Flora and fauna wins special status for West Pennine Moors
THE rugged beauty and wildlife of the West Pennine Moors has received special conservation protection.
Separated from the main ranges of the Pennines by the Irwell Valley, the sprawling moorland spans almost 100 square miles and links Greater Manchester with Lancashire.
Natural England, which advises the government, has now approved the moors as a site of special scientific interest (SSSI).
The management of blanket bogs on the moors will be carried out sensitively through grazing and water levels around peat bogs will be maintained to ensure a healthy habitat.
Natural England said it is the largest new site of special scientific interest awarded by the body in 13 years.
Bosses said the move reflects the ‘national significance of the area and its combination of upland habitats, moorland fringe grasslands and woodland’.
The moors are home to breeding birds including merlin, curlew, snipe, lapwing and redshank. There are also large breeding colonies of both blackheaded and Mediterranean gulls.
Natural England’s chief executive, James Cross, said: “Conservation is not about holding things back, but about moving them forward. This is a significant moment for the protection of wildlife across a wild and beautiful expanse of north west England.
“Our upland landscapes provide vital wildlife habitats and clean water, reduce flood risk and bring enjoyment and a sense of wellbeing to millions of people.”
The body said it would work with landowners to continue to protect and enhance the moors, home to popular walking routes and reservoirs including Winter Hill and Anglezarke and Rivington.
Bordering Rochdale and Oldham, the hills also provide clean drinking water for thousands of households and play a part in reducing flood risks.
Mike Burke, Natural England’s area manager for Cheshire and Lancashire, said the status would help secure the widest possible commitment to the conservation of the West Pennines Moors.
“It confers special legal protection and recognises the national scientific importance of its mosaic of upland habitats and populations of breeding birds.
“We will continue to work with all farmers, landowners and conservation groups across the area over the coming weeks and months to explain the importance of this designation and agree how we can work together to protect the area now and in the future.”