Highcliffe could become a ‘nature village’ celebrating its “unique natural environment”.
Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council has been in talks with BCP Council and the Parks Foundation about the proposal.
A report prepared by chair Adam Sofianos and vice-chair Andy Martin states the area has the “most unspoiled coastline in the whole of BCP”.
It also boasts a “unique green ecological corridor, the second highest level of tree canopy cover of any ward in the conurbation, a number of nature reserves, many woodland areas, and a rich and remarkable abundance of wildlife and flora”.
This attracts “rich wildlife”, says the report, including badgers, otters, hedgehogs, foxes and a variety of birds including many endangered species.
During the talks, Cllrs Sofianos and Martin spoke about developing ideas to “promote and protect and enhance our natural habitats and species”.
The parish council said this could result in the designation of the parish as a nature village.
This would endeavour to raise awareness to residents and visitors while encouraging people to “play their part in private gardens”.
It would also give the parish “a special environment identity” while encouraging community groups, individuals, schools and businesses to create wildlife-friendly spaces and be part of the project.
The designation of a nature village has no legal status, rather it’s a community-led initiative backed by BCP’s environment and countryside teams.
If designated, the parish council said information and interpretation boards outlining the flora and fauna of different areas could be installed.
There would be talks, walks and events throughout the year in conjunction with community groups and organisations.
The council said there was also “potential” for a mini green festival in the village.
The financial implications will “depend on the actions and investments” of it and “would be subject to existing budgetary limitations”, the parish council said.
