State of the Natural Environment in the South West

State of the natural environment in the South West

www.naturalengland.org.uk Contents

Foreword 1

1 The natural environment in the South West: an overview 3

1.1 Landscape 4 1.2 Biodiversity 5 1.3 Enjoying the natural environment 6 1.4 Natural England’s role 6

2 Key issues for Natural England in the South West 10

2.1 Sustainable land management 10 2.2 The maritime environment 13 2.3 Green Infrastructure 16 2.4 Health and the environment 19 2.5 The uplands 22 2.6 Climate change 25

3 Meeting the challenge in the South West 27

Acknowledgements

Natural England recognises the importance of sharing knowledge and working with others for the benefit of the natural environment and the people who use it. We would like to express our sincere thanks to:

Biodiversity South West; Cornwall Sea Fisheries Committee; Country Land and Business Association; Devon Sea Fisheries Committee; English Heritage; Environment Agency; Forestry Commission; Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group; Government Office for the South West; Heritage Lottery Fund; Local Record Centres; Marine Biological Association; Marine Fisheries Agency; National Farmers’ Union; National Trust; Local Authorities; Land and Sea Managers; Royal Society for the Protection of Birds; The Wildlife Trusts; Southern Sea Fisheries Committee; South West Regional Development Agency; South West Regional Observatory; South West Protected Landscapes Forum; Sustainability South West; and other partners too numerous to mention without whose help the natural environment would be a poorer place. Foreword

Natural England has been charged with quality of life for all, provide climate change ensuring that the region’s unique land and security and conserve and enhance the seascapes are protected and improved. We natural environment on which our wellbeing also have the responsibility to help people depends. enjoy, understand, access and benefit from the natural environment. The challenge for The South West has fantastic natural assets us now is to show how a healthy natural including magnificent countryside, a dramatic environment makes a real difference to coastline, a rich marine environment and a people’s lives. This report sets out to do just range of nationally and internationally that, bringing together evidence from our recognised wildlife sites and species. A national State of the Natural Environment healthy natural environment is important for 2008 report and regional data sources. its own sake and for the range of public goods and services it provides. The first section describes why our natural environment in the South West is so special. This report shows we still have much work to The second section looks at a number of do to conserve our environment in the long important regional issues, highlighting the term and ensure that people value and enjoy work Natural England is already doing and it. But it also shows that targeted action can the challenges we and our partners face. make a huge positive difference to the natural The report concludes with a call to action, environment and its contribution to the summarising how we can work together regional prosperity, particularly where strong across the region to deliver a healthy natural partnerships work together. environment that underpins people’s

prosperity and a more equitable society. © N a t u

The region’s longer term vision must be to r a l E

achieve a better quality of life for the people n g l living, working in and visiting the South West. a n Regional strategies already recognise the d natural environment as a key asset in its own right.

To meet the challenge presented by climate change, our path to economic recovery must not be based on existing assumptions, simply Janette Ward re-establishing current patterns of growth, Regional Director consumption and impacts. We must radically shift our economy and behaviours to build more sustainable patterns of human activity and economic interaction that deliver better

State of the natural environment in the South West 1 © Natural England/Paul Glendell

State of the natural environment in the South West State of the natural

2 Bridgerule Farm, Holsworthy, Devon Holsworthy, Farm, Bridgerule 3 © Natural England/Simon Bates al State of the natural environment in the South West State of the natural Our natural health service – with the Our natural potential to make a major contribution the to the health and wellbeing of nation, free for everyone to use. The foundations of our cultur identity – our land and seascapes bring pleasure to millions, and underpin profitable tourism and recreation industries. The basic necessities of life – clean air, The basic necessities of life – in clean water and productive soils which to grow our food. of economic Support for a range materials for activities – raw and sustainable energy production construction. – Security against climate change and locking up our carbon emissions flooding. protecting against the risk of ࡯ ࡯ The South West’s unique natural The South West’s essential public environment provides services: ࡯ ࡯ ࡯ s or 18% 2 total coast. The seas off the South s

amatic and diverse as anything on land. est of England support half of the UK’ River Dart, Devon South West: an overview South the English is the largest of The South West roughly 24,000 km regions, covering The natural environment in the in environment natural The Chapter 1 Chapter wildlife and contain undersea landscapes as dr W The region’s beauty, history and tranquillity The region’s and visitors from all over the country draw land region’s the world. Almost 40% of the special area has been designated, receiving quality of its protection for the outstanding is renowned for its landscape. The South West has over maritime environment. The region coastline, 2,100 kilometres of magnificent more than any other region and a quarter of England’ of the country’s land area. Geographically the land area. Geographically of the country’s stretching 350 km from region is a peninsula to south west Cornwall. north Gloucestershire region with most rural While it is the country’s living over half of its five million residents urban outside towns, there is a significant six people population. More than one in main conurbations – reside in the region’s Bristol, Plymouth, Swindon and more in its Bournemouth/Poole – and many towns. historic cities, market and coastal 1.1 Landscape ࡯ There are four World Heritage Sites (WHS) in the South West: Stonehenge and Landscape is the meeting place of nature, Avebury, the City of Bath, the Cornwall land use and people. It links the social, and West Devon Mining Landscape and economic, cultural and environmental values the East Devon and Dorset World Heritage of the past, the present and the future giving Site, commonly known as the Jurassic the communities that live there a distinctive Coast and the only WHS in England that sense of place and creating local identities. has been designated primarily for its Natural England believes that all landscapes natural rather than cultural features. matter. ࡯ The South West has 1,227 km of National Trails made up of two complete trails; the The landscapes of the South West are highly South West Coast Path and the Cotswold diverse with 41 National Character Areas (NCAs) Way. There are parts of three other Trails in identified which can be distinguished by their the region: Offa’s Dyke Path, the Ridgeway unique combinations of natural and human and the Thames Path. influenced features. Some of the South West’s best loved, iconic landscapes are protected ࡯ Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve by statutory or non-statutory designations. (1,351 ha), which lies within the North Devon AONB, is one of only three Biosphere ࡯ There are two National Parks wholly in the Reserves in England. South West, Dartmoor and Exmoor, ࡯ Covering 6,200 ha of land and 4,100 ha of covering 7% (167,855 ha) of the region, and seabed, the English Riviera is one of only a small part of the New Forest. two Geoparks in England. ࡯ There are 12 Areas of Outstanding Natural ࡯ There are 574 recorded geological features Beauty (AONB) wholly in the South West in the South West, the highest number of covering 30% (720,030 ha) of the region plus any region and one third of all these parts of two others. features in England. ࡯ The region contains more than 841 ࡯ The South West also has two of the kilometres of England’s Heritage Coast, country’s 12 Community Forests, the Forest which is approximately two thirds of all of Avon and the Great Western Community heritage coast in the country. Forest. © N a t Heather on Dartmoor u r a l E n g l a n d / S i m o n B a t e s

