One of Britain's youngest cities is set to benefit from the
creation of a huge new national nature reserve - the Bradford
Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve.
The new National Nature Reserve – the 7th in the King's
Series - announced and created today (13 May) is the first
of its kind in West Yorkshire and will provide people with
opportunity to enjoy the landscapes that inspired and were
celebrated by the Bronte Sisters
The reserve spans 1,274 hectares - twice the size of Ilkley
Moor - and links together eight nature sites within the Bradford
& South Pennines area, two of which are internationally
important upland habitats, and much-loved places such as
Penistone Country Park in Haworth, home of the Brontes.
The establishment of this reserve will bridge this gap between
the city of Bradford and the countryside by highlighting a range
of important habitats just a stone's throw from people's homes. A
National Nature Reserve next to one of the UK's youngest cities
will also help to break down barriers for young people accessing
the countryside in one of England's most nature deprived areas.
Approximately 90% of the area comprises UK priority habitats,
including peat bogs, heathlands, and wetlands. Endangered
wildlife such Adders, Curlew, and Golden plover will benefit from
greater protections and better-connected habitats. 42% of the
reserve will be newly protected, with 738 hectares (58%)
designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI),
contributing to national conservation efforts to protect 30% of
land for nature by 2030.
Natural England Chair Tony Juniper said:
Reversing the historic declines in nature and moving toward
ecological recovery requires bigger, better and more joined up
areas for nature to thrive. The opening of this reserve is an
important moment in this journey, marking a significant
achievement in our efforts to protect and enhance the natural
environment.
By working with local partners providing accessible Nature
near to urban areas, we are fostering a deeper connection between
communities and nature, promoting wellbeing and inspiring the
next generation to support biodiversity recovery.
Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's Portfolio Holder
for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said:
We are delighted that Bradford has such an important role in the
national roll-out National Nature Reserves across the country,
being the first in West Yorkshire.
Around two thirds of our district is rural, and we boast unique
and breath-taking scenery. The creation of the Bradford Pennine
Gateway National Nature Reserve ensures that these sites are
protected and accessible for everyone in our district and beyond.
Minister for Nature said:
The Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve is a
landmark moment and will bring huge numbers of people closer to
their iconic nature-rich habitats, as part of this governments
Plan for Change to halt natures decline.
Aligning with Bradford's designation as the UK City of Culture
2025, the reserve integrates cultural enrichment with
conservation efforts. Natural England and Bradford Council will
create a public engagement strategy to increase the diversity of
visitors and encourage positive action for nature across Bradford
in communities rightly proud of their area.
The launch will also enhance educational and cultural
opportunities in the area. In collaboration with local
universities and colleges, the reserve will offer opportunities
for field studies and research.
The creation of the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature
Reserve (NNR) marks a significant milestone in the King's Series
of National Nature Reserves. With the support of His Majesty King
Charles III, Natural England will leave a lasting public legacy
for people and nature by creating or extending 25 National Nature
Reserves by 2027.
Together these sites form an ecological network that links two
internationally important upland habitats within the South
Pennines Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of
Conservation (SAC). All sites are owned and managed by Bradford
Council
