Priority outcomes and measures

This section describes seven priority outcomes for nature in the North Pennines, and some of the practical and ecological measures (actions) that can be taken to achieve them. Reaching these outcomes relies on the restoration of natural processes and also contributes to their restoration.
Champion Species, selected to reflect success in achieving priority outcomes, are listed in the next section.

Who are the suggested measures for?

Many of the measures can only be taken by land managers, either individually or collectively. Some of these measures need effective payment or incentive schemes to enable them to happen, while some are good practice which will benefit both nature and the farm or estate’s bottom line. Other measures may need to be undertaken collectively between land managers and other agencies, either to co-ordinate management effort (e.g. deer monitoring and control) or to influence policy and practice (e.g. details of agri-environment payments or training programmes).

What do the maps represent?

The maps for Outcomes NR1 to NR3 in this section are meant as a guide to delivery and funding for delivery on the ground. As such they are often drawn generously to ensure opportunities for restoration are always available where they might be appropriate. Importantly, this does not mean that everything within the zone is suitable for all the measures selected. These maps have informed the production of the three Local Nature Recovery Strategies which cover the North Pennines National Landscape and, where possible, they are aligned with similar maps in each strategy.

Some land will lie within more than one opportunity zone in recognition of multiple options for restoration in that place. There is no substitute for on the ground assessment of the options with knowledgeable advisors.

Summary of priority outcomes

NR1 Peatland and heathland

Peatlands are under restoration to good hydrological and biological condition. Heathland mosaics are larger in extent and more structurally diverse.

NR2 Wading birds

The in-bye suite of breeding wading birds (curlew, lapwing, redshank, snipe and oystercatcher) are thriving in key areas

NR3 Trees and scrub

More trees in the landscape, consisting of well-managed native woodland, wood pasture and low-density scrub, in the right places

NR4 Rivers and streams

Rivers and streams are in good ecological health

NR5 Grasslands

Grassland species-diversity is maintained where high, and enhanced where low

NR6 Wetlands

More wetland habitat of high ecological quality

NR7 Birds of prey

Birds of prey in numbers which reflect habitat availability

Champion species

Champion species have a secure future in the North Pennines

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Next Outcome NR1 Peatland and heathland