Brownfield Biodiversity

The biodiversity value of brownfield land is often underestimated, with sites frequently described as being ‘unsightly’ and their ecological value misunderstood. The aim of this project was to gain a better understanding of the Brownfield biodiversity resource that exists across South East Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside and to demonstrate its relative value.

This project took place over three phases

Stage 1: Scoping exercise

This included a desk top study to identify all brownfield, under-utilised and poorly remediated sites within the defined project area.  Stakeholders met to set criteria for selecting those sites to be surveyed

Stage 2: Survey Work

Selected sites underwent an extended Phase 1 habitat survey.  Community groups and volunteers were involved in undertaking brownfield site habitat surveys

Stage 3: Mapping

The sites and the data collected were mapped using computer software and a project report has been produced. The relative value of brownfield sites for biodiversity has been assessed to highlight those that might need greater protection and/or mitigation

Lead partner

Groundwork Northumberland

Other partners

Blyth Valley Borough Council, Newcastle City Council, North Tyneside Council, Wansbeck District Council, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Northumberland Biodiversity Partnership

Action plans that the project helps to deliver

Brownfield Land

Start date

January 2007

End date

March 2009

Funded by

Natural England, Blyth Valley, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Wansbeck District Councils

Who to contact for further information

Vicki Sixsmith
vicki.sixsmith@groundwork.org.uk
01670 514876