4 State of the natural environment in the South West 1.2 Biodiversity Despite signs of recovery during the last decade, the South West’s biodiversity is much The South West supports a significant less rich now than 50 years ago. There has proportion of England’s most valued land and been a long-term decline in a number of marine wildlife sites, habitats and species. A habitats, such as woodland, wetland and rich geological diversity and mild wet climate lowland heath and in indicator species. For combine to create the region’s special fauna example, the regional farmland bird index and flora. Almost 10% of the region by area has declined by 40% since the 1970s. has been designated as nationally or internationally important sites for wildlife. The South West supports many species of The South West contains 52 National Nature global and national importance. Examples Reserves (16,568 hectares) and 179 Local of species which are only found in the South Nature Reserves (13,092 hectares). West include the Lundy cabbage, western ramping fumitory and Cornish path moss. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) The region also hosts an important support the country’s very best wildlife and population of the hairy click beetle which geology. Almost a quarter (978) of the occurs in reed beds alongside the River country’s SSSIs are in the South West covering Parrett in Somerset. over 170,000 hectares. Currently 87% of the region’s SSSIs are in ‘favourable’ condition, an The South West’s aquatic environment increase from 68% in 2003. Better evidence on contains a significant proportion of the the condition of habitats, particularly those region’s wildlife. The shallow reefs off the outside designated sites in the South West, is coast of east Devon and Dorset support high required. densities of the pink sea fan, a soft coral more typical of Mediterranean waters. The The South West has the largest area of semi- region is also home to the rare freshwater natural habitats of any English region and pearl mussel with a population in the Taw and supports a high proportion of some of the Torridge rivers. country’s rarest and most endangered UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) priority Many species receive protection directly habitats: through specific legislation while others are ࡯ 60% of the UK’s calcareous grassland, afforded protection via site designation. The mainly in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and South West contains: Dorset. ࡯ all or part of nine Ramsar sites, wetlands of ࡯ 25% of the UK’s lowland heaths, mostly in international importance. Dorset, Devon and Cornwall. ࡯ England’s only statutory Marine Nature ࡯ 57% of the UK’s lowland meadows, mostly Reserve around the Island of Lundy. in Devon and the Somerset Levels. ࡯ 69 Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), ࡯ 37% of the UK’s saline lagoon habitat – the internationally important sites for Fleet in Dorset is England’s largest brackish threatened habitats and species, including lagoon. eight marine SACs with more proposed for designation in 2010. ࡯ some of the best offshore reefs in the country particularly those off south and ࡯ 15 Special Protection Areas designated to east Devon. protect rare and vulnerable birds.

State of the natural environment in the South West 5 © Andrea Lim aditional TH (Heathland, ourism, Heritage) HEA role s Sustainable Development aining centre in Purbeck. ole Recovery Project into the Otter al England’ acken management and controlled est Cornwall the ater V (SDF) fully funded by Natural England. (SDF) fully funded by Natural azing, br which it is changing is likely to increase due which it is changing is likely to measure is to climate change, one proposed should that access along a coastal path back’ if the land recedes. automatically ‘roll project has reconnected and restored lowland heathland habitat on over 4,000 hectares through the re-introduction of tr such as scrub clearance, farming practices gr burning. More information is available at www.theheathproject.org.uk 1.4 Natur of how we have Here are just a few examples and enhance worked with others to protect West environment of the South the natural for people to and extend the opportunities enjoy this asset. Every AONB has a Fund In the East Devon AONB, the SDF has: assisted the development of a small woodland owners’ network and the installation of a 50kW woodchip boiler; extended the work of the W and Sid catchments; and established a drystone wall tr Across W Environment, Agriculture, T The

est Tourism estimates that each year six estimates est Tourism

million people use the path, making it one of Its value to key tourist attractions. the region’s the regional economy has been estimated at through the £307 million per year generated associated spend of those who walk the path. is currently before Parliament legislation Draft proposing measures to improve access along the English coast. Recognising that the coast at is a dynamic environment and the rate The South West has the highest levels of legal has The South West coastal access in England (70%). Perhaps the the 1,014 km crown is jewel in the region’s from stretching Path Coast South West Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in South Trail. longest National Dorset, Britain’s W region has an estimated 34,700 km of rights region has an estimated 34,700 land with of way and 4.5% is open access and Bodmin significant areas on Dartmoor (NNRs) in the Moor. National Nature Reserves in 2005/06 region received 2.6 million visitors Heath NNR, while Studland and Godlington which is managed by the National Trust, was the third most visited NNR in the country. Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks received 5.4 million visitor days in 2005/06. State of the natural environment in the South West State of the natural outdoors, whether it’s a visit to a National Park, outdoors, whether it’s space. nature reserve, beach or local green The South West has plenty of opportunities The South West and enjoy the for people to get out and about 1.3 Enjoying the natural environment 1.3 Enjoying the natural

6 Family at Land’s End at Land’s Family The shore and seas around Lundy Island off Natural England has worked with Biodiversity the north Devon coast were designated as South West to develop the South West Nature England’s first statutory Marine Nature Map which highlights ‘Strategic Nature Areas’ Reserve in 1986. Collaboration with the Devon (SNAs) in the region. These are blocks of land Sea Fisheries Committee and north Devon with the best potential for maintaining and fishermen led to the creation of the Lundy expanding terrestrial wildlife habitats, no-take zone. The first legally enforced no- through restoration and/or re-creation at a fishing area in UK waters for the purposes of ‘landscape’ scale. For more information visit: nature conservation, the zone covers four www.biodiversitysouthwest.org.uk/nmap.html square kilometres and gives greater protection to the most sensitive part of the Reserve. Populations of commercial species in the no-take zone such as lobsters and scallops are now helping to replenish stocks in surrounding areas, with benefits for local fishing communities.

Figure 1 The South West Nature Map Identifies the best areas in our region to conserve, create and connect wildlife habitats at a landscape scale.

