Where the Wild Things Are

Dragonfly-emerging-Local-Wildlife-Sites-L-MaidenThis project will represent an innovative change in approach to the management of and public engagement with some of Powys’ most underappreciated wildlife spaces; Local Wildlife Sites (LWS).

From mystical ancient woodlands to quiet churchyards and bustling flower-rich roadsides; and from field-bordering hedgerows to tiny copses the UK enjoys special, often unnoticed wild places where nature thrives. Whether they are in the depths of the countryside or nestled in busy towns and cities, Local Wildlife Sites are the most important places for nature, outside of protected areas such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Powys’ Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) are truly exceptional areas of land, vital for both wildlife and people. However, despite being part of the planning system, these sites and the services they provide to the local community (e.g. access, tourism, health and well-being) are under threat like never before.

This project aims to tackle this threat by giving the people of Powys a reason to leave their living rooms and step into a whole new world “Where the Wild Things Are…” often just round the corner or down the street.

Working across Powys, Montgomeryshire, Radnorshire and Brecknock Wildlife Trusts will be:

  • Overhauling the existing system by which Powys’ LWS are assessed and selected to ensure that this process is easily workable and fully embedded within the planning system into the future
  • Building a legacy of supportive community ownership and engagement with LWS by providing people with volunteering opportunities which will improve their local area for the benefit of people and wildlife
  • Developing and implementing LWS survey and sustainable land management methodologies suitable for landowners, farmers, and volunteers
  • Supporting enhanced access to existing and future LWS to ensure maximum health and well-being gains for local people
  • ‘Valuing’ the role that the LWS network plays in the health and well-being of our social and ecological communities

Find out more on Local Wildlife Sites.

If you are the owner of a Local Wildlife Site or if you think your land may qualify, Tammy Stretton, Project Coordinator, would love to hear from you tammy@montwt.co.uk – & phone number – 01938 555654.

Cronfa Amaethyddol Eqrop ar gyfer Datblygu Gwledif; Ewrop yn Buddsoddi mewn Ardaloedd Gwledig
The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in Rural Areas