Councillors approve the creation of a new Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve

The Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve would cover 1,200 hectares by extending Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve (NNR) and including parts of Eastbourne Downland managed by Eastbourne Borough Council.

Councillor Jim Murray, Cabinet Member for Carbon Neutral 2030, said: "This is a landmark project signifying our shared commitment with partners to nature conservation and the restoration of precious chalk habitats.

"The creation of this Seaford to Eastbourne Super National Nature Reserve, known as The Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve, would not only protect the unique biodiversity of the region but also contribute to cleaner water, improved air quality, and climate change resilience. By restoring and connecting habitats, the project aims to enhance the natural environment for both wildlife and people."

The project is a collaboration between Eastbourne Borough Council, Forestry England, Seaford Town Council, Sussex Wildlife Trust, South Downs National Park Authority, South East Water, National Trust, and Natural England.

At only 63 hectares, Lullington Heath NNR, situated north of Friston Forest, is currently an ecological island of rare chalk heath and grassland in a landscape surrounded by farmland, as well as multiple Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), some of which are in unfavourable condition.

Key goals of the project include:

• Protecting and restoring chalk habitats: the project will work to improve the condition of existing Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and restore chalk grasslands, vital for supporting a variety of plant and animal species.
• Enhancing water security: the chalk aquifers beneath the Downs provide drinking water to the surrounding areas. The project will help protect these vital water resources, ensuring a sustainable supply for future generations.
• Creating a resilient landscape: by restoring and connecting habitats, the project will create a more robust natural environment, better equipped to withstand the impacts of climate change.
• Promoting public engagement: the Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve will offer opportunities for people to experience and learn about the natural world, fostering a sense of stewardship for generations to come.

Following today's approval by Cabinet, Natural England will begin the approval process for the council to become an Approved Body to manage the NNR, ensuring that nature conservation remains the primary focus while supporting other activities such as recreational use and scientific research on land within the declaration.

Councillor Murray added: "Designation as The Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve would bring national recognition of this area's importance and is likely to have the additional benefit of making new funding sources available."

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