Source: Natural England, 2008

Each SNA contains a mosaic of habitats. The predominant habitat type for each SNA is shown in the key:

Woodland Coastal & floodplain grazing marsh Chalk download Standing open water Limestone grassland Coastal habitats Neutral grassland Mosaic Purple moor grass & rush pasture Principal river networks Upland heath County/Unitary Authority boundary Lowland heath Area outside of SNAs also contains important wildlife sites and species

State of the natural environment in the South West 7 The South West Farmland Bird Initiative is an exciting, pioneering partnership, which is working with the farming community and other partners to deliver positive habitat management for farmland birds across Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Dorset.

These areas are nationally important for farmland birds and other wildlife found within the wider countryside, particularly for Each area has a leaflet and those bird species associated with arable poster detailing the farmland - lapwing, grey partridge, turtle initiative and its benefits. dove, yellow wagtail, tree sparrow, corn For more information visit: bunting - and rarer arable plants like www.naturalengland.org.uk/ shepherd’s needle. regions/south_west/ ourwork/farmlandbirds The initiative consists of four projects, targeting the Cotswolds, North Wessex Downs, south Wiltshire and Dorset. Using Environmental Stewardship funding each project will deliver a combination of tailored advice, workshops and one-to-one farm visits to help farmers put the right package of management measures in place to reverse the decline in farmland birds. © G r e g a n d Y v o n n e D e a n / W o r l d W i l d l i f e I m a g e s

Corn bunting

8 State of the natural environment in the South West Figure 2 Examples of Natural England’s partnerships work in the South West

Source: Natural England, 2008

The Access to Nature scheme encourages The Living River project aims to increase people, particularly those who have little or awareness and appreciation of the River Avon no contact with the natural environment, to and its tributaries. Working closely with the appreciate and make use of local green space. local communities from the river’s The scheme is managed by Natural England headwaters in the Wiltshire Downs to the on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund and a sea at Christchurch in Dorset, a key element consortium of 12 environmental organisations. of the project is increasing access to and Applications are prioritised to ensure that information about the river. Resources to disadvantaged communities and groups in restore river habitats at sites the public can both urban and rural areas of the region are enjoy have been provided by a range of the beneficiaries. Grants have already been partners including Heritage Lottery Fund and awarded to the Salisbury Arts Festival to Natural England. The project is using enable urban communities to engage with the innovative methods to engage audiences natural environment through art, and to the throughout the river catchment and secure Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to work with families their support for its conservation. For more and young people to connect them with local information visit: www.livingriver.org.uk nature spaces. For more information visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/ enjoying/outdoorsforall/accesstonature

State of the natural environment in the South West 9 Chapter 2 Key issues for Natural England in the South West

Chapter 1 showed that we have a range of Three quarters, or approximately 1.8 million fantastic natural assets in the South West and hectares, of the entire land area of the region gave some examples of our work to protect, is farmed and there are nearly 50,000 enhance and appreciate them. Here we use a agricultural holdings (about one quarter of number of priority work areas to illustrate in the UK total). Farming contributes £1.4 billion more detail how Natural England is targeting to the South West economy, a quarter of the its current activity and also describe the total for UK agriculture. The region has more challenges ahead for the region. grazing livestock than any other and has one third of the nation’s beef and dairy herds.

2.1 Sustainable land management Post war agricultural policy has resulted in a trend towards fewer and larger farms and Evidence more intensive and specialised production Over the centuries, farming and forestry have systems. There has been significant landscape created the unique quality and diversity of change in the South West with loss of features the South West landscape, from the small such as hedgerows, traditional orchards and fields enclosed by banks and hedges to the historic environment as well as reduction or wide open space of the uplands of Dartmoor loss of species, and damage to soils. Other and Exmoor. Land management practices indirect environmental impacts include today continue to contribute to the region’s diffuse pollution, nitrous oxide emissions distinctive landscape. and loss of carbon from soils. ©

Devon cattle in culm grassland P e t e r B u r g e s s / D e v o n W i l d l i f e T r u s t

10 State of the natural environment in the South West Figure 3 Assessment of landscape character

National Character Areas 105 Forest of Dean and Lower Wye 106 Severn and Avon Vales 107 Cotswolds 108 Upper Thames Clay Vales 109 Midvale Ridge 116 Berkshire and Marlborough Downs 117 Avon Vales 118 Bristol, Avon Valleys and Ridges 132 Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs 133 Blackmoor Vale and Vale of Wardour 134 Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase 135 Dorset Heaths 136 South Purbeck 137 Isle of Portland 138 Weymouth Lowlands 139 Marshwood and Powerstock Vales 140 Yeovil Scarplands 141 Mendip Hills 142 Somerset Levels and Moors 143 Mid Somerset Hills 144 Quantock Hills 145 Exmoor 146 Vale of Taunton and Quantock Fringes 147 Blackdowns 148 Devon Redlands 149 The Culm 150 Dartmoor 151 South Devon 152 Cornish Killas 153 Bodmin Moor 154 Hensbarrow 155 Carnmenellis 156 West Penwith 157 The Lizard

Source: Natural England, 2008

A system has been developed to monitor Responses change in National Character Areas (NCAs) Natural England supports, promotes and based on the retention or loss of key features, encourages the adoption of sustainable such as woodlands, field boundaries and land management practices and is working farming methods. The calculation is complex with partners on a number of initiatives. but the overall regional summary is that Environmental Stewardship is an agri- marked change, inconsistent with the environment scheme administered by traditional character of the countryside, is Natural England. It provides financial evident in parts of Somerset, Wiltshire, North incentives which enable landowners to Dorset and Cornwall. farm commercially whilst restoring and recreating habitats, maintaining landscapes, As a result of increased regulation and encouraging wildlife, preserving historic reduced profitability in some areas, livestock sites, adding footpaths and bridleways and producers, particularly smaller ones, have offering educational visits. In addition to been forced out of the industry with the grant payments, assistance is provided result that the numbers of grazing animals through advice and events such as have declined. The reduction in livestock workshops, clinics farm walks and visits. numbers has consequences in terms of landscape management. Looking forward we need to reassess what our priorities are to achieve sustainable land management and the public services it provides.

