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Open Mosaic Habitats on Previously Developed Land

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Habitat Description

Previously developed land includes redundant urban land which once served a use, such as industry, housing, extractive industry, landfill, or transportation (railway lines) but has now become derelict, allowing natural processes, once again, to take place.

Post-industrial and urban sites often hold diverse and sometimes unusual species assemblages and demonstrate dynamic ecological processes, particularly for invertebrates Buglife reports that brownfield sites have as many associated Red Data Book and Nationally Scarce invertebrate species as ancient woodland. Post-industrial habitats are often, but not always, associated with urban areas. Most previously developed habitats occur within the principal towns of Northampton, Corby and Kettering. The existence of these mosaics of habitat is essential to the survival of many species, both those specific to this type of habitat and to those moving between patches of other habitat. Brownfield sites also provide a refuge for species that would be associated with other habitats, e.g. species rich grasslands, was it not for man's influence on the environment.

Current UK Status and Trends

Declining due to infill development pressure. 

Estimated Current Northants Resource

Unknown but anticipated being concentrated in Northampton, Corby and Kettering. 

Progress Towards BAP Targets 2002-2007

Awaiting update  

Main Issues and Threats

• Development pressure due to historical lack of recognition and the consequently poor history of recording on many urban and post-industrial sites.
• Built development is concentrated in urban areas in order to protect the countryside: The current national target for housing is that 60% of all new housing should be on previously developed land. Unfortunately this has led to the loss of valuable habitats and green space in urban areas.
• Local communities have a strong desire to 'clean-up' previously developed sites, whereas untidiness is more valuable for biodiversity.
• Mismanagement of brownfield sites by 'green washing' importation of topsoil, seeding of grassland, and planting of trees can be devastating to their already rich biodiversity.

General Strategies

• Protect these sites through good use of planning conditions and use Section 106 agreements or conditions to secure funding for long-term management.
• Ensure that green infrastructure is integral in new development schemes.
• Refine the Wildlife Sites designation criteria to allow previously developed land to be designated.
• Identify and survey previously developed sites that may have a high biodiversity value (particularly invertebrates).
• Educate conservationists, local authorities and local people about the value of naturally recolonised habitats.
• Ensure suitable restoration schemes are put in place once industrial use (e.g. landfill or quarrying) of a site ceases.
• Specific target areas are Northampton, Corby and Kettering.

Lead Partner

The Wildlife Trust

Associated National Priority Species

Specific Management Required for Associated Species

Targets

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