I’ve recently been contracted to scrape away some turf to create bare earth on some designated chalk downland. Hang – on, what does “designated chalk downland” mean? Chalk downland is the habitat of grasses, herbs, flowers insects etc that live on the chalk hills. The designated bit means it’s been recognised as an amazing place for nature and has been made a Site of Special Scientific Interest or a Special Area of Conservation. Such designations come with a legal obligation to care for the site. It’s a bit like living in a listed cottage – it’s yours but you have... read more