State of the natural environment in the South West 11 Currently, 1.2 million ha or 61.7% of Together with the Country Landowners and the South West’s Utilisable Agricultural Area Business Association, Natural England is also is now covered by an agri-environment enabling farmers and land managers in the scheme agreement. Payments have already region to learn how to carry out a Carbon assisted the recovery of a range of key Accounting for Land Managers (CALM) audit. habitats such as culm grassland and species This helps them identify the actions which including skylark, bittern, snipe and cirl can be taken to reduce their greenhouse gas bunting, and helped to restore and maintain emissions. thousands of kilometres of hedgerows and stone walls. Through educational visits and Challenges access, these schemes also have a role in Overall there are significant challenges ahead reconnecting people with the countryside. if land management is to continue delivering social and economic benefits but not at the detriment of the natural environment. A key The Catchment Sensitive Farming challenge is to ensure that we achieve food Delivery Initiative (CSFDI) seeks to production while meeting the competing mitigate diffuse water pollution from demands for land such as new forms of energy agriculture in 12 catchment areas of the production, housing and related infrastructure. region. This is done through encouraging There is also the added challenge of climate land managers to voluntarily adopt change to consider, coupled with volatile practices that maintain diffuse emissions commodity and fuel markets. of pollutants into rivers, groundwater and other aquatic habitats at acceptable We need partners to help us deliver levels. The initiative also includes a Environmental Stewardship on holdings with Capital Grant Scheme for capital works features that are likely to deliver the most that would benefit water quality in environmental or other public benefits. The priority catchments. Together with the next big challenge will be to present a case Environment Agency, Natural England for a reformed Common Agricultural Policy will also deliver Soils for Profit (S4P) with a greater emphasis on funding the helping farmers beyond CSFDI delivery of public benefits through catchments, especially those in Nitrate environmental land management. Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) through a programme of advice, training and small Regionally, we also wish to work with capital grants. partners to help deliver the ambitions and objectives of the South West Sustainable Food and Farming Delivery Plan 2008-2011. © N a t u r a l E n g l a n d / P a u l G l e n d e l l

Chris and Richard Gordon – South West Future of Farming Award winners

12 State of the natural environment in the South West ©

Jewel anemones – common on exposed reefs in the South West S a l l y S h a r r o c k

2.2 The maritime environment ࡯ recreational angling generating more than 3,000 jobs. Evidence ࡯ approximately 1,400 marine businesses. The maritime environment (our seas, coasts, bays, estuaries and islands) defines the South ࡯ an estimated 70% of the UK’s marine West, from our seafaring history to our biologists and 50% of its oceanographers. innovative water sports. It enhances quality of life of the South West’s residents and The hidden nature of much of the maritime underpins the regional economy. Many environment means there is little public people are drawn to the region by the quality understanding of the richness of our sea, of our seas and the magnificent coastal the threats it faces and the damage and landscapes. The South West has: degradation currently taking place. Key pressures include unsustainable fishing ࡯ a territorial sea area of 41,000 square km activity, pollution, inappropriate development compared to 24,000 square km of land. and climate change. ࡯ more than 20 internationally important coastal and marine conservation sites. Commercial fishing activity impacts on both ࡯ around 8,000 marine species, over half target and non-target species. Damage to the of the UK’s wildlife. seabed occurs from the use of certain types of fishing gear. In 2005 fish and shellfish The maritime environment provides worth £53 million were landed in the region’s opportunities for fisheries, tourism, ports, but fish landings are on a clear downward recreation, renewable energy, and a whole trend. Over-fishing in our seas is believed to range of support services such as marine be reducing both the diversity of species and technology development and innovative the average size of the fish caught. These marine science. The South West has: changes affect not only the viability of the South West fishing industry, but also the ࡯ 42% of England’s commercial fishing whole marine food chain. activity, supporting around 9,000 jobs.

State of the natural environment in the South West 13 Water quality is a major concern in estuaries and enclosed coastal waters of the South Finding Sanctuary is the most significant West. This is affected primarily by diffuse opportunity for marine conservation inputs such as run-off from agriculture and there has ever been in the South West. urban drainage. A combination of agricultural The project is working with stakeholders land-use, steeply sloping land and high to design a ecologically coherent rainfall has resulted in diffuse pollution network of Marine Conservation Zones accounting for around 80% of all marine (MCZs) by mid 2011 which will safeguard pollution. the region's undersea habitats and marine life. The knowledge and views of Development pressures around our coast people who use the sea for their are immense. Many of our major urban livelihood or leisure are at the heart of settlements are sited around estuaries, while the project. MCZs will be planned in a the quality of life that attracts people to the way that minimises impacts to South West drives further development in stakeholders and provides clear benefits attractive coastal locations. Numerous small for nature conservation, through a scale developments result in a loss of coastal transparent, fair and collaborative and marine habitats, particularly of estuarine process. For more information visit: foreshore, and associated impacts on fish www.finding-sanctuary.org feeding and spawning areas and public access.

Responses Work funded by Natural England, The Wildlife the charity Marinelife, Natural England is Trusts and others has identified ‘hotspots’ for supporting scientific surveys that are already basking shark activity around the South West. confirming the area’s importance for these These are key areas where water movement threatened marine species and is putting concentrates plankton, making them forward recommendations on how best to important locations for feeding basking co-ordinate and target future conservation sharks as well as other marine wildlife, such action. A key part of the project has been as fish and cetaceans (whales, dolphins and reinforcing good relationships with the local porpoises). Such information is crucial in community, in particular anglers, recreational developing appropriate protection for a divers and fishing boat operators. wide range of species. © T Fishermen in the South West have also o m

taken positive steps to improve the marine B r e r

environment, for example with funding from e t o

Natural England and other partners through n / M

the Fishing for Litter project. This is providing a r i n

fishermen with on-board facilities for l i f collecting rubbish trawled up during fishing e and disposal points in port where the rubbish can be recycled.

Lyme Bay is considered to be regionally and nationally important for selected cetacean species such as the white-beaked dolphin and internationally important for the globally threatened Balearic shearwater. Working with Balearic shearwater

14 State of the natural environment in the South West © A d r i a n S h e p h a r d / M a r i n e l i f e

White-beaked dolphin in Lyme Bay

Challenges To deliver significant improvements to our There must be a duty on new marine maritime environment we need robust management bodies to further the environmental protection. We also need a conservation of marine wildlife. This is a better way of valuing and understanding our time of great change in the fishing industry. maritime environment that encourages a Support will be needed to help it adapt to longer term view. We expect all regional a period of uncertainty. This could be decision makers to champion sustainability done for example, by targeting European in our maritime environment – from Fisheries Funding towards a shift to sourcing decisions which support best sustainable fishing techniques, with practice, to allocation of funds that associate accreditation, or enhanced encourage positive change. involvement in Marine Conservation Zone selection and management through the South West seas are a shared resource. Finding Sanctuary project. We need to involve other nations in delivering sustainable management of In terms of the coastal environment, with our coastal waters. Collectively we must climate change and sea level rise a reality, work to influence European Directives we need planners and policy makers to take and Policies to deliver sustainability the long term view. This means refusing across European waters. developments which constrain our ability to allow the coast to move, and actively planning for difficult choices such as managed coastal realignment.

