The decision ensures the sites should not be adversely affected by future development and encourages and protects the conservation of wildlife and the natural environment.
The areas identified are the first of 100 designated sites the Council plans to protect by 2030 as part of its ‘Climate and Nature Emergency Plan’, adopted in June 2021. It is also a priority action in the Council’s ‘Alive With Nature’ plan.
Councillors agreed to the designation of the 13 sites, from Killearn Glen to Manor Powis Bing, at a meeting of the Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee on Thursday (1 June).
Consultation
The other sites are: Abbey Craig; Allan Water – Ashfield to Laigh Hills; Blairdrummond Pit/Daira Lochs; Broomridge; Cocksburn Reservoir; Daldorn Lochs; Doune Ponds; Kippen Common; Landrick Woods; Old Wharry Burn and Thornhill North Common.
The decision follows a 12-week public consultation between September and November 2022, with the majority of consultation responses supporting the proposals.
Local Nature Conservation Sites are designated as a result of the diversity of species in each area, as well as species and habitat rarity. Criteria also includes the potential to promote the enjoyment and understanding of natural landscapes.
Delegate
Sites with this status should not be adversely affected by future developments. In turn, this should give each area an appropriate level of protection to continue to flourish, helping to tackle the nature crisis and the global climate emergency.
Future designations will be considered following the same process and will be reported annually.
The Council report can be read here and a recording of the meeting can be viewed on the Council’s webcast page.
The Council’s ‘Alive with Nature’ Plan can be viewed here: Our natural environment | Stirling Council
The Council’s Climate and Nature Emergency Plan can be viewed here: Climate and Nature Emergency Plan | Stirling Council