairman of the Partnership Andy Smith Cllr (iii) PURPOSE OF THE STRATEGY 4 1 Executive summary 5 2 Strategic Objectives 8 3 Priorities 2010/2020 12 4 Factors influencing delivery 17 5 5 Year Work programme and annual work plan 19 6 Mechanisms for delivery 21 7 Monitoring and review 23

Appendices

(i) Context 24 (ii) Location Plan 27 (iii) Plan of tenure 28 (iv) SSSI Citation 29 (v) SAM designation 30 (vi) Statutory designations 31 (vii) Byelaws 32

Author Esther Mander - Landguard Project Officer 2009/2011

Front cover picture: Landguard © Mike Page 4 Landguard Partnership Strategy

Foreword by the Chairman of Landguard Partnership

The Landguard Strategy has been prepared by the Landguard Partnership to provide a long term framework for the future management and development of this highly valued coastal peninsula.

The Strategy recognises the very special qualities of Landguard and the unique inter-relationships between history, nature and commerce all of which are of importance locally, nationally and internationally. In the coming years visitors to the peninsula will benefit from a wide range of improvements which are aimed at increasing enjoyment whilst at the same time safeguarding the very qualities that have attracted so many people to visit in the past.

The Strategy includes an agreed vision for the peninsula, a variety of objectives to enable the vision to be delivered and an action plan that details the work that all of the partners will be undertaking either individually or jointly to fulfil these objectives in the next 10 years.

The following organisations are represented within the Landguard Partnership and endorse this Management Strategy:

English Heritage Landguard Fort Trust

Felixstowe History & Museum Society Natural England

Felixstowe Town Council Port of Felixstowe

Harwich Haven Authority Suffolk Coastal District Council

Landguard Conservation Trust Suffolk County Council

Purpose of the Strategy

The Landguard Partnership was formed to provide all involved organisations and interested parties with a means to better manage and develop the area. This strategy aims to provide a strong focus to help direct future developments whilst further improving coordination between all the partners involved.

The long term success of the Partnership requires a strategic view that recognises both the context of Landguard within the future development of the Felixstowe Peninsula and its importance as a major tourist attraction.

The Partnership and its constituent members will be able to use the strategy to assist in sourcing and securing inward investment for future management and development and to link with other initiatives within Felixstowe and wider Suffolk. Executive Summary 5

1 Executive Summary

Landguard Peninsula (appendix i) is located at the southerly most point of the town of Felixstowe within the county of Suffolk. It covers an area of 46ha and lies immediately to the south east of the Port of Fe- lixstowe, the premier container port in the UK (app ii).

The area is managed under a joint agreement by the Landguard Partnership which is comprised of all the landowners and other organisations that have a vested interest in the Peninsula - (app iii).

The historical and natural interests of the area are recognised by three distinct national designations; Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI)(app iv), Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM)(app v) and a Local Nature Reserve (LNR)(app vi).

There are also five specific attractions on site, • The John Bradfield Viewing Area • Landguard Fort • Felixstowe Museum, housed in the Submarine Mining Establishment • Landguard Bird Observatory occupying Right Battery • Landguard Nature Reserve (LGNR)

The LGNR is categorised as Coastal Vegetated Shingle, which is recognised as a globally rare habitat. The peninsula is a very important landfall for migratory birds using it as a vital re-fuelling point on their long journeys; it is also the only recorded British site of Woody Fleabane. There is also a significant number of ‘Red Data List’ species on the site. The Landguard Bird Observatory fulfils an important role in recording data on the natural history of Landguard. The Coastal Vegetated Shingle habitat also supports over 400 species of plants including a number that are locally or nationally rare. One species, Stinking Goosefoot, a schedule 8 plant, is found in less than ten places in Britain.

Landguard Peninsula is also known for its military history which dates back to the reign of Henry the VIII, who built the first Fort on this site. Since then the peninsula has had a strategic importance in the defence

Felixstowe Museum 6 Landguard Partnership Strategy

of the country until the 1950’s when the military finally left. The heritage left behind is impressive with one of the last fully intact forts in the country and numerous extensions and outbuildings which all played a part in protecting England from invasion. The Felixstowe Museum which displays many artefacts detailing the history of Landguard and Felix- stowe is housed in these outbuildings.

One of the most prominent neighbours of Land- guard Peninsula is the Port of Felixstowe; this is the largest container port in the Britain and one of the largest in Europe. The juxtaposition of this huge commercial industry with the delicate and fragile nature of Landguard Peninsula adds to the uniqueness and interest of the peninsula for visitors.

The Landguard Partnership is committed to ensur- Yellow Lichen - Xanthoria parietina ing that Landguard Peninsula retains the delicate balance between: • History • Nature • Commerce

Key points of focus for the Landguard Strategy are: • Education, • Conservation • Interpretation • Public access

The aim of improving educational services and fa- Cinnabar Moth Caterpillar - Tyria jacobaeae cilities is to provide comprehensive and overarch- ing educational programme for all age groups from primary school to post graduate and beyond. An education centre will be a key component in deliv- ering such a programme.

Conservation is a key consideration in the future management of Landguard incorporating both the historical and natural interests. This can be achieved by a combination of practical management, the provision of information and a day-to- day interaction with the visiting public. Visitor management will be a crucial focal point of the strategy to ensure that any increase in visitor numbers will not become detrimental to the conservation of all elements of the site, and instead provide a stronger case for increased value and a better approach to how important key attractions are conserved. Executive Summary 7

Interpretation of the historical and natural interests is essential to highlight both the sensitivity and importance of the peninsula. A co-ordinated approach to interpretation will provide benefits to both visitors and the partner organisations responsible for managing their attractions. The overall interpretation of the site will aim to provide visitors with more information and create an environment of interest, awe and exploration.

The management and development of access will be carefully considered to ensure that increasing visitor numbers do not become detrimental to the conservation of the peninsula. Improvements to car parking and public transport services will be a key element within the strategy, increasing the public services to access Landguard and also development of the Harwich Foot-Ferry will enable better management of visitors and provide increased service to the local community and tourist alike.