State of the natural environment in the South West 15 2.3 Green Infrastructure ‘Green Infrastructure’ is the network of protected sites, green spaces and various Evidence linkages (including parks, gardens, rights of The high quality natural environment of the way, river corridors, allotments, canals, rivers, South West means that land for development cycleways and footpaths) that thread is in short supply. However, the draft Regional throughout urban areas and out to the wider Spatial Strategy (RSS) proposes that 592,460 countryside. Natural England is a strong homes should be built in the next 20 years advocate for Green Infrastructure which to accommodate the region’s fast growing should be an integral component of any new population, with the majority of new homes or existing development, as fundamental as focussed on eight ‘Growth Points’. The sewers and roads, shops and schools. Well economy may be slowing down but the planned and managed Green Infrastructure expectation is that the need for new can provide multiple benefits – areas for dwellings and associated infrastructure will recreation, wildlife, growing food, shade, remain. How can the region deliver truly water management and carbon storage to sustainable urban settlements that enhance mitigate impacts of climate change – and is peoples’ quality of life and support the South essential to enhancing quality of life in the West’s landscapes and natural environment? region.

Figure 4 Accessible green space in the South West

Bottom 10% Low (bottom 30%) Medium High (top 30%) Top 10%

This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. 0 50 Km Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Natural England 100046223 2008. Map ref: 08-162

16 State of the natural environment in the South West Figure 5 Plymouth Green Infrastructure Framework diagram

Responses The Plymouth Green Infrastructure project Natural England is compiling strategic is a proactive response to the city’s growth information about the quality and quantity of agenda. The project is demonstrating new the region’s Green Infrastructure. Resources ways of designing, delivering and managing include the South West Nature Map (see Green Infrastructure, and facilitating cross page 7), the Regional Land Use Map which boundary partnerships. Natural England is shows agricultural holdings by farm type and hosting the Green Infrastructure Project the Regional Accessible Greenspace Map Officer and is developing, with key partners, (Figure 4). innovative ways of working to ensure delivery of the project’s objectives. The Natural England is working with many other project will deliver a Green Infrastructure partners to help develop a strategic approach Plan that is strongly linked to the planning to planning and managing Green Infrastructure system; create new green spaces that meet throughout the region. We are a member of the needs of the local communities and Strategic Partnerships for many of the region’s wildlife; test new ways of managing land Growth Points which are required to produce into the future; and help Plymouth mitigate Green Infrastructure strategies. We also chair and adapt to the challenges of climate the Devon Green Infrastructure Group that is change. Figure 5 is a visual representation steering a Local Area Agreement target to of the strategic work the plan will focus on deliver Green Infrastructure. Other counties showing existing and proposed green are looking to emulate this approach. spaces and how they will be linked.

State of the natural environment in the South West 17 Engaging with the local community is key Challenges to understanding current use of local green Natural England believes that 40% of the area space and how it might be improved to better of our towns and cities should be Green serve people’s needs. In the West of England Infrastructure. We will continue to advocate sub-region Natural England has contributed that Green Infrastructure is recognised as an funding and advice towards a Green essential element of all developments by Infrastructure demonstration project at the developers and local authorities. We are also new development at Locking Castle in encouraging all stakeholders to become Weston-super-Mare. Proposed work includes active members of the South West Green gateway signing, interpretation and tree Infrastructure Network, sharing experiences planting. Natural England has also supported and working to develop a regional vision and the development of a Green Infrastructure principles for Green Infrastructure. Tool Kit – an interactive web-based map showing the extent and opportunities for We will continue to work with partners to improving Green Infrastructure – aimed at ensure that housing, infrastructure and planners, builders and communities. transport proposals are planned and developed within environmental limits, and Around Bournemouth and Poole, Natural that they fully integrate the conservation and England has set up a Higher Level enhancement of the natural environment. We Stewardship agreement that has introduced will engage with local planning authorities to grazing for the first time in recent history plan for and develop Green Infrastructure into these urban centres. This is helping to networks. maintain the biodiversity of the urban heaths, as well as providing greater opportunities for It is vital that the new Single Regional Strategy the public to understand where their food recognises the significance of multi- comes from. functional Green Infrastructure. We would like to see all counties and sub-regions In Torbay, Natural England is working with provide a strategic approach to Green partners to increase the accessibility of Infrastructure, tied into the planning system, networks of open spaces, such as Berry Head ensuring engagement and join up of all the National Nature Reserve, by increasing different sectors involved. Once that strategic peoples’ enjoyment and understanding of approach is complete Natural England will the natural environment. In Taunton, Natural seek to contribute to its delivery. England has been liaising with the Borough Council on the management of sites for We will continue to work with partners to lesser horseshoe bats, a European protected develop the regional Green Infrastructure species. We are aiming to deliver Green evidence base. We need to increase our Infrastructure within new developments knowledge about the breadth of Green that meets people’s recreational needs and Infrastructure required to sustain our cities. provides essential foraging areas for the bats. How many people, for example, realise that land management on Dartmoor influences the quality of the drinking water supply of the people of the City of Plymouth?

18 State of the natural environment in the South West ©

Exe Estuary Trail, Exeter D e v o n C o u n t y C o u n c i l

2.4 Health and the environment

Evidence The environment in which we live profoundly The South West is a generally healthy region affects our health and wellbeing. There is compared with other parts of the country. growing evidence of the physical and mental However, the regional figure masks sub- health and wellbeing benefits of contact with regional variation, including pockets of high quality natural environments. Physical significant health deprivation in both urban activity in a natural outdoor setting has been and rural areas. The South West has a higher termed ‘green exercise’. It can include a range proportion of its population over the age of of pastimes such as walking, cycling, 50 than any other region in the country. gardening and conservation projects. These Projections indicate that the number of have been shown to reduce stress, improve residents in these groups will continue to self-esteem and lower blood pressure more grow. This has implications for health services effectively than activity done elsewhere. in the region because, as a rule, older people People who exercise in these settings are also are more prone to illness. more likely to become advocates for the need to protect the natural environment.

