Natural England - Geological Local Nature Reserves
Geological Local Nature Reserves
All district and county councils have discretionary powers to acquire, declare and manage Local Nature Reserves (LNRs).
To qualify for LNR status, a site must be of at least local importance for wildlife, geology, education or the informal enjoyment of the environment by the public.
LNRs must be controlled by the local authority through ownership, lease or agreement with the owner. The main aim must be to care for the natural features which make the site special.
Range of LNRs
LNRs can be designated for their geological features as well as wildlife. Such LNRs may be Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS) or sites of known local geological interest. Kirtlington Quarry SSSI, Oxfordshire is an example of an LNR that is also an SSSI.
Sites might include disused quarries or railway cuttings, road or canal cuttings, natural outcrops and landscape features.
Geological LNRs provide many benefits. They:
- protect locally important geological sites
- increase public awareness, understanding and enjoyment of rocks, fossils, minerals and landscapes
- provide an environment for people to learn about their local geology.
- form a focus for partnerships between local authorities, conservation organisations and local people
- permit positive management of the geological resource.