The development of a visitor centre and a new viewing area will be pivotal to the success of the strategy providing a hub where visitors will be given an overview of the peninsula and all of its attractions. Finally the strategy addresses the marketing and publicity required to raise awareness of the whole peninsula, ensuring that visitors arrive with clear and realistic expectations of what the peninsula has to offer.

View from the Radar Tower

The Landguard Strategy details the vision and ambition of the Landguard Partnership to deliver substantial but also beneficial changes to the peninsula for the local and tourist community who use and visit the area. It also aims to provide the overall aims which the partnership will consistently deliver followed by the main priorities for the first 5 years of the Partnerships Strategy. 8 Landguard Partnership Strategy

Strategic Objectives 2 The following objectives detail the main strategic focus for the Partnership up to the 10 year review.

2.1 education

2.1.1 developing co-ordinated educational provision

The education objective which includes the development of an education centre and an educational programme to cover the majority of age groups and abilities is a key development focus. This will use the available resources on and around the peninsula and link with other governmental initiatives for educational reform. The Partnership will work closely with other educational organisations to develop and provide a comprehensive skills centre and programme and provide a route to assist the young people of Felixstowe and Suffolk to attain further and higher education, work experience and apprenticeships.

2.1.2 increasing access to arts and cultural activities

An arts theme for events is a key focus of the Landguard Partnership and will enable increased joint working between the organisations. This focus will not limit the type of events which can be staged at Landguard but will provide a strong working link between the organisations. The Fort Trust has a well established arts programme of events currently in place. This will be expanded to included: the Landguard Bird Observatory (LBO), Felixstowe Museum and History Society (FMHS), Landguard Nature Reserve (LGNR). Joint events will be held through out the open season.

2.2 interpretation - developing an interpretation strategy for the whole peninsula

A cohesive and holistic interpretation strategy will be devised and implemented at Landguard. The management plan will address the need for clearer and better interpretation on the LGNR but there also needs to be increased signage across the peninsula for the other attractions and to highlight to visitors what is available. An interpretation strategy will be devised and submitted to the Partnership for approval.

New cranes for Felixstowe Dock Strategic Objectives 9

2.3 public access - improving access to the peninsula and managing visitor numbers to reduce adverse impact.

Visitor management and access management are key issues to be addressed. The developments which are planned at Land- guard will increase the number of visitors and therefore the impact on the peninsula. A carefully planned visitor management programme will be implemented to ensure that any future effect is minimised – examples such as Minsmere Nature Reserve need to be studied and relevant elements of management implemented at Landguard. Careful consideration needs to be given to the car parking issues at Landguard. In- creased signage and management of visitors directing them to use Manor Terrace Hawthorn - Crataegus monogyna as the main car park at the peninsula will relieve some of the pressure experienced at view point car park. This will be a short term solution until the visitors centre and subsequent new car parking area have been developed.

2.4 conservation - Protecting the sites’ uniqueness

2.4.1 The need for protection

• Maintaining the SSSI in favourable condition Common Vetch - Vicia sativa • Maintaining the Fort condition • Maintaining museum artefacts • Increase of public access i.e. coastal access improvement • Increased and managed use of the Nature Reserve • Maintaining visual access and close links to the Port and maritime activities.

Much of the Landguard Peninsula is designated a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Local Nature Reserve (LNR), also the majority of the peninsula is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) (app v). This highlights a need for high levels of protection to be applied to the site and for account to be taken of this 10 Landguard Partnership Strategy

when development or management works take place.

Maintenance of the SSSI in favourable condition will be incorporated into the management plan for the LGNR. The Fort is operated on behalf of English Heritage by Landguard Fort Trust. Under agreement they act as custodians and managers of the Fort and ensure it is kept in a condition which allows public access. The Felixstowe History and Museum Society also have an agreement with English Heritage for the building they occupy. The preservation of artefacts held in the museum in a damp- free optimum environment is the responsibility of the FHMS. The Coastal Access Ini- tiative which aims to increase access via a Hermit Crab continuous coastal path is currently being implemented and this will work in conjunction with developments surrounding interpretation upon the LGNR. This may lead to increased use of the Nature Reserve but the management plan will identify how to cope with increased access pressures with minimal detrimental impact to the sensitive nature of the area. The location and position of the site and its close proximity to the Port and excellent visual access to the maritime and shipping activities within the estuary makes it one of the only locations in the UK which provides such a distinc- Elder in Flower - Sambucus nigra tive visitor experience. This experience is a major element to the success of the peninsula, and, is a vital tourist attraction for Felixstowe.

2.4.2 Research and Monitoring

In the early stages of implementation of the strategy all aspects of current usage of the peninsula will be researched to provide a full and up-to-date picture of the current numbers and reasons for visiting. This data will be used to determine the implementation of future projects and the direction of Partnership delivery. Monitoring will be carried out to assess the impacts of the developments and identify changes in visitor usage over time. Strategic Objectives 11

2.6.3 Balancing protection and development

• Impact assessment of developments • Market research • Public consultations

All significant developments on site will require either an impact assessment or feasibility study. The studies will include market research and public consultations and will identify all options to ensure the protection of the site. The work programme will quantify the current methods in place to protect the valuable assets of the site and determine their effectiveness applying new ideas if necessary. Incorporation of the site specific needs for protection against the need for development will be thoroughly investigated before the Partnerships, full support is granted.

2.5 ensuring sustainability

The implementation of any developments identified within the strategy must be sustainable. This will require the identification of revenue streams and sources of funding. Without this, the scope for the Strategy to deliver significant improvements will be severely constrained and development of future facilities maybe limited. A full and comprehensive funding research document will be developed within 2010/11 work year which will require the full input from all partners.

Bumble bee on Vipers Bugloss - Echium vulgare Estuary sea defences 12 Landguard Partnership Strategy

Priorities for 2010 - 2015 3 The following priorities detail the focus of the Partnership for future development over the first 5 years of the Strategy.

