BRAMERTON
PARISH COUNCIL

Caring for Nature in Bramerton

Bramerton Parish Council is committed to protecting and enhancing biodiversity throughout the parish. Biodiversity is the variety of life around us – from wildflowers, trees and hedgerows to birds, mammals, insects and fungi – and the habitats that support them. Bramerton Parish Council has adopted a Biodiversity Policy and Action Plan which guides how we manage our land, comment on planning applications and work with residents and partner organisations to protect our natural environment.

Our aim is simple: to leave our green spaces richer in wildlife for future generations.

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Areas of Land

Bramerton Parish Council owns and manages several areas of land that provide important habitats for wildlife and contribute to the character of the parish. Through sensitive management of these green spaces, the Council seeks to protect and enhance biodiversity, supporting native plants, birds, insects and other wildlife while ensuring these areas remain accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors. 

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The Common

The Common is an important green space within the parish, providing habitat for birds, insects, small mammals and native plants.

The Parish Council manages The Common sensitively to:

• protect existing habitats;

• encourage native wildflowers and pollinating insects;

• maintain trees and hedgerows where appropriate;

• minimise disturbance to wildlife while keeping the area safe and accessible;

• work towards long-term ecological improvements through an appropriate management plan.

Visitors are encouraged to help care for The Common by taking litter home, keeping dogs under control where necessary and respecting wildlife.

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The Community Orchard

The Orchard is both a community asset and a valuable wildlife habitat. Fruit trees provide blossom for pollinating insects in spring, fruit for birds and mammals in autumn, and shelter throughout the year.

The Parish Council aims to:

• maintain healthy traditional fruit trees;

• encourage wildflowers beneath the trees where practical;

• support pollinating insects;

• retain dead wood where safe to do so as habitat for insects and fungi;

• encourage community involvement in caring for the orchard.

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Allotments

The parish allotments provide an opportunity for residents to grow their own food while also supporting nature.

Allotment holders are encouraged to:

• plant flowers that attract bees and butterflies;

• provide habitats such as compost heaps, ponds or log piles where appropriate;

• avoid unnecessary use of pesticides and herbicides;

• encourage birds and beneficial insects through wildlife-friendly gardening.

Small actions taken across many plots can make a significant contribution to local biodiversity.

 

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)

Parts of Bramerton parish include land designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its exceptional wildlife, geology or natural features.

These nationally important sites are protected for future generations and help conserve rare habitats and species.

The Parish Council supports the protection of SSSI land by:

• considering the impact of planning applications;

• working with landowners and conservation organisations where appropriate;

• promoting awareness of the importance of these protected habitats.​

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