ACLMS restoring coastal grassland habitat at Grandes Rocques

Thursday 21 March 2024

Agriculture, Countryside and Land Management Services is restoring coastal grassland habitat on a Site of Special Significance at Grandes Rocques.

The land which is currently used as a seasonal overflow car park will be regenerated to a coastal grassland habitat to boost the biodiversity of the area and provide a link between the end of the headland and other nearby areas of coastal grassland. To enable this, a boulder will be installed at the entrance to the overflow and topsoil will be laid to support the growth of vegetation.

Coastal grassland is an important habitat, supporting a diversity of iconic wild flowers, such as sea pink and sea campion, and assemblages of pollinators and birds.

This work is being undertaken following consultation with the Planning Service. All works will follow careful biosecurity measures and any seeding will be undertaken using native species, locally sourced.

Whilst this will mean that the area won't be available for use as an overflow car park at peak times, in addition to the availability of other nearby car parks, this will be partially offset by the additional spaces at the former entrance to the overflow as well as bicycle infrastructure to encourage active travel.

Julia Henney, Senior Natural Environment Officer, said:

"Coastal grasslands are rich in biodiversity. By restoring this area, we're creating a place where we hope that species can thrive whilst also creating more space for people to connect with nature, which is one of the goals of Guernsey's Strategy for Nature."

Photo credit: Rod Ferbrache