Canford Heath is one of the largest examples of continuous heathland left in Dorset and is home to many scarce and rare plants and animals. Lowland heathland, of which Canford is a particularly fine example, is rare on a global scale; the great majority of the original extent has been lost and the UK now has a responsibility to conserve what is left of this special habitat and landscape.

The heath is also one of the few places left with a real sense of the evocative, wild and beautiful cultural landscape that for several millennia was so typical of lowