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Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
These are sites designated by English Nature (EN) [formerly the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC)] to protect features of our countryside and wildlife habitats which are considered to be worthy of conservation from the threat of wilful or accidental destruction by harmful use, management or development.
In fact SSSI's have existed since the 1949 National Parks and Access to the
Countryside Act, but were not effectively administered. During the past
30 years a growing number of nations have become aware of our dependence
on our natural environment and its erosion by urbanisation and modern
farming methods. The British Government joined other countries in
drawing up international agreements and EEC Directives to protect
wildlife.
For our part new legislation was required which promoted the 1981 Wildlife and
Countryside Act, part of which is devoted to SSSIs (the Basingstoke
Canal had several) and re-notification under the Act. Local
naturalist groups often assist with this work.
Once the EA is satisfied with the merit of designating an SSSI it will issue a
citation informing the Secretary of State, the relevant local planning
authority and the landowner or occupier.
Sites are protected
from the moment a citation is received although the owner or occupier
has three months in which to raise objections. And English Nature
must either confirm or withdraw a notification within nine months of
informing the Secretary of State.
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