Agenda and decisions

CC 02/15

Local Nature Reserve (LNR) Designation – St Julian’s Park

Options Considered/Reasons for Decision

The Chair of Cabinet considered a report proposing to designate St Julian’s Park as a Local Nature Reserve. St Julian’s Park was located 1.5 miles from the City Centre and covered an area of approximately 52 hectares. The site was an ecological gem containing over 300 species of plants and animals. It served the local communities of Caerleon, St Julian’s, Beechwood and Lawrence Hill, as well as attracting visitors from further a field that visit the site to marvel at the wildlife and views.

Over 300 species of plants and animals had been recorded within St Julian’s Park and habitats on the site included ancient semi natural woodland, semi improved grassland, freshwater stream and scrub.

St Julian’s Park was an historic site that was previously a deer park (c1752).  There was also a scheduled ancient monument within the site boundary. The site was currently well used by dog walkers and ramblers, however, the intention was to increase usage by schools around Newport by providing not only an outdoor classroom but a forest school area.

The benefits of designating St Julian’s Park as a LNR are as follows:-

·         The status of the park was upgraded, and official statutory recognition was given to its conservation value;

·         LNR status could attract additional monies and funding for example management of the current LNR at Allt Yr Yn was partially funded by the Natural Resources Wales Grant;

·         Financial contributions could be awarded via the planning system through Section 106 money;

·         Newport City Council’s Green credentials were improved

·         Formalising the area for use as an accessible natural green space. Illustrating to the local community the importance of the site and promoting the health benefits;

·         Improving access throughout the site would join the two wards of St Julian’s and Caerleon and increase the flow of people between the two areas;

·         The LNR designation could improve chances of obtaining grants to improve the legal rights of way that traverse the site as well as improving the access;

Decision

To designate St Julian’s as a Local nature Reserve under Section 21 of the National park and Access to Countryside Act 1949.

Consultation

Monitoring Officer, Head of Finance, Head of People & Business Change, Caerleon, St Julian’s and Beechwood Ward Members

All Members were consulted and provided with an opportunity to comment.  Any comments received and response thereafter are set out in the report.

Implemented By: Interim Head of Streetscene and City Services