Wittenham Clumps designated Special Area of Conservation
The Wittenham Clumps are designated a Special Area of Conservation by the European Union.
The Northmoor Trust is delighted to announce that its Little Wittenham Nature Reserve, best known for the prominence of the Wittenham Clumps, is to be the 236th Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in the UK.
The designation is a key measure to ensure the protection and enhancement of biodiversity, and together with all the UK sites, form a network across the European Union.
The designation further enhances Little Wittenham Nature Reserve’s conservation status with the site currently:
The nature reserve at Little Wittenham lies on two small hills overlooking the fertile Thames floodplain.
The reserve is approximately half woodland and half grassland. The reserve’s grassland areas are grazed with sheep and cattle.
The Reserve's two large ponds and the surrounding mature woodland habitat have been recognised due to the presence of the great crested newt, breeding dragonflies and other breeding amphibians.
This wildlife haven is already a major draw for visitors from across the region.
Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London and Newt enthusiast commenting on the news of the designation said, “Many congratulations to the Northmoor Trust for achieving European recognition of the important conservation work on Little Wittenham Nature Reserve. As an enthusiast for the Great Crested Newt, which is an endangered species, I am delighted that your work of protecting, enhancing and publicising this delightful animal and the wider reserve that supports it, has been recognised in this way.”
Dr Andy Clements, Director of Protected Areas at English Nature added, “It is encouraging that the work of the individuals in this Trust is recognised at the international level by the designation of the SAC. These sites are the vital high quality network of areas protected for wildlife across Europe. They are the essential minimum for a healthy and flourishing environment.”
Chris Parker, Nature Reserve Manager for the Northmoor Trust commented, “All of those who have worked, visited or live near the reserve know how important it is. We are delighted that it has been well and truly recognised, the whole Northmoor Trust shares in the success of this designation and we look forward to the year ahead with many improvements planned for both visitors to the reserve, and the wildlife contained within it.”
