How are they chosen
Local Wildlife Sites in Kent are selected by reference to a clear set of criteria, based on the importance of the sites for particular wildlife habitats or wild species. The selection process also draws on the expertise of some of the county’s most experienced and knowledgeable naturalists.
Information on sites is gathered from a range of sources, including targeted site surveys, the county-wide Kent Habitat Survey, and specialist natural history organisations. Targeted surveys to identify potential Local Wildlife Sites are always carried out with the permission of the land-owners concerned.
People who own land which is partly are wholly within a Local Wildlife Site (formerly SNCI) may be eligible for low cost advice and assistance from Kent Wildlife Trust.
The Trust's Land Management Advisory Service is able to offer help with:
- Finding and applying for grant aid, and funding.
- Preparation of Farm Environment Plans.
- Preparation of management plans and provision of management advice.
For more information, contact our Land Management Adviser, Neil Coombs, or Land Management Advisory Assistant, Lyndsey Rule. To find out if your land qualifies as a Local Wildlife Site contact our LWS specialist Alison Riggs.
Do land owners have a say
Since 2005, land-owners and local authorities are also consulted before any land is designated as a Local Wildlife Site. This is to make sure that sites are only designated where there is a good scientific basis for doing so, and to check the accuracy of the survey information and the proposed site boundaries.
Key statutory bodies
Kent Wildlife Trust manages the Local Wildlife Sites system in Kent, but the Kent Biodiversity Steering Group makes the final decision on the criteria by which sites should be chosen, and on the selection of individual sites.
This steering group includes representatives from wildlife bodies, local authorities, and organisations representing land-owners and farmers.
