Where the Wild Things Are

This project represents an innovative change in approach to the management of and public engagement with some of Powys’ most underappreciated wildlife spaces; Local Wildlife Sites (LWS).

From mystical ancient woodlands to quiet churchyards and bustling flower-rich roadsides; and from field-bordering hedgerows to tiny copses the UK enjoys special, often unnoticed wild places where nature thrives. Whether they are in the depths of the countryside or nestled in busy towns and cities, Local Wildlife Sites are the most important places for nature, outside of protected areas such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Powys’ Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) are truly exceptional areas of land, vital for both wildlife and people. However, despite being part of the planning system, these sites and the services they provide to the local community (e.g. access, tourism, health and well-being) are under threat like never before.

This project aimed to tackle this threat by giving the people of Powys a reason to leave their living rooms and step into a whole new world “Where the Wild Things Are…” often just round the corner or down the street.

Working across Powys, Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust and Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales aimed to:

• Overhaul the existing system by which Powys’ LWS are assessed and selected to ensure that this process is easily workable and fully embedded within the planning system into the future
• Build a legacy of supportive community ownership and engagement with LWS by providing people with volunteering opportunities which will improve their local area for the benefit of people and wildlife
• Develop and implement LWS survey and sustainable land management methodologies suitable for landowners, farmers, and volunteers
• Support enhanced access to existing and future LWS to ensure maximum health and well-being gains for local people
• ‘Value’ the role that the LWS network plays in the health and well-being of our social and ecological communities

For more on Local Wildlife Sites, click here.