State of the natural environment in the South West 19 Like the rest of Britain, the South West faces an obesity epidemic. Tackling this is perhaps The NHS Alliance project in Cullompton, our most significant public health challenge. Devon is an initiative between Natural Obesity matters as it can have a severe impact England and the Culm Valley Integrated on an individual’s current and future health. Centre for Health to promote the use of Weight-related illness puts an enormous the natural environment for therapy and strain on families, the health service and treatment. The Centre offers traditional society more broadly. Obesity levels in the health and social care services alongside South West have risen sharply in recent years. those provided by independent Currently, 21% of men and 19% of women in complementary practitioners. The the region are classified as obese (Body Mass Centre has appointed a health facilitator Index >30) as are almost 15 % of children aged to work with patients who have between 2 and 15 years. sedentary lifestyles referred by their doctor to overcome perceived barriers Responses to exercise. The facilitator encourages The natural environment has a role to play in patients to become more active through reversing the current trend in obesity. Natural setting individual exercise goals and England is working to promote green exercise identifying opportunities for physical as a preventative health solution in the South activity in their local area, such as local West. We have a number of pilot projects walking schemes aimed at the less demonstrating innovative ways of active. introducing people to activity in the natural environment in order to improve their health.

The 3 Generation (3G) Woodland Games Whilst many people are already effectively project promotes the use of green space and using coastal and inland waterways for woodland areas in and around Swindon and recreation, some sectors of society perceive the Great Western Community Forest to significant barriers to using these places. improve the physical health and mental Working in partnership with the Peninsula wellbeing of the local community. It is a Medical School, Natural England is piloting partnership project funded by Natural the Blue Gym project. This is promoting the England, Swindon Borough Council, Forestry safe and enjoyable use of the region’s sea, Commission and the Community Forest. rivers, and canals in order to increase levels of active participation. People are encouraged The activities on offer include an outreach to get involved in a range of activities, such as programme of woodcraft workshops, conservation work, that both improves their coaching sessions for ‘non-traditional’ own mental and physical health and outdoor sports and a healthy walks enhances understanding of the South West’s programme. The main target audiences are inland water and marine environments. children and young people, in particular those with learning difficulties or at risk of exclusion from school, their families and the older generation. An annual 3G Woodland Games family day, held in a local woodland or green space, celebrates the natural environment and promotes the breadth of recreation opportunities available locally.

20 State of the natural environment in the South West © N a t u r a l E n g l a n d

Tavistock Walk and Talk Group

Challenges The Walking the Way to Health Initiative A key challenge for Natural England is to (WHI) is a Department of Health- share the results of the regional projects recognised scheme that has encouraged with partners. We want to get the use of the thousands of people in the region to natural environment prescribed by doctors walk outdoors for the benefit of their as a real alternative to conventional drug health. Natural England offers advice, treatment, where appropriate, for a range information about training providers and of conditions such as mild depression. This insurance to the 76 local WHI groups in requires more medically sound and the South West. We award accreditation consistent evidence rather than anecdotal to groups that meet the required criteria. accounts. We also want to see an expansion Monitoring of WHI is carried out through of healthy walking schemes in the region and accredited walking groups that collect have recently gained additional Department data using the Outdoor Health of Health financial support to achieve this. Questionnaire. It is hoped that our It is also vital that local authorities and developing evidence base will others improve the quality and quantity of demonstrate the efficacy of this activity green space near where people live. We in the natural environment to frontline believe that if people and communities use health professionals. More information the green space on their doorstep they will on WHI is available at www.whi.org.uk increasingly value the natural environment for its own sake and for the social interaction opportunities and health benefits it provides. We are committed to encouraging such engagement. PHOTO WHI group Credi

State of the natural environment in the South West 21 2.5 The uplands fritillary butterfly, whose UK range has declined by 94%, is confined in the region to Evidence three strongholds, including Dartmoor and The South West uplands are special Exmoor. landscapes where, for thousands of years, people have lived and worked, creating an Rivers on the moors provide spawning intimate combination of open moorland and grounds for salmon, a protected species enclosed farmland. Dartmoor and Exmoor under the European Habitats Directive. were designated National Parks in 1951 and Salmon fishing in the South West is worth 1954 respectively, while Bodmin Moor is part £2m to the local economy. Good fisheries for of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural salmon as well as sea trout and brown trout Beauty. The area of the three uplands combined depend heavily upon the high water quality is 182,800 hectares or 8% of the region. of our upland rivers. Rivers flowing off the moors are also the source of 90% of drinking The South West uplands contain distinctive water provided to homes and businesses in habitats – blanket bog, heather moorland, Devon and Cornwall. western heath and valley mires. Over 42,800 ha of the South West uplands are notified as Public access onto the uplands provides Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). The places for people who seek both tranquillity region’s upland habitats are prime sites for and more active forms of recreation. In 2005 wildlife. They support significant populations on Dartmoor alone, there were 4.3 million day of key bird and butterfly species. They contain visits. The spend from these trips makes a all of southern Britain’s breeding ring ouzel, significant contribution to both the local and dunlin and red grouse. The high brown regional economy. © N a t u r a l E n g l a n d / A n d y G u y

22 State of the natural environment in the South West Merrivale Stone Rows , Dartmoor ©

The current landscape of the uplands is N a t shaped to a large degree by its land use u r a l

systems, predominantly livestock farming and E n g

to a lesser extent forestry. Common l a n

Agricultural Policy reforms are having major d / S i impacts on the profitability of farming on the m o moorland. As a consequence, livestock n B a

numbers, particularly of beef herds, have t e declined significantly in recent years, leading s to reduced grazing in the uplands.