3.1 education

3.1.1 Educational programme

Education is a key focus for the Landguard Partnership. This element of Landguard will incorporate primary to post graduate level education, utilising links with universities for research posts, with the aim of providing out-sourced education for all ages. This can cover a wide range of top- ics and is not limited in scope by location; some examples include art, drama, film, maritime studies, science and history. The utilisation of current educational programmes delivered at Landguard will be a key component of the delivery of the future education programme.

3.1.2 Education Centre

The development of a comprehensive education centre and educational programme is a future project, linking with other projects in Felixstowe and Suffolk. The Education Centre will create a unique educational facility to enhance off-campus learning for schools, further and higher education and adult learning which will provide better opportunities, increasing training and provide education for all. A field studies centre will be a key component of the education delivery. funding for this will be investigated through the funding strategy.

3.2 events and Activities

3.2.1 Landguard Arts Events

The Landguard Partnership will continue to focus on art events and collaboration with artists in genres. All events will require a focus on the interpretation and increasing awareness of the peninsula with the aim of broadening the attractions and incorporating the whole peninsula, allowing increased publicity and a heightened awareness of what the peninsula has to offer.

Any developments in the arts and displays at Landguard will be assessed to ensure that the effect

View of Trinity Terminal Priorities 2010-2015 13

on the sensitive nature of the area is not jeopardised by increased visitor numbers. Management of this will link with the management strategy for visitor access.

3.2.2 Landguard Joint Events

An inclusive programme of events will be developed which will link the current attractions and provide more opportunities for joint event planning and delivery.

3.3 interpretation

Interpretative materials at Landguard are mainly located on the Nature reserve. These are in a poor state of repair and are out of date. The whole peninsula would benefit from a more cohesive and current interpre- Peacock Butterfly - Inachis io tive structure. Applying this on and around the site requires both English Heritage and Natural England consents. There are only a limited number of public highway signs directing visitors to the peninsula, in general they are inconsistent and confusing. In- creased signage along the A14 and through Felixstowe would allow visitors more ease in finding Landguard. The Partnership will aim to increase the interpretation of all as- pect of the peninsula and upgrade signage to improve the visitor experience.

3.4 Marketing and Promotion Landguard Fort

One of the most effective ways to market the peninsula and all attractions within it is to develop the website and maintain this as a vibrant and interactive site which draws people in for a taste of Landguard and encourages them to visit in person. Currently each attraction manages their own marketing and promotion and this is depend- ant on funds available. The marketing of Landguard will come out of the Partnership budget. The benefits of a joint marketing approach will included, better use of resources, developments of new markets, new audiences and ultimately a more cohesive approach to the peninsula. 14 Landguard Partnership Strategy

3.5 Facilities

3.5.1 Visitor Centre

The new visitor centre will provide a hub for the local community and tourist alike who visit the peninsula, allowing them to see what the area has to offer and guiding them to all the other attractions on site. it will also focus on elements of the education on site in conjunction with the education centre.

3.5.2 Optimising capacity for parking

The amount of parking at the peninsula is limited by the land available. Under the section 106 agreement the port is releas- Trinity terminal ing more land alongside Viewpoint Road for a larger car parking facility at Landguard. Management of the space available and an emergency management plan for any inci- dent i.e. a rare bird sighting, will enable better use of the resources and optimise the capacity to ensure that the parking is suf- ficient for all events.

3.5.3 New developments

Under the section106 agreement, the Port of Felixstowe are required to construct Landguard Groyne built in the late 1900’s to stabilise the visitor centre mentioned in 3.5.1. The the harbour entrance viewing area will be positioned adjacent to the visitor centre. A ferry berth will be constructed on the estuary side of the visitors centre. An education centre will be developed to provide a centre of excellence in education complimenting current educational initiatives in place.

3.6 Access

3.6.1 Improving transport links

Increasing the transport links serving the peninsula will be crucial to allow better management and direction of visitors. The cost of development and implementation will be determined before any projects are taken forward. These will include but are not limited to: Priorities 2010-2015 15

• Bus Route to the south end of view point road • Taxi service to link with ferry times • Increased ferry service • Cycle routes

Harwich is a major route for commercial ferries to the continent. Better transport links between Landguard and Harwich can help capitalise on potential customers from the continental ferries, thus increasing visitor numbers to the attractions and usage of the visitors centre

3.6.2 Visitor Management

The peninsula currently has a high level of visitors based on a vehicle survey done in 2004. These visitors mainly stay within the John Bradfield (JB) viewing area, however this provides a skewed representation of the visitors to Landguard, by giving high overall visitor numbers but not differ- entiating between where the visitors actually spend their time once on the peninsula. The biggest attraction is the shipping which can be viewed from the JB viewing area, within close proximity are the other main attractions at the peninsula. In line with developments visitor numbers will need to be monitored and assessed to determine the increasing levels and the impact these may have on site. Vehicle surveys will be implemented in years 2-5 of the work programme and a full investigative report will be produced within the first two years of the programme to determine the full picture of visitor numbers and usage of the site. Access to the attractions and to the site itself will be a priority in the future of the peninsula.

Common Blue (male and Female) - Polyommatus icarus Gatekeeper - Pyronia tithonus 16 Landguard Partnership Strategy

3.7 Future funding - developing a funding strategy

In order to realise the long-term aspirations of the Partnership, future resources need to be secured, management of core cost taken in to account and revenue streams developed. One of the main principles in providing a constant revenue stream comes from visitor charging. Without this self-generated revenue the peninsula will need to rely on inward investment and identifying other funding sources to provide the funds which will allow continuation of all capital projects implemented and the future of the peninsula as a viable tourist attraction. It will be the responsibility of all partners to highlight sources of funding and to provide Wild Onion / Crow Garlic - Allium vineale assistance in securing any available funding identified.

