Natural England

Natural England and Bournemouth Borough Council are celebrating the declaration of the Boscombe and Southbourne Overcliff as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). This is a large area (nearly 9ha or 23 acres – equivalent to around 25 football pitches) of the famous Cliffs which are rich in wildlife and geology: the area is already known to be one of the most important wildlife sites in Dorset.

This is the 9th Local Nature Reserve to be declared by Bournemouth Borough Council.

Several rare species of both plants and animals are found on the Cliffs. The uncommon acid grassland supports an interesting community of plants, some of which are found in only a few other places in Britain; species include hairy birds-foot trefoil and mossy stonecrop. The patches of gorse provide ideal nesting habitat for birds such as the Stonechat and the internationally protected Dartford warbler.

In the summer, colourful butterflies are a feature as are a number of other, less obvious, insects. These include the fascinating bee-killer wasp (or bee wolf) that can be seen carrying its honey bee prey to its burrow.

In recent years the site has become well known because of two species of reptile that are found here. These are wall lizard and green lizard, neither of which are native to mainland Britain. Both are thriving but it is not yet clear what impact their presence is having on the native wildlife.

The Overcliff is a popular and important open space for recreational activities, especially dog walking and the designation as Local Nature Reserve will not affect the recreational use of the site.

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, portfolio holder for the Economy and Tourism is delighted with the news. She said,

“There is no doubt that the LNR designation is fully warranted and it is envisaged that it will contribute to the protection of the wildlife found here. It will also help to promote the ecological value amongst local residents and others who visit this special place.”

Helen Powell of Natural England said,

“We are delighted that Bournemouth has declared this fascinating area of the Borough as a Local Nature Reserve. It is clearly valued by the local community for its wildlife and the enjoyment that brings to local people and visitors alike.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Natural England Press Office – 01929 557450
Natural England contact: Helen Powell: 078 333 87913 / 01929 557450

Bournemouth Borough Council Leisure Services press contact
Elizabeth Wood - PR & Promotions Officer
Bournemouth Borough Council Leisure Services
Direct line: 01202 436889
Email: elizabeth.wood@bournemouth.gov.uk

USEFUL FACTS

1. Local Nature Reserves are designated under Section 19 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949

2. Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are for both people and wildlife. They are places with wildlife or geological features that are of special interest locally. They offer people special opportunities to study or learn about nature or simply to enjoy it.

3. There are now over 1050 LNRs in England and with the declaration of Boscombe and Southbourne Overcliff there are now 47 in Dorset. They range from windswept coastal headlands, ancient woodlands and flower-rich meadows to former inner city railways, long abandoned landfill sites and industrial areas now re-colonised by wildlife. In total they cover almost 40,000 ha - an impressive natural resource which makes an important contribution to England's biodiversity.

4. Existing Bournemouth Borough Council Local Nature Reserves include: Hengistbury Head, Turbary Common, Kinson Common, Stour Valley meadows, Milhams Mead, Iford Meadows, Pug’s Hole, Redhill Common.

5. Natural England is here to conserve and enhance the natural environment, for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people and the economic prosperity it brings.