Aim - Creation of a viable and enhanced landscape in the West Weald, with better-integrated management, for wildlife, 'ecosystem services' provision, environmental quality and public appreciation and use.

Specific Objectives -

•  Conservation, enhancement and expansion of core areas of ecological interest

The four core forest areas identified to focus on in the West Weald Landscape are the designated nature conservation sites of Ebernoe Common, The Mens, Chiddingfold Forest, and Northpark Copse to Snapelands Copse. We are striving to effectively manage such sites using a range of methods to achieve 'favourable' conservation status, whilst seeking opportunities as possible to enlarge them furthermore. We are keen to encourage the greater influence of natural processes in nature conservation management, including naturalistic grazing by large herbivores ('wilder' breeds of cattle), to enhance wildlife conservation, ecological quality, and ecosystem functioning.

•  Better-connected habitats and species populations across the whole landscape , through improved linkages and less intensive overall land use and management

Given that the biodiversity of the core areas cannot be conserved solely by managing individual sites, since some species such as Barbastelle bats and Wood White butterflies range widely across the landscape, there is a need to identify and then enhance priority ecological corridors and networks, including river and stream corridors, wood rews, hedgerows and buffer strips. We are advising landowners and managers on targeted management for the greatest landscape connectivity and 'permeability' benefits for species movement, supported by extensive survey and monitoring of biodiversity, landscape connectivity, land use and management trends. Additionally, we can provide advice and support to local planning authorities and others on proposed developments and activities which could affect either the core areas' interest and/or the integrity of landscape connectivity.

•  Improved and more integrated delivery of conservation mechanisms to support targeted land management through the project to achieve greater environmental improvements

There is a strong case for more joined-up thinking and action between diverse conservation organisations and agendas, including in our area, to deliver multiple benefits for the nature and quality of the landscape. Such initiatives include contributing to the implementation of the Sussex Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), promoting and facilitating prioritised and co-ordinated applications for Environmental Stewardship and Woodland Grant Scheme funding, assisting with measures under the Water Framework Directive (WFD), and co-operating with neighbouring projects and organisations including the two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

•  Enhanced public enjoyment, understanding, access to and inspiration from the landscape , with greater provision of local 'sustainable' natural goods and services

People are inextricably linked to our landscape's past, present and future - much of which remains relatively unchanged since the early-medieval period due to a lengthy continuity in traditional land management. The West Weald is a quite sparsely populated rural area that is relatively unknown and little-visited, however, thus there is a case to promote its identity as a distinct natural landscape both in its own right and as a 'gateway' to adjacent protected landscapes. Much scope exists to provide environmental education opportunities to local schools and community bodies to develop their understanding of and engagement in landscape conservation, along with suitable interpretation and dissemination materials and events. Promotion of appropriate recreational access and use of the countryside, including (eco-)tourism, as well as development of 'sustainable' local natural goods, services and markets (e.g. extensive-grazing meat, venison, timber and wood/fuel products) is also contemplated.