Saturday, 6 September 2008
Local Sites are non-statutory sites designated by the Local Planning Authority, and representing a comprehensive suite of locally and regionally important wildlife and geological features. These sites are also known locally as ‘Sites of Scientific Interest’ (SSI’s), and Regionally ‘Important Geological Sites’ (RIGS).
Local Sites contribute significantly to habitat and green infrastructure networks. Their designation helps to address not only biodiversity and geodiversity conservation targets, but also contributes towards enriching quality of life, the preservation of local character, providing broader ecosystem services (flooding and climate change), open space and provision of opportunities for health, education and research.
The newly formed Doncaster Local Site Partnership is currently undertaking a review of the Borough’s Local Sites as part of the Local Development Framework process. The review process will include consultation on Doncaster’s site selection criteria and proposed boundaries, following initial assessment by the Partnership.
Doncaster’s Local Site boundaries will be able to be viewed via this webpage shortly. Individual site citations, which summarise their features of interest, are available for viewing within the Planning Offices, Danum House, St Sepulchre Gate.
Please note that Local Sites are not necessarily accessible to the public and if in any doubt, the landowner should be identified and permission for access sought.
Requests for biological records and geological data associated with Local Sites should be directed to the Local Records Centre at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery (01302 734289) Colin.Howes@doncaster.gov.uk.
Planning advice including pre-application enquiries, should be directed to the Ecologist Planner (01302 734924) Bio.diversity@doncaster.gov.uk.
General advice regarding Local Sites, the Doncaster Review process, evolving Local Sites System and Partnership, should be directed to the Biodiversity Officer (01302 862896) Bio.diversity@doncaster.gov.uk.
Queries relating to the individual management of Doncaster Council owned Local Sites should be directed to the appropriate Neighbourhood Manager (Customer Service line 01302 736000).
