Proposals to Safeguard Key Regional Habitats

Initiatives have been unveiled to enhance the protection of two internationally recognized natural habitats from “costly unplanned development.” Members of the public are invited to review proposed new safeguards for the uplands of the South Pennine Moors and the peat bog area of Holcroft Moss in Warrington. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority aims to provide clearer guidance on permissible construction near such areas and the necessary mitigation measures required before development plans can receive approval. Paul Dennett, Salford City Mayor and the combined authority’s lead for sustainable development, stated that these proposals are designed to help protect the “most important habitats in and around our city region.” The introduction of these safeguards falls under Greater Manchester’s Places for Everyone, a framework that designates land for development across nine of the region’s ten boroughs. Stockport is the only borough not included in this scheme. The South Pennine Moors is a designated conservation area, recognized as a significant habitat for birds. Species such as Merlins, golden plovers, and short-eared owls are among those the new safeguards aim to protect. Any proposed development within 1.5 miles (2.5km) of the moors will first necessitate habitat surveys. Furthermore, a prohibition on development will apply within 440 yards (400m) of the moors, unless specific criteria are met. A separate consultation has also been initiated for Holcroft Moss, a protected area of lowland bog. This site is known as the only area in Cheshire that has never been cut for peat. The potential impact of traffic pollution on the nearby area, which is situated close to the M62, may need to be considered before any development plans are approved. The nine local authorities involved in Places for Everyone, along with Warrington Borough Council, have also put forward a package of restoration measures intended to improve the peat habitat’s resilience to air pollution. These consultations are scheduled to conclude on 12 December.