Plans are underway to designate Old Down in southern Basingstoke as a local nature reserve, following a decision by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s Cabinet on March 10.
The council has placed Old Down at the top of its priority list for LNR status, building on a pledge made in December to advance environmental protection for the area.
Councillor Chris Tomblin, cabinet member for climate and ecological emergency, said: “Starting this work is a positive step towards giving Old Down the additional long-term protection it deserves in a way that benefits local people and our wildlife.
Old Down in Basingstoke (Image: Google Maps)
“As it follows soon after our decision last month to make Little Pen Wood, in the Highclere area, a local nature reserve, it highlights our commitment to work quickly to safeguard more of the borough’s important natural habitats now and for the future.”
Already recognised as a site of importance for nature conservation (SINC), Old Down is managed by the council’s rangers and grounds maintenance teams in partnership with the Old Down Wildlife Group and Natural Basingstoke.
The LNR designation would strengthen protections for the site, support habitat restoration, and promote biodiversity.
It would also encourage community engagement through environmental education and enjoyment of the area.
Day-to-day activities like dog walking, running, and cycling would still be permitted under the new designation.
The process to formally declare an LNR typically takes around 18 months.
It involves consultation with Natural England as well as nearby residents and community groups.
Protecting the natural environment remains a key priority for the council, aligning with its 2021 ecological emergency pledge and the biodiversity strategy it adopted two years ago.
There’s more information about Basingstoke and Deane’s 11 local nature reserves at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/local-nature-reserves