Nature reserve is safeguarded for the future

A green haven in Capel St Mary is set to be preserved for generations to come.

Cabinet members at Babergh District Council voted to protect and preserve Capel St Mary Nature Reserve seeking official status for the site as a nationally-recognised Local Nature Reserve.

A report to the councillors highlighted the site’s ecological significance and distinct biodiversity as well as its value for community engagement with natural heritage.

In accordance with Natural England Regulations, the declaration as a Local Nature Reserve will safeguard the site from alternative uses which may cause harm to the biodiversity.

Across 1.7ha, the reserve is home to woodland, grassland and hedgerow, which alongside a neighbouring stream, makes it an ideal habitat for a wide range of species including a number of protected animals such as barn owls and stag beetles.

Helen Davies, the cabinet member for Climate Change, Nature Recovery and Biodiversity, said: “Capel St Mary Nature Reserve is a truly wonderful woodland and getting to this stage has only been made possible with close collaboration with Capel St Mary Parish Council.

“I am so pleased that we have been able to play our part in making sure it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

“With sightings of cuckoos, nightingales, bats and otters in the site and surrounding area, we are hopeful that by declaring it as a Local Nature Reserve and through careful management, we will not only safeguard on the existing biodiversity, but ultimately, increase it.”

Following Babergh District Council’s declaration of a Local Nature Reserve, Natural England will now approve to finalise the decision.