What are Local Geodiversity Action Plans?
Local Geodiversity Action Plans (LGAPs) set out actions to conserve and enhance the geodiversity of a particular area.
In general they aim to:
- Identify, conserve and enhance the best sites that represent the geological history of an area in a scientific, educational, recreational and cultural setting.
- Promote geological sites and make geoconservation relevant to people.
- Provide a local geodiversity audit (an audit of sites and skills).
- Influence local planning policy.
Currently there are more than 40 LGAPs in progress, focusing on county or other administrative areas. Company Geodiversity Action Plans (CGAPs) are also being developed for company land-holdings, with the initial focus on the minerals extraction industry.
Why write an LGAP?
LGAPs are being developed to provide a framework for the delivery of geoconservation. LGAPs are, in part, developed from the model of Biodiversity Action Plans and have adopted the process of setting clear aims and objectives, with measurable targets, for local geoconservation.
This approach can provide:
- a structured approach to local geoconservation
- a framework for grant applications
- wider awareness of geological sites and geoconservation
- increased protection for existing and newly identified sites.
Who is involved?
It is important to include a range of partners that cover the geographical range of the LGAP and the variety of interested groups. These partners should all be involved in developing the LGAP, although it often helps if one organisation leads the planning process.
This partnership will develop the draft LGAP, which is then sent out to wider consultation. Everyone should be involved in carrying out the plan.
The partnership should include a wide range of groups from the local community, conservation, local government, business, industry and education, who can contribute to the development and delivery of the LGAP.
Those currently active in developing LGAPs come from a wide range of backgrounds, including:
- National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Regionally Important Geological/geomorphological Sites) groups
- geology trusts, wildlife trusts and museums
- community and educational groups, local authorities and businesses
- the minerals industry and British Geological Survey.
How to produce an LGAP
LGAP priorities differ from region to region and LGAP objectives can be tailored to suit the local geology and local expertise. However, many LGAPs share a common approach and underpinning philosophy: the conservation and enhancement of geodiversity.
In December 2003, English Nature brought together those active in LGAP development for a one-day workshop. Six LGAPs were reviewed (Cheshire Region, County Durham, Leicestershire and Rutland, North Pennines AONB, Staffordshire, Tees Valley and Warwickshire). All six were then in an advanced stage of development or shortly to be agreed and published.
You can find out more in the documents:
Research Report No. 560, Local Geodiversity Action Plans - Setting the context for geological conservation
by Cynthia Burek and Jac Potter, describes the initial research work behind LGAPs and suggests routes for the LGAP process.
Research Report No. 601, Local Geodiversity Action Plans - Sharing good practice workshop by Cynthia Burek and Jac Potter, summarises the workshop and examines the common features of the emerging LGAPs. The report also provides case studies of the LGAPs reviewed at the meeting.
A summary leaflet, Local Geodiversity Action Plans - Sharing good practice is also available.
LGAP progress
Natural England's report NERR027 Local Geodiversity Action Plans: a review of progress in England summarises progress with developing LGAPs.
