Natural England

Natural England today (11 July) welcomes the realignment of the A30 away from Goss Moor - a protected European Special Area of Conservation and one of South West England's largest wetlands.

For the first time in the UK a major trunk road has been diverted away from a protected conservation area.

The opening of this new section of road means that the constant stream of traffic that historically bisected Goss Moor National Nature Reserve will now go around it.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England said: "The environmental impact of road building is usually a cause for concern for Natural England but the re-alignment of the A30 trunk road to the north of Goss Moor is a promising development, setting a new standard for future road building projects.

"Goss Moor, which has been divided by the A30, is now effectively reunited, meaning that rare wildlife such as dormice, adders and the marsh fritillary butterfly will be able to move around the reserve freely."

More people will be able to enjoy its beauty safely through the establishment of the recreational path along the old route which will eventually form part of a 7 mile circular multi-use trail around the Moor, due for completion in Spring 2008.

Sir Martin Doughty went on to say, "This is a fantastic example of the merits of partnership working. By seizing the opportunity to work together, both Natural England and the Highways Agency have achieved far more and are able to deliver a greatly improved road, nature reserve and new access opportunities."

For more information, please telephone: Paul Wynne - 07900 608049; Press office - 0845 603 9953; Out of hours - 07970 098005.

Notes to Editors

• Photos are available of Goss Moor, doormice, adders and marsh fritillary butterflies from the Natural England press office
• Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. We increase opportunities to make the natural environment an enriching part of people's everyday lives, and improve its long term security by contributing to the sustainable management of our natural resources.
• National Nature Reserves like Goss Moor give the public a chance to experience at first hand a wide variety of wildlife. Designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) by Natural England, they are internationally significant and safeguarded under European law.
• The road was formally opened at 11.00 am at location by Tom Harris MP, Minister of State for Transport;
• The Mid Cornwall Moors LIFE Project involving Natural England, Highways Agency, and other environmental groups has also been established on the Moor to restore the habitat with match funding of £1.2m from the European Commission.