3.8 LNR/SAM Management

Management

The peninsula is split into a number of designated areas; the key management focus will be on:

• Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) • Local Nature Reserve (LNR) Landguard Nature Reserve interpretation board • Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM)

A management plan will be written for the 10yrs to cover the LNR. This will incorporate the management of the SSSI, keep- ing the site in favourable condition. Areas of the SAM which are under management agreements between the trusts involved and English Heritage will be covered by these agreements. The area of SAM which covers the LNR will be covered by the management plan to the extent of conserving and where possible enhancing what is currently on site. Factors influencing delivery 17

4 Factors influencing delivery

4.1 designations

Site Specific designations / agreements

• SSSI • SAM • LNR • Land ownership • Lease agreements • Opening hours • Individual operation

Landguard Peninsula has attained a number of specific designations (app v) which influence the management of the site. All developments and projects which directly affect the specific requirements of each designation will need to be under the full agreement of the Partnership before com- mencement. All requirements relating to the designations will be complied with implicitly. Other elements involve specific agreements and operation of the attractions on site. These are not under the influence of the Partnership and will be run as the individual controlling partner determines is the best course of action.

4.2 Managing public expectation/ increasing awareness

• Awareness raising • Involvement • Incorporation of needs and wants • Increase ownership

The general public’s appreciation of Landguard is currently quite limited and many of the regu- lars who visit do so simply to walk dogs or use the viewing area. This changes somewhat when

Harbour Master Bungalow and Radar Tower 18 Landguard Partnership Strategy

there are specific events run at the Fort but in general the knowledge people have of Landguard is limited to a few childhood experiences. The need to increase awareness of the forthcoming developments and increased facilities is crucial to their success. Public involvement and public consultation are also key requirements of the strategy and of the Partnership. Managing public expectation is a crucial tool in the full development of Landguard as a viable and beneficial tourist attraction within Fe- lixstowe.

4.3 partnership

Increased partnership working is essential if the strategic objectives are to be deliv- Gun emplacements on the Reserve ered. Available time and financial con- straints could have a very strong bearing on progress. It is important to try and ensure that, as much as possible, the services and facilities provided at Landguard should be self-financing within 10yrs. Crucial to achieving this is the delivery of the new viewing area, visitor centre and education services. The need to link with other initiatives is also imperative to ensure that the best use is made of available resources. Public support generated through a sound consultation process will also help in the delivery of the objectives. Common Poppy - Papaver rhoeas 4.4 Access to funding

Current secured levels of funding will run until 2018, within this time a sustainable revenue stream will need to be identified and adopted. Other sources of funding need to be identified and utilised, however access to this type of funding may be limited due to the partnerships current position as only a legally agreed but not a constituted body. A future aim to increase potential access to funding will be to legally constitute the partnership. Work Programme 19

5 5 Year Work Programme

5.1 Pre Strategy • Project Officer and Ranger Employed • Development of Harbour Master Bungalow into Ranger accommodation and office space • Draft LNR Management plan written • Draft Strategy written for public consultation • Final Strategy adopted

5.2 Year 1-3 2010/2012 Strategy Forward Planning • Prepare a comprehensive funding strategy • Develop a volunteer base for the peninsula Protecting the sites uniqueness • LNR Management plan adopted • Initial implementation of management plan • Fence-line removal, scrub clearance, surveys Improving Public access • Installation of new parking area • Improve public transport links • Upgrade national cycle route 51 • Visitor Survey and Vehicle monitoring progressed • Finalise visitor centre/ferry berth/view area options • Develop a marketing plan Development of Interpretation Strategy • Interpretation strategy devised funding sources identified • Joint events programme developed • Arts events programme developed Developing co-ordinated educational provision • Field studies Centre feasibility study implemented

5.3 Year 4 & 5 2013/2014 Protecting the sites uniqueness • Review LNR management Plan • Implement further management plan objectives relevant to development Improving Public Access • Review Visitor Centre Operations • Viewing area and visitor centre construction underway • Ferry Berth construction underway Development of interpretation strategy • Interpretation project implement peninsula wide • Visitor centre interpretation designed • Review interpretation strategy Developing co-ordinated educational provision • 5 yearly review of strategy end 2014 • Review funding strategy 20 Landguard Partnership Strategy

5 Annual Work Plan 2011

• Visitor survey detailing: Reason for visit Type of user Age of user Distance travelled Numbers of vehicles Occurrence

To determine the spread of visitor and number distribution across the whole peninsula ascertaining the level of interest in each attraction.

• Finalise Visitor Centre and Ferry Berth - Agree on option and take forward with all partners in agreement.

• Undertake Field Studies Centre Feasibility Study – Look at location options and linked work potential with other educational facilities.

• Develop initial proposal for an interpretation project for the entire peninsula – Aim to access HLF funding increasing visitor experience.

• Develop a joint art events program – Set up an art development group to develop the programme of art event for a peninsular wide event programme.

• Increase promotion and marketing of the site – develop a marketing strategy to promote new and future developments.

Estuary view Mechanisms for Delivery 21

6 Mechanisms for Delivery

6.1 Funding and Resources

• Long term security of funding • Identifying methods of sustainable funding to continue after section106 agreement ends • Determine which projects require outside investment

The Landguard Strategy will provide a structured approached to achieving the environmental, social and economic aims of the Partnership, thereby increasing the balance between, the protection of the natural environment, community access and involvement and a sustainable economic future. To enable these aims to be successful, long term financial security at a level which allows future development and the realisation of ideas and ambitions is essential. This necessarily requires joint planning and co-ordination of activities between partners in order to maximise resources and available revenue, and for them to assist in the careful planning of any direction decided upon. There will be an annual review of the work plan and projects to be included. Partners will provide any relevant information from their respective business plans for incorporation in to the annual work plan in order to ensure the maximum benefits are derived from the resources available and to develop Partnership opportunities.

