Protected Environment: A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
The River Camel, its tributaries and streams are ‘controlled waters’ under the Water Resources Act 1991
According to the DEFRA Magic Map web service, there is a tributary of the River Camel 35m north of the proposed site.
The River Camel is for much of its course (and certainly in areas adjacent to the site) a designated SSSI, and the main river course lies 155m away from the site.
The site is absolutely, totally and firmly within catchment for the River Camel SAC – see:
‘River Camel Special Area of Conservation – Catchment Map, August 2022’ https://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/file/4708241404854272
The DEFRA Magic Map web service makes absolutely clear that the site is firmly within Impact Risk Zones for Sites of Special Scientific Interest. It is interesting, and very important, to note that this is also explicitly acknowledged within a 116 page document that is buried within the appendices of the ‘Geoenvironmental Desk Study with Appendix’ (extract below). This document was produced by Groundsure Limited, presumably on behalf of Wardell Armstrong, who were commissioned by GEL.
Pictures of GEL’s United Downs plant, Redruth:
What is an SSSI?
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a formal conservation designation in the United Kingdom, aimed at protecting areas of particular interest due to their unique fauna, flora, geological, or physiographical features.
These sites are selected to preserve the best examples of the UK's natural heritage and are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological integrity.
What is an SAC?
A Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is a protected area designated under the UK's Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations.
SACs are selected to ensure the long-term survival of Europe's most valuable and threatened species and habitats.
Conservation of Biodiversity: SACs aim to safeguard a range of natural habitats and species, both terrestrial and marine, that are rare, endangered, or vulnerable across Europe.
Part of Natura 2000 Network: Together with Special Protection Areas (SPAs), SACs form the Natura 2000 network, a coherent ecological network of protected areas across the European Union.
Legal Protection: Activities within SACs are subject to regulations to prevent deterioration of habitats and disturbance of species. Any plan or project likely to have a significant effect on an SAC must undergo an appropriate assessment to ensure its conservation objectives are not adversely affected.