New Site of Special Scientific Interest confirmed in West Cornwall
There are concerns about the impact it could have on farmers
Last updated 29th Jun 2023
A new Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has been confirmed for Cornwall.
West Penwith Moors and Downs now have protected status, despite concerns about the potential impact on farmers.
Penwith Moors has a long history of agriculture and livestock grazing, with many of the 4,000–year-old field systems still used for their original purpose.
Natural England say they value these deep traditions, adding that they are "committed to continuing to support and reward the nature friendly farming that is essential to sustain West Penwith Moors and Downs".
Chair of Natural England, Tony Juniper said: "The designation of West Penwith Moors and Downs as a SSSI reflects how wildlife has flourished under a combination of generations of low-intensity farming activity and the naturally occurring habitats and species.
"We want to work in partnership with farmers to support them in delivering the best possible management to sustain nature in the SSSI and in the surrounding countryside alongside running their farm business."
Reflecting on the Board meeting and reason why the decision was reached, Tony said: "This was a complicated and difficult decision for the Natural England Board, but in the end we decided that the balance of evidence confirmed that these moors and downs should be a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
"While this inevitably creates uncertainty for farmers and others living and working in the landscape, Natural England will continue to provide advice and support to assist land managers in applying for the Countryside Stewardship scheme, to help secure funds to continue the type of farming that is essential to maintaining the natural heritage of this special part of England.
"The urgency to deliver for people and nature is greater than it has ever been. Nature provides us with clean air, food, water and other essential resources. It regulates our climate and is fundamental to our health and well-being. Nature is at the heart of every successful sustainable economy."
NE is also giving advice to Defra as part of the overall development of Environmental Land Management Schemes to make sure those who manage SSSIs such as West Penwith Moors and Downs are properly rewarded for the results for nature that they deliver
The area was designated for SSSI status due to its lowland heathland, fens and dry acid grassland, lichens, wetland valley mires, a breeding population of Dartford warbler, invertebrates, including the rare Perkin's mining bee and tormentil nomad bee and a number of vascular plants, such as coral necklace, a declining plant which grows along wet tracks.