6.2 enabling community involvement

• Developing an interest/commitment from the community • Management of community involvement • Managing community expectations • Increase community ownership • Development of a cohesive volunteer base

Landguard Fort and Right Battery Landguard Nature Reserve 22 Landguard Partnership Strategy

Ultimately the site will not work as a tourist attraction without community involvement. The aim is to build a successful volunteer base helping to increase the ownership of the area by the community and allowing future generations to realise the importance of the Peninsula. Marketing, targeted events and a focus on gaining the involvement of the community from all age groups will be developed initially during years 2-5, but this will be an ongoing requirement of the work plan to ensure a high level of volunteer involvement. They will assist in all areas of the peninsula and provide support and assistance to allow the attractions on site more flexibility within their individual management structures and day to day running. A ‘Friends of Landguard’ group to increase community involvement and enable more local contribution to the developments at Landguard is to be created. Peregrine - Falco peregrinus 6.3 developments - sustainability

The projects planned for increasing the attractions and facilities at Landguard will need to have the elements of sustainability fully covered. Projects will need to ensure they meet the majority of the criteria listed below before they will be endorsed or managed by the Partnership

Criteria for assessing sustainability

• Encourages local action or decision making • Links local production and local consumption • Increases employment/training • Encourages cycling and walking or use of public transport • Reduces local pollution of air, land, water and noise • Maximises energy efficiency • Reduces waste • Re-uses or conserves old buildings • Improves access for the disabled • Provides community benefits • Encourages conservation of biodiversity and heritage

6.4 employment of Staff

Currently the partnership employs a Project Manager to co-ordinate the Partnership, a Ranger for management of the Local Nature Reserve and jointly funds the Landguard Operations and Development Officer with the Fort Trust. There will be a need to develop other posts; consequently future employment is a factor to consider as the delivery of developments and increased facilities is realised. For the maximum potential of these developments to be achieved a team of staff will be needed to co-ordinate deliver and manage the new Landguard Peninsula.

Monitoring and Review 23

7 Monitoring and Review

7.1 The Landguard Partnership consists of relevant organisations and agencies who have come together under a legally binding agreement. The Partnership holds three different group meetings namely: The working Group - consisting of partners who deliver on the ground and propose project ideas to: The Steering Group - This group discuss issues and agree proposals which are then delivered to: The Partnership Committee - the committee provide final approval over budget expenditure and project delivery.

The partnership is responsible of the ongoing monitoring and review of projects and activites at the peninsula.

7.2 develop monitoring processes for progress and results

• Identify targets and timescales • Develop reporting methods • Continuous monitoring of projects • Assess success of projects • Determine timescale of review

Any project will have a stringent monitoring and review structure built in to the proposal assessing its continuing viability and success. Key targets, milestones and timescales will be highlighted and measured on a quarterly basis. This will help to ensure long term security and sustainability. The initial reporting method will be in the form of quarterly reports, which will provide a continuous monitoring process.

Once projects are implemented a 6 monthly review will take place to determine their success and viability. Monitoring is essential to identifying and determining the progress and direction of the Partnership. The lead organisation for each project will be responsible for reporting to the steering group and subsequently to the Committee, providing updates in accordance with the monitoring processes agreed. Projects will need to relate to the strategic objectives as set out in the strategy and be included within the annual work plan decided at the start of each year. Exhibit at Felixstowe Museum 24 Landguard Partnership Strategy

APPENDICES i Context

1. cONTEXT

1.1 Landguard Peninsula covers an area of 46ha (113.6 acres) and is situated immediately to the south of the town of Felixstowe. The peninsula lies immediately south east of The Port of Felixstowe, the premier container port in the UK.

1.2 Access to the area is readily gained from Felixstowe along Langer Road (A154) which joins Carr Road at the junction with Manor Road. Alternatively the A14 trunk road, which bypasses the town, provides access to the Port of Felixstowe then joins the A154 immediately to the north of Landguard (app ii).

1.3 The Land is in the ownership of a variety of organisations namely Harwich Haven Authority, Port of Felixstowe Ltd, Dept Culture Media and Sport (English Heritage). Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Coastal District Council. The Landguard Conservation Trust, Felixstowe History Museum Society and The Landguard Fort Trust each have agreements with the relevant landowners as set out in plan of tenure (app iii).

1.4 The landowning and management organisations along with Felixstowe Town Council and Natural England are represented as members of the Landguard Partnership.

1.5 Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Coastal District Council have bylaws covering their respective areas of land (app vi).

1.6 31.4ha of the peninsula are scheduled as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and of this area 25ha are designated and managed as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). 34.77 are designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM). The boundaries of the SSSI, SAM and LNR are shown on a plan indicating statutory designations (app v).

1.7 The Landguard Conservation Trust (LCT) has an agreement with English Heritage to use the Right Battery as a Bird Observatory. This has been operating since 1982. LCT’s primary function is the biological recording of all wildlife on the peninsula and to increase public awareness of the natural history of Landguard.

1.8 The Felixstowe History and Museum Society leases the old submarine establishment from English Heritage and run and manage the Felixstowe Museum. The museum houses a large number of valuable artefacts relating to Felixstowe’s social and military history. Landguard Groyne Appendices 25

1.9 The Landguard Fort Trust has entered into a management agreement with English Heritage to maintain and promote the Fort in the capacity of caretakers to the SAM. The Fort Trust deliver a programme of events and exhibitions throughout the summer.

1.10 Landguard Fort is open every day throughout the summer, Felixstowe Museum is open at limited times; Landguard Bird Observatory is closed to the public except for organised tours; Landguard Nature Reserve is open all year round.

1.11 The SSSI is deemed to be in favourable condition and the condition survey is attached in (app iv). Coastal Vegetated Shingle is a globally rare habitat and extremely important on a national scale. The LGNR hosts some nationally rare plants and also boasts upwards of 400 different species found on the peninsula. The shoreline of the peninsula is an ideal habitat for ground nesting birds of which some are listed on the Red Data List of at risk species.

1.12 The SAM designation (app V) relates to the Fort and all other areas where there is evidence of military occupation. This military history of the site spans some 400yrs and has evidence of dating back to the reign of Henry VIII. The Landguard Fort Conservation Statement 1999 was written to ensure that the significance of the site is protected and if at all possible enhanced.

