Since development started in 2001 the landscape of Great Park has completely transformed from arable farmland into a diverse mosaic of woodland, meadowland intertwining with a network of sustainable urban drainage systems, mounds, vales and streams. This ecosystem delivers wide open spaces to create an environment that is rich and diverse and something that we can all be proud of.
Throughout the development life-cycle, we will continue to monitor species and habitats across the scheme to ensure we can help to protect and enhance wildlife across the Great Park. This will be reported through the Bio-Diversity Action Plan (BAP) and discussed with the Nature Conservation Steering Group.
The Steering Group meet annually (or more frequently if required) and it involves community representatives, Newcastle City Council and Consortium representatives, Natural England, Northumberland Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency as well as others. This provides a forum to review the monitoring data against targets and discuss priorities and areas for improvement in the future years.