I would like to ask for some information regarding the protection of the Bittern. I live in the south of Wigan near to junction 25 of the M6. Wigan council have proposed a development on green belt land covering 40 hectares of storage and distribution units. The land covers small fishing ponds and marshes and is adjacent to a regional wetland site. The area has been described as a hotspot for biodiversity by David Bellamy when he visited the area in 2007 and is home to Bitterns, Willow Tits, Red Squirrels,Water Voles, Great Crested Newt, Roe Deer and many others.
The plans have been approved at council level and the next stage is for this to be presented to Government to have the green belt status over-turned. I was wondering if anyone had any experience of objecting to such plans that involve protected species. Any information or advice you could provide would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Kathryn
Hi Kathryn,
I think the RSPB staff will respond on this one tomorrow, but in the meantime you may be able to find some ideas on this link
If it is an area where people watch wildlife on a regular basis a copy of their sightings may strengthen the case againt the proposal,if Bitters are involved I feel sure the local Wildlife trust as well as the RSPB will want to follow up the case,also the local media may wish to take the case up
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
Hi Kathryn
Sue and Seaman have both given really sound advice, the link to our Take action for wildlife pages contains all the relevant information you need in order to put an opposal together against potentially damaging developments.
With regards to the site near Wigan, i believe you are referring to an area that is managed by the local Wildlife Trusts and the Wigan Flashes Conservation group, project managed by Mark Champion. Contacting them would certainly be worthwhile.
Warden Intern at Otmoor.