1.13 The LNR is managed by the Landguard Ranger on behalf of The Landguard Partnership. The management of the site is focused primarily on conserving the flora and fauna by managing recreation and raising public awareness of the importance of the historical and natural interest of the site.

1.14 Three car parks serve the peninsula are located at Manor Terrace to the north of the peninsula, to the front of Landguard Fort and at the John Bradfield Viewing Area. Previous monitoring of vehicle numbers using Viewpoint Road and Manor Terrace Car Parks indicate that the peninsula

Darrell’s Battery and Felixstowe Port 26 Landguard Partnership Strategy

attracts around 675,000 visitors each year and a study of visitors to the LNR indicated that some 255,000 visited the reserve. The majority of visitors were found to be from Suffolk and approximately 40% are from Felixstowe.

1.15 The consent for the Felixstowe South Reconfiguration was accompanied by a Section 106 Planning Agreement between the Port of Felixstowe, Suffolk Coastal District Council and Suffolk County Council. This agreement requires the Port of Felixstowe to provide an annual payment of money to support the work of the Landguard Partnership for a period of 10 years. In addition the s106 agreement requires the Port to provide a re-located viewing area, Mediterranean Spurge - Euphorbia characias ssp. a visitor centre, a new parking area near wolfenii the entrance to the Fort, improvements to Viewpoint Road and a cycle route. The Port of Felixstowe are also committed through the agreement to making a contribution towards the construction of a purpose built ferry berth for the foot ferry. All of these facilities are currently scheduled to be provided by the end of 2014.

1.16 The Felixstowe Futures Initiative was established in 2006 with the remit of developing a long term strategy to guide the regeneration of Felixstowe and the Common Starfish - Asterias rubens adjoining villages. The Landguard Peninsula has a significant role to play in helping the meet the aspirations of this initiative. Appendices 27

ii Location Plan 28 Landguard Partnership Strategy

iii Plan of tenure Appendices 29

iv SSSI Citation

File Ref: EA/S/59/14 WLX

SITE NAME: LANDGUARD COMMON, FELIXSTOWE

County: Suffolk

DISTRICT: Suffolk Coastal

Status: Site of Special Scientific Interest [sssI] notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Loc91 Nature Reserve [LNR] established under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949

Local Planning Authority: Suffolk Coastal District Council

National Grid Reference: TM 285315 Area: 31.4 [ha.] ~ 77.6 [ac.]

Ordnance Survey Sheet 1:50,000: 169 1:10,000: TM 23 SE

Date Notified [Under 1949 Act]: 1973 Date of Last Revision: N / A

Date Notified [Under 1981 Act): 1984 Date of Last Revision: -

Other Information: Boundary revised on re-notification. Part of site is a. Local Nature Reserve owned by Suffolk County Council and manage by the Suffolk Trust for Nature Conservation.

Reasons for Notification Landguard Common is a sand and shingle spit protecting the northern entrance to the haven ports of Harwich and Felixstowe. It consists of a loose shingle foreshore backed by a stabilized, vegetated beach, earth banks and scrub. Pioneer shingle plants and vegetated shingle are fragile and nationally scarce habitat type. The site is also of some ornithological interest as a landfall site for passage migrants and for breeding shore birds.

The north part of the foreshore is protected by sea defences but this and the beach crest further south is sea washed and provides bare shingle for colonizing shingle species. This includes a large population of Sea Kale [Crambe maritima] as well as Sea Pea [Lathyrus japonicus], Yellow-Horned Poppy; Sea Sandwort and Sea Campion. The bare shingle is also used by nesting Little Terns and Ringed Plover.

Inland the shingle is stabilized and vegetated. To the south Red Fescue, Early Hair Grass and Sand Sedge predominate whilst further north and on earthworks this merges with dry neutral grassland dominated by False Oat Grass, Cocksfoot and Sea Couch Grass. Other plants include Sea Holly, Sea Bindweed, Viper’s Bugloss, English and Biting Stone crops, Slender Thistle and Crow Garlic together with naturalised species such as Rough Dog’s Tail, Hoary Cress, Dittander and Red Valerian. Rare and local species include Medicago minima, Trifolium ornithopodioides, T glomeratum, T suffocatum, T striatum~ Poa bulbosa and Lathyrus nissolia.

There are several wet areas which contain marsh or saltmarsh species including Sea Rush, Salt Rush, Sea Club-Rush and Sea Milkwort. Scrub, chiefly of Tamarisk, Elder, Rose and Bramble occur particularly on some earthworks. This provides cover for small birds and forms a favoured landfall for migrant species. 30 Landguard Partnership Strategy

V SAM Designations

Monument Number: 21407

NAME: LANDGUARD FORT AND ASSOCIATED FIELD WORKS ASSESSMENT OF IMPORTANCE

Landguard Fort and its associated fieldworks are exceptional in that the visible remains present an unusually complete physical record of developments in military engineering and the response to perceived changes in coastal defence requirements over a period of more than two hundred years; from the early 18th to the mid-20th century, and in particular during the period between 1890 and 1914. The fortress, which forms the nucleus of the complex, is thought to incorporate remains of the original 18th century battery and retains much of the external form and fabric of the fort constructed in the 1740s; knowledge of which is augmented by documentary records including plans and drawings. The 18th century bastioned fort, influenced by French design, was typical of its day, and lies within a tradition which spanned the period from the 17th to the early 19th century. Its designer is not known, but it has similarities to the first Fort Cumberland at Portsmouth designed by John Peter Desmaretz, who is known to have surveyed the Haven in the 1740s. The extensive alterations carried out in the 1870s incorporate some of the distinctive principles of design adopted in the construction of the so-called Royal Commission forts. These were constructed along the south and south east coast following the recommendations of the 1860 Royal Commission on the Defences of the UK. Characteristic features include the extensive casemate battery faced with granite and with iron shields protecting the gun embrasures, the design and furnishings of the casemates, with barrack accommodation to the rear of the gun compartments, and the design of the magazines below. The design of the caponier is, however, unique. Although obsolete almost as soon as the remodelling was completed, the fort remains an impressive example of military engineering in the third quarter of the 19th century, retaining many original features: the iron shielding in particular, is considered to be the best preserved of any in forts of this period. The ravelin block is believed to be the only complete surviving example of a submarine mining depot of this date. The following four decades saw rapid and revolutionary developments in armaments, and the batteries and fire control systems added during this period are therefore of particular interest. The further modifications and additions dating from World War II form part of the extensive and varied system of coastal defence works constructed in haste prior to and immediately after the fall of France in May 1940 and are among the more substantial surviving monuments of that period of national crisis. Additional archaeological information relating to the occupation and function of the fort from the 17th to the mid-20th century is retained in the associated buried remains, slighter earthworks and other features which extend over much of the peninsula and are an integral part of the monument.