The fragility of the ecosystems of the uplands means that they are highly sensitive to environmental change. The implication of Restoration dam on an Exmoor mire changing climatic conditions on the upland environment is an area where further Started in 1998, the Exmoor Mire research is needed. Impacts are likely to be Restoration project is restoring and complex. Higher mean annual temperatures re-wetting blanket bog damaged by and lower summer rainfall could adversely agricultural drainage, peat cutting and affect upland ecosystems and water supply, moorland reclamation. Restoration while greater intensity rainfall events could work is taking place at twelve locations lead to more frequent localised flooding and and repaired ditches are now becoming higher rates of soil erosion. colonised by mire plants. In this way the moors are being stitched back Responses together, removing the scars of old Natural England seeks to promote sustainable drainage ditches. land use and management that secures the future of the upland environment. We are The project is managed by a dedicated working with partners to develop initiatives project officer and there is a steering that improve the condition of upland habitats group comprised of representatives and landscape while protecting the social from the five main partners: Exmoor fabric and historic environment of our National Park Authority, Natural uplands. England, Environment Agency, South West Water plc and English Heritage. One focus of our work is to maximise the contribution the uplands can make to A similar mire restoration project is reducing the rate of future climate change. being developed for Dartmoor. Enormous quantities of carbon are locked up in the peat soils of the South West uplands. More information is available at Reducing oxidation and erosion of these soils www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/Mire will prevent the release of millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, while blanket bog restoration encourages new peat formation and future carbon storage.

N Natural England has also supported the South a t u West Uplands Task Force convened to raise r a l

E the profile of upland farming and the n g

l contribution it makes to public goods and a n

d services. The Task Force includes a range of / S t

e statutory and non-statutory bodies, as well as p

h landowner interests. e n D a v

i Challenges s Changing land management practices in the uplands, particularly a decline in livestock Marsh fritillary butterfly grazing, threaten landscape character, wildlife habitats, flood risk management, carbon storage and opportunities for The Two Moors Butterfly project is a recreation. A key challenge for Natural partnership initiative addressing the England and its partners is to secure a decline of three key species on sustainable land management system that Dartmoor & Exmoor: the marsh fritillary, both enables land managers to survive in the the heath fritillary and the high brown harsh conditions of the South West uplands fritillary. Although their habitat and that delivers a healthy natural requirements are different, these environment that can adapt to the impacts species all face similar pressures from of climate change. changes in grazing regimes and agricultural improvement. Specialist Nationally, Natural England is leading a habitat management advice has been consultation to guide the development of an provided to local landowners and approach that secures the future of our training events have been arranged for uplands. The principles and vision we have contractors and conservation developed will stimulate debate and inform professionals. With agri-environment the decisions made today for tomorrow. We funding, habitat restoration work has must ensure that our local stakeholders are taken place across 65 key sites for involved in the consultation process so that butterflies. Managing habitat for the issues pertinent to the South West are fritillaries has also benefited other captured. We want regional decision makers butterfly and moth species, as well as to continue working with us on the upland dormice and barn owls. futures debate in the South West.

A further challenge is to assess the value and raise awareness of the public goods and Together with partners, Natural England and services that the uplands provide, both for Dartmoor National Park Authority have local communities and the wider region. produced the Dartmoor Vision, a document Improving the evidence base will allow us to which captures what organisations want the determine, for instance, whether current moorland areas of Dartmoor to look like in funding packages give fair reward to land 2030. Following its publication an alliance of managers and livestock farmers for the part farmers and contributing organisations has they play in delivering these public goods continued to work closely to identify the and services. solutions to deliver the Vision.

24 State of the natural environment in the South West 2.6 Climate change Responses Natural England is committed to developing Evidence and implementing a range of responses to The rate of climate change is accelerating as help the natural environment adapt to a consequence of human activities. We are climate change, while mitigating further locked into 50 years of irreversible climate greenhouse gas emissions. change as a result of greenhouse gases already emitted into the atmosphere. This will Our climate change adaptation related work affect everybody and has massive implications includes re-connecting wetland sites at Goss for the region’s environment, society and Moor National Nature Reserve to help the economy. population of marsh fritillary butterflies become more resilient to extreme weather In the South West the annual average events. At Porlock Bay the natural breach of maximum temperature has increased by an artificially maintained shingle ridge in 1.5°C in 45 years. By comparison, it took 1996 is now creating new saltmarsh with 20,000 years for the earth to warm by 5°C benefits to biodiversity, fisheries, nutrient from the last ice age. In the last 40 years recycling, and carbon storage. Monitoring there has also been a 29% increase in autumn of the ridge will advance our understanding rainfall and a 9% decrease in summer rainfall of coastal processes as climate changes. in the region. We need to prepare for a South West that, by 2050, could be 3.5°C warmer and The peatlands of our region are hugely 30% drier in summer and 2°C warmer and 15% important, particularly for absorbing and wetter in winter. Extreme weather events are locking up man-made carbon dioxide also predicted to increase in frequency and emissions. The Exmoor Mire Restoration intensity. project (see page 23) has successfully restored 200 ha of peatland since 1998. Our agri- Climate change presents a range of both environment funding is also encouraging threats and opportunities to our natural landowners to lock in carbon and connect environment. For example an expansion of existing wildlife sites, while Catchment arable farming may occur in response to Sensitive Farming projects improve soil longer growing seasons which could have a husbandry, reduce runoff, improve rain negative impact on wildlife, landscape infiltration, and thereby reduce the risks of character, buried archaeology and access. flash flooding. There may, however, be opportunities for new woodlands in floodplains to mitigate flooding A nationwide audit of greenhouse gas and provide a source of renewable fuel. emissions on 200 farms in 2006/07 identified Climate change is a huge threat to the coastal short and long term actions to reduce these areas of the South West. Average sea levels emissions. This information is being used to have risen by 125 mm since 1946. Future sea help us improve the ability of six farms in the level rises of between 200 and 800 mm are region to reduce energy use and to identify predicted by the 2080s which will impact on opportunities to lock up carbon to enable the coastal settlements as well as key farms to potentially benefit from emerging infrastructure such as the main rail link at carbon markets. Dawlish. Many marine species are likely to move in response to rising sea temperature, which could impact on fisheries as well as general marine biodiversity. Rising acidity of oceans as a result of increased carbon dioxide absorption has huge implications for marine life such as oxygen producing plankton.

