Nature reserves

There are a number of Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) located within Plymouth’s city boundary. These have been selected as areas of high natural interest and public amenity. Their designation reflects their value for nature conservation, the importance of the site within the series of LNRs within the city, their function as biological corridors and their potential recreational and educational value.

The Council has the statutory power to designate LNRs under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. The LNR designation gives strong protection from damage as LNRs are subject to formal management agreements that seek to preserve a site’s natural interest.

The Council is responsible for a number of designated LNRs along with some proposed sites that are awaiting formal designation. There are also LNRs that are the responsibility of other organisations such as the Whitleigh Woods LNR that is managed by the Woodland Trust.