What Are Sites of Special Scientific Interest?

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are the country's best wildlife and geological statutory sites. They support plants and animals which are now seldom found in the wider countryside.

Natural England has responsibility for identifying and protecting SSSIs in England under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000).

Further information on Sites of Special Scientific Interest is available on Natural England's website.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Charnwood

There are 17 SSSIs in Charnwood, covering over 4% per cent of the district’s land area. They include some of our most valuable habitats – ancient woodland, flower-rich meadows and earth heritage sites.