LPA: Northumberland

NCA: Tyne Gap and Hadrian's Wall

Biodiversity Units:

Gain site: BGS-071024001

Overlooking the Tyne Valley, this lowland meadow site within a Habitat Network Expansion Zone is being transformed into a wildflower-rich grassland to boost biodiversity. Managed by the passionate Owner and Habitat Manager, quick unit agreements are possible. Already registered with Natural England, the site supports a growing number of wildflowers, grasses, insects, butterflies, bats, and birds, enhancing local ecological connectivity.

Assessed in July 2023 using the BNG Metric, the site has been surveyed by ecologists, wildflower and meadow specialists (including ex-Natural England) and seed experts. Soil surveys were undertaken, plus two visits from the NCC County Ecologist team. An existing seed bank offers strong confidence in the meadow's success.

Methodology

A detailed Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) has been agreed alongside a S106 Agreement which broadly entails:

• Scarify and supplementary re-seeding with local wildflower seed (K Wharf – Rothbury). Year 1.
• Graze Oct / Nov, Feb / March.
• Cut for Hay in the traditional manner (July / Aug). ·Monitoring and adaptive management.

The intent is to reduce soil nutrients and allow wildflowers to proliferate giving nature a helping hand. Confidence of success is high.
Responsibility for success lies with the Landowner. Any recourse is secured by NCC as part of the S106 Agreement, not the BNG Unit Buyer.

Partnership

The Owner welcomes BNG Unit Buyers to be part of the site's story. With a public footpath crossing the land, images and potential signage are possible. As demand grows for businesses to showcase environmental efforts, this nature-rich site offers a strong opportunity for Buyer PR and credibility.

Conversion progess

• Baseline Metric Survey
• Area Enhancement
• Registered