The fort, which is in the care of the Secretary of State and maintained for public display, and adjacent areas of the monument which are maintained as a nature reserve with public access, are a valuable educational and recreational resource. Appendices 31

vi Statutory designations

Above left: Area of Site of specific scientific interest (SSSI) designation

Above right: Area of Local Nature Reserve designation (LNR)

Left: Area of Scheduled Ancient Monument designation (SAM) 32 Landguard Partnership Strategy

vii Byelaws

The Suffolk County Council in exercise of the powers conferred upon them by Section 20, 21(4) and 106 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and in accordance with Section 236 of the Local Government Act 1972 hereby make the following byelaws for the protection of the Nature Reserve at Landguard Common in the Parish of Felixstowe in the County of Suffolk.

1. In these byelaws (1) ‘The Reserve ‘means the piece or parcel of land and foreshore containing in the whole 40 acres or thereabouts and situate in the Parish of Felixstowe in the County of Suffolk declared to be managed as a Nature Reserve by the Declaration dated the twenty-second day of February One thousand nine hundred and seventy-nine made by Suffolk County Council in pursuance of Section 19 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and the Reserve is for the purpose of identification shown as nearly as may be on the map annexed to these Byelaws and thereon edged blue (2) ‘The Council’ shall mean the Suffolk County Council (3) ‘Firearm’ shall have the same meaning as in Section 57 of the Firearms Act 1968

2. Within the Reserve the following acts are hereby prohibited, except insofar as they may be authorised by a permit issued in accordance with byelaw 3, and except insofar as they be necessary to proper execution of his duty by any person employed by the Council or a duly authorised agent of said Council

RESTRICTION OF ACCESS (I) entering at any time those parts of the Reserve where notice to keep out has been posted by order of the Council or their duly authorised agent

DAMAGE TO OR DISTURBANCE OF THINGS ON THE RESERVE (II) spreading or using any net, or setting or using any lamp, or any snare or lure, for the taking , injuring or destruction of any living creature (III) taking, molesting or wilfully disturbing, injuring or killing any living creature (IV) taking, or wilfully disturbing, injuring or destroying the eggs or nests of any living creature (V) wilfully removing, cutting or damaging any plant or other vegetation whether living or dead (VI) wilfully removing any soil, shingle, or rock, or defacing any rock (VII) climbing any tree

BRINGING ANIMALS INTO THE RESERVE (VIII) wilfully bringing, or permitting to be brought, into the Reserve any living creature, or the egg of any living creature, or any plant, or any seed or any other part of any plant, in such circumstances that it is likely that such creature or plant will reproduce or propagate itself, or such egg will hatch. Or such seed will germinate (IX) bringing into, or permitting to remain within, the Reserve any dog or other animal unless it is kept under proper control, and is effectively restrained from injuring or disturbing any animal or bird (X) turning out any poultry to feed or graze

AREAS OF WATER (XI) any act which pollutes or is likely to pollute any water (XII) bathing or wading in any water in contravention of a notice exhibited beside that water by order of the Council or by a duly authorised agent of the Council (XIII) water skiing or skating (XIV) sailing of model boats (XV) propelling (by any means whatever) any boat elsewhere than on public waterway in contravention of a notice exhibited beside that water by the Council or by a duly authorised agent of the Council (XVI) mooring or leaving any boat elsewhere than on a beach or mooring site indicated as being available for the purpose by a notice exhibited by the Council or by a duly authorised agent of the Council

USE OF VEHICLES (XVII) driving, riding, propelling or leaving any mechanically propelled vehicle (including hovercraft) Appendices 33

elsewhere than on a highway or on a road or parking place indicated by a notice as being available for that purpose (XVIII) landing any vehicle except in case of emergency

USE OF CERTAIN EQUIPMENT (XIX) erecting or using any camera mounted on a stand or concealing structure for the purpose of photographing or observing any wild animal or bird, or any apparatus for the transmission, reception, reproduction, or amplification of sound, speech or images by electrical or mechanical means, except apparatus used in a vehicle so as not to produce sound audibly by a person outside the vehicle (XX) using any device designed or adapted for detecting or locating any metal or mineral in the Reserve

USE OF FIREARMS, ETC (XXI) carrying a firearm, air weapon, catapult, or bow elsewhere than on a highway (XXII) discharging any firearm or air weapon, or projecting any missile manually or by artificial means

GENERAL PROHIBITIONS (XXIII) erecting, occupying or using any tent, shed or caravan or other structure for the purpose of camping elsewhere than in an area indicated by notice as being available for camping (XXIV) flying any kite or model aircraft (XXV) erecting any post, rail, fence, pole, booth, stand, building or other structure (XXVI) posting or placing any notice or advertisement (XXVII) selling or offering or exposing for sale, or letting for hire or offering or exposing for letting for hire, any commodity or article (XXVIII) playing any game likely to cause a disturbance or holding any show, performance, exhibition or sports or public meeting (XXIX) wilfully or negligently removing or displacing, or negligently facing, damaging or destroying any notice board, notice exhibited by order of the Council or their duly authorised agent, apparatus, wall, boundary bank, fence, barrier, railing, post or hide (XXX) lighting any fire, stove, heater or other appliance capable of causing a fire, elsewhere than in an area indicated by notice as being available for camping (XXXI) letting fall or throwing any lighted match or lighted substance in a manner likely to cause fire (XXXII) wilfully leaving items in a place other than a receptacle provided for deposit of litter refuse

