Lawrence, D. J. D. 1990. Limestone Landscapes — a geodiversity audit and action plan for the Durham Magnesian Limestone Plateau. British Geological Survey open report OR/09/007.
1 Introduction
1.1 Aim
The principal aim of this study is to identify areas and means by which geodiversity can contribute to the vision of the Limestone Landscape Partnership: "Working together in a landscape-scale Partnership to make a positive difference to quality of life and to the unique natural environment of the Magnesian Limestone area".
The Limestone Landscapes Partnership
Aims
- A1 Champion and co-ordinate informed, participative and integrated action on the environment across a broad range of sectors.
- A2 Deliver environment-led actions that achieve social and economic benefits.
- A3 Work with communities connected to the natural area to help shape a landscape that reflects their need
Objectives
- O1. Conserve and enhance the unique biodiversity, geo-diversity, landscape, heritage and cultural assets of the partnership area and strengthen and develop local character and distinctiveness.
- O2. Improve access to countryside and natural green-space, and opportunities for healthy 'green exercise' that will improve mental, physical and social well-being.
- O3. Raise awareness of the environment of the partnership area as an educational resource and a source of local pride, creating stronger links between urban and rural areas.
- O4. Empower local people to participate in activities and decision-making on the environment. O5. Improve, promote and use the environment as a stimulus for economic regeneration and sustainable growth.
- O6. Support and promote activities that help to mitigate, or adapt to, the impacts of climate change.
- O7. Support and complement the work of partners through linking and securing resources and expertise
1.2 Scope of the study
- Geodiversity audit of main geological formations and features through desk top study of existing information
- Through existing data and field work: identification of a network of representative sites which encapsulate the essential features of the Durham Magnesian Limestone JCA's geology. To include or be additional to SSSIs and/or existing Local Sites
- Identification of interpretation opportunities and issues, particularly those that make links between geodiversity, landscape character, biodiversity and economic and cultural history.
- Prioritisation of sites according to interpretation, linkage and community use criteria
- A condition assessment of each site and management proposals.
- Suggestions for Action Points to be taken forward.
- Prepare a fully attributed digital file of sites compatible with ESRI GIS system.
- Photographs of key formations and features, and representative sites.
1.3 Area of study
The Limestone Landscapes area broadly follows the boundaries of the Durham Magnesian Limestone Plateau (see