Arable buffer strip on the Dorset Downs

We want regional and local government to As part of our Adapting to Climate implement policies that increase the size and Change project, Natural England has quality of habitat within the Strategic Nature carried out a study to look at the likely Areas identified on the South West Nature impacts of climate change on the Dorset Map. We call on the South West Regional Downs and Cranborne Chase. By 2080 we Development Agency and Defra to provide expect the climate of the study area to funding to help achieve this goal. resemble that of present day Portugal. For many this will be a pleasant image. In the region there are around 20,000 properties The reality is likely to be increased risk of at risk from coastal erosion. Coastal flooding drought and associated water shortages, costs taxpayers £0.5 billion per year and could flooding, soil erosion and bushfires. This rise to £13.5 billion unless adaptive measures has contributed to debates in the region are put in place. We are working with a range of about how we respond to climate change partners to produce Shoreline Management and will help us and partners make Plans which use natural processes as a response well-informed decisions to maximise to sea level rise. We wish to create 100 ha of the opportunities and minimise the new habitat by managed realignment by 2010 threats that climate change brings. More and 1,000 ha by 2015. information is available at www.naturalengland.org.uk/regions/ 70% of our drinking water comes from the south_west/ourwork uplands, but climate change threatens their ability to provide clean, ample drinking water in future. We want Ofwat to support our joint bid with South West Water to restore the Challenges region’s peatlands. Climate change will affect everyone. The economic, social and environmental benefits An ambitious programme to cut emissions is of a low-carbon economy need to be brought essential and will need to include energy into sharper focus if broad coalitions of efficiency measures, the deployment of support are to be established. This has been renewable technologies (onshore and recognised in the first South West Climate offshore wind) and major shifts in personal Change Action Plan produced in September behaviour. Practising what we preach, Natural 2008, which outlines the challenges ahead England is reducing its carbon footprint from and identifies actions for a range of partners its own operations. We will halve our including Natural England. emissions between 2006 and 2011.

26 State of the natural environment in the South West Chapter 3 Meeting the challenge in the South West

Natural England’s challenge is to protect our To protect our natural environment for its landscapes, seascapes, urban green spaces intrinsic value and to ensure that it continues and their biodiversity for present and future to provide the range of ecosystem goods and generations while allowing them to continue services that are critical to our survival we will: to meet the needs of residents, businesses ࡯ continue to work with partners to ensure and visitors. environmental stewardship resources are targeted at priority areas and habitats, The evidence presented in this report shows whilst contributing to profitable, that our environment is under pressure. Our sustainable farm businesses, so that the responses described in this report show that region’s biodiversity can be maintained targeted action can make a difference. and increased; ࡯ But we need to do more, and we cannot do it do more to help people and nature be more alone. The economic downturn combined resilient, as well as adapt, to climate change with climate change present huge challenges through promoting and delivering land but there are also opportunities to take a management that locks-in carbon, soaks up different approach. A coordinated and long excess rainwater to prevent flooding and term response is needed to create a connects existing wildlife sites; sustainable South West, in partnership with ࡯ continue to work closely with the South national, regional and local government, West Regional Development Agency and voluntary bodies, other agencies and local the Forestry Commission on delivery of the communities. Rural Development Plan for England; © S h a r o n N e a l e

Widemouth Bay, Cornwall State of the natural environment in the South West 27 ࡯ work with communities and the marine ࡯ promote the natural environment as a industries through the Finding Sanctuary ‘natural health service’, working with health project, to identify and establish a network and local authorities to raise awareness of of Marine Protected Areas. These will the physical and mental benefits of green include newly designated Marine exercise and contact with the natural Conservation Zones and Marine Special environment; Areas of Conservation; ࡯ ensure our National Nature Reserves ࡯ engage with partners, in particular local maximise the opportunities to connect planning authorities and the South West people with the natural environment; Green Infrastructure Network Group, to ࡯ maintain the region’s National Trails as ensure that the conservation and internationally recognised recreation routes enhancement of the natural environment and deliver new and improved and people’s wellbeing are fully integrated opportunities to access the natural in housing, infrastructure and transport environment, drawing on the expertise and projects; knowledge of local authorities and other partners; © N

a ࡯ ensure our protected landscapes are well t u

r managed, distinctive and act as exemplars a l E of integrated management for the wider n g l

a countryside; n d /

P ࡯ work with land managers and other a u

l stakeholders to secure the future for our G l e uplands through sustainable land n d

e management that delivers a range of l l essential public goods and services; ࡯ and most importantly, we will work to persuade key decision-makers in the region to invest in a resilient natural environment that can adapt to climate change.

Wildlife-rich land and seascapes are our planet’s life support systems. They provide essential services but should also be valued for their own sake. By taking action together we can put the South West on a greener path to a more secure future.

Renewable energy on Kingsbridge Farm

28 State of the natural environment in the South West Natural England in the South West region

Natural England offices Biodiversity: Bristol Tel: 0117 959 1000 Naomi Brookes/Matt Low Cheltenham Tel: 01242 521381 Tel: 0300 060 0095/0300 060 1643 Devizes Tel: 01380 726344 [email protected] Exeter Tel: 0300 060 1110 [email protected] Taunton Tel: 0300 060 2570 Truro Tel: 0300 060 2544 Enjoying the natural environment: Wareham Tel: 01929 557450 Neil Constable Tel: 0300 060 1259 Regional Director: [email protected] Janette Ward Tel: 0300 060 1952 Sustainable land management: [email protected] Phil Tolerton Tel: 0117 959 8544 Regional Advocacy and Partnerships Team [email protected] Manager: Philip Collins The maritime environment: Tel: 0300 060 1814 Roger Covey [email protected] Tel: 0300 060 1085 [email protected] Area Managers: Matthew Carter Green Infrastructure/land use planning: (Cornwall, Devon, and Isles of Scilly) Mark Jones Tel: 01872 245063 Tel: 0300 060 1084 [email protected] [email protected]

Mark Watson (Dorset and Somerset) Health and the environment: Tel: 0300 060 0517 Mark Bridges [email protected] Tel: 0300 060 0287 [email protected] Gerry Hamersley (Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and West of England) The uplands: Tel: 01380 737006 Eamon Crowe [email protected] Tel: 0300 060 0188 [email protected] Landscape: Cathy Fitzroy/Chris Bolton Climate change: Tel: 0300 060 1273/0300 060 0587 Simon Bates [email protected] Tel: 0300 060 1700 [email protected] [email protected]

State of the natural environment in the South West 29

Natural England is here to conserve Natural England publications are and enhance the natural environment, available as accessible PDFs from for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing www.naturalengland.org.uk/publications. and enjoyment of people and the economic prosperity that it brings. Should an alternative format of this publication be required, please contact © Natural England 2009 our enquiries line for more information: 0845 600 3078 or email ISBN 978-1-84754-105-4 [email protected]

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