INTERFERENCE WITH DULY AUTHORISED OFFICER PERSON OR AGENT (XXXIII) wilfully obstructing any person employed by the Council or duly authorised agent of the Council in the execution of any research or scientific work or any work connected with the laying out, maintenance or management of the Reserve

3. (1) The Council or their duly authorised agent may issue permits authorising any person to do any act or class of acts within the Reserve or any part there of which would otherwise be unlawful under these byelaws. (2) Any such permit shall be issued subject to the following conditions: (a) that it must be carried whenever a visit is made to the Reserve, and produced for the inspection when required by any duly authorised person, and (b) that it may be revoked by the Council or their duly authorised agent at any time

4. These byelaws shall not interfere with the exercise- (a) by a person of:- (I) a right vested in him as owner, lessee or occupier of land in the Reserve (II) any easement or profit a prendre to which he is entitled (III) any public right (b) of any functions by a local authority, statutory undertaker, a river board or other drainage authority and the Harwich Harbour Conservation Board 34 Landguard Partnership Strategy

(c) by a constable, coastguard or a member of the armed forces or of any fire brigade or ambulance service of the performance of his duty

5. Any person who offends against any of these byelaws shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding the sum of fifty pounds

Byelaws - Amenity Areas

Made under Section 41 of the Countryside Act 1968, by the District Council of Suffolk Coastal with respect to grounds held under Section 41 of the Countryside Act 1986.

1. throughout these byelaws the expression “ the Council” means the District Council of Suffolk Coastal and expression “the land” means each of the areas known as Sutton Amenity Area, Bawdsey Amenity Area, Melton Riverside Area and Landguard Amenity Area.

2. No person shall on the land (I) wilfully, carelessly or negligently soil or defile any wall or fence on or enclosing the land or any building, barrier, railing, post or seat or any erection or ornament; (II) climb any wall or fence on or enclosing the land or any tree or, railing, post or other erection; (III) wilfully, carelessly or negligently remove or displace any barrier, railing, post or seat or any part of any erection or ornament or any implement provided for use in the laying out or maintenance of the land

3. No person shall affix or cause to be affixed any advertisement, bill, placard or notice upon any building, wall, fence, gate, door, pillar, post, tree, rock or stone or enclosing the land.

4. (I) No person shall light a fire on the land or place or throw or let fall a lighted match or any other thing so as to be likely to cause a fire. (II) This byelaw shall not prevent the lighting or use of a properly constructed camping stove or cooker in any area set aside for the purpose as indicated by notice conspicuously displayed in such a manner as not to cause danger of or damage by fire 5. (I) No person shall ride or drive a mechanically propelled vehicle on nay part of the land where there is no right of way for vehicles. (II) This byelaw shall not extend to invalid carriages conforming to the provisions of regulations made under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 (III) If the Council has set apart a space on the land for use by vehicles of any class, this byelaw shall not prevent the riding or driving of those vehicles in the space so set apart or on the direct route between it and the entrance to the land.

6. Where the Council indicated by a notice conspicuously exhibited on or alongside any gate or on the land that leaving the gate open is prohibited, no person having opened that gate or caused it to be open shall leave it open.

7. No person shall without the consent of the Council erect a tent or use any vehicle, including a caravan or any other structure for the purpose of camping on the land except on any area which may be set apart and indicated by notice as place where camping is permitted

8. No person shall have in his possession, while he is on the land, any firearm unless it is so covered with a securely fastened gun cover that it cannot be fired. In this byelaw the expression “firearm” means any lethal barrelled weapon of any description from which any shot, bullet or other missile can be discharged.

This byelaw shall apply to all parts of the land other than any part which is public right of way. Appendices 35

9. No person shall cause or suffer a dog belonging to him or in his charge to enter or remain on the land unless such dog be and continue to be under proper control and be effectually restrained from causing annoyance to any person and from worrying and disturbing any animal.

10. (I) No person shall without lawful excuse or Authority on the land kill, molest or wilfully disturb any animal, bird or fish or engage in hunting, shooting or fishing or the setting of traps or nets or the laying of snares (II) This byelaw shall not prohibit any fishing which may be authorised by the Council

11. No person shall on the land sell or offer or expose for sale or let to hire or offer or expose for letting to hire any commodity or article except in pursuance of an agreement with the Council

12. No person shall obstruct the flow of any drain or water-course or open, shut or otherwise interfere with any sluice gate or similar apparatus on the land.

13. No person shall bathe in any waterway comprised in the land except in an area where a notice exhibited by the Council permits bathing.

14. No person shall wilfully, carelessly or negligently foul or pollute any waterway comprised in the land.

15. No person shall on the land wilfully obstruct, disturb or annoy any other person in the proper use of the land or wilfully obstruct or disturb a warden or other officer of the Council in the proper execution of his duty or any other person or servant of any person employed by the Council in the proper execution of any work in connection with the laying out or maintenance of the land.

16. (I) An act necessary to the proper execution of his duty on the land by an officer of the Council or by any person or servant of any person employed by the Council shall not be deemed an offence against these byelaws (II) Nothing in or done under any of the provisions of these byelaws shall in respect prejudice or injuriously affect any public right of way through the land or the rights of any person acting legally by virtue of some estate, right or interest in, over or affecting the land or any part thereof.

17. Every person who shall offend against these byelaws shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding fifty pounds

Sunset over the Stour and Orwell Landguard Partnership consists of all the relevant landowners and interested parties who have come together to ensure a future for landguard.

LANDGUARD BIRD OBSERVATORY

Harwich Haven Port of Felixstowe Authority

For more information or to request a copy of the Strategic Plan please contact us on the telephone number or email address as shown below.

Landguard Project Officer Landguard Partnership [email protected] 01394 675 283

Design by Chris Saunders 01473 721550