Natural England has today (Friday, October 7) announced that Penwith Moors, a 3,1000ha area of lowland health in west Cornwall, has been designated as a Site of Special and Scientific Interest (SSSI).
An SSSI label means that a site is one of the country’s very best wildlife and/or geological sites; Penwith Moors has been chosen in recognition of its national importance for wildlife.
The site is home to rare and endangered plants such as coral-necklace, pale dog-violet, pillwort and Cornish moneywort, which are found among habitats of rare lichens growing on the outcrops of granite rock.
The area also supports a rich diversity of invertebrates nestled in the heathland.
“An incredible variety of rare plants, insects and birds thrive in the rich tapestry of the Penwith Moors landscape,” Wesley Smyth, area manager at Natural England said.
“This SSSI designation will help protect and restore sites of national importance to wildlife, with farming and nature continuing to co-exist and shape the landscape.
“We will continue to support farmers and the local people who live, work and visit the Penwith Moors to drive nature recovery and support sustainable uses for this site,” he added.
Penwith Moors has a long history of agriculture and livestock grazing, with many of the 4000-year-old field systems still used for their original purpose, according to Natural England.
While the decision to notify this area as an SSSI follows extensive assessments by Natural England of its habitats and species, a four-month period of consultation will open shortly, during which anyone may comment on, or object to, the notification.
The SSSI designation will then be confirmed, amended or withdrawn within nine months of the notification.
Once notified, farmers and other land managers must apply to Natural England for consent to carry out certain activities on the land.
Natural England may grant consent, with or without conditions, or refuse consent. If refused or conditions are imposed, land managers have a right of appeal.
