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Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), are the
country's very best wildlife and geological sites. They include
some of our most spectacular and beautiful habitats.
SSSIs are important as they support plants and animals that find
it more difficult to survive in the wider countryside. The unique
and varied habitats of SSSIs have developed over hundreds of years
through management practices such as grazing and forestry, and need
active management to maintain their conservation interest. Because
they are so important to our environment, our natural heritage and
our scientific community, these sites are protected by law.
In Kent, there are over 100 Sites of Special Scientific
Interest, and details of them can be found on the
Natural
England website (link opens in a new window).
Sites include wetlands, rivers, heathlands, meadows, beaches,
moorland and peat bog. These diverse and fascinating habitats are
under threat from development, pollution, climate change and
unsustainable land management.
Natural England works with land owners and managers to conserve
SSSIs and is responsible for ensuring any development will not have
a negative impact on them.
Not all SSSIs are open for public access but there are many in
Kent that you can visit and enjoy. For more information about SSSIs
and to find sites near you, please visit the
Natural
England website (link opens in a new
window). |