Shropshire is renowned for its varied geology and local place names such as Ludlow are recognised internationally as divisions of geological time. A plan has been published which aims to protect and promote this rich geological heritage.
The Shropshire Geodiversity Action Plan (SGAP) is concerned with all aspects of geodiversity, from rock outcrops and landscapes to historic mining features, stone buildings and museum collections.
The plan lists the main issues facing geodiversity in Shropshire and sets out a series of actions to address them, with a strong emphasis on partnership and joint working.
A wide range of organisations are involved in conserving and interpreting Shropshire’s geology. The SGAP provides a coordinating framework in which such actions can be progressed for the benefit of all those with an interest in the county’s environment.
Central government advice requires that proper account is taken of geological conservation issues in the design of new development. The SGAP will provide greater clarity in response to this requirement.
The SGAP was prepared jointly by Shropshire Council, the Shropshire Geological Society and the Shropshire Wildlife Trust with the support of Natural England and was published in August 2007. A series of such plans have been published in England under a process started by Natural England's predecessor English Nature in 1998. It is intended to update the SGAP in the near future.
The plan and an illustrated summary can be downloaded by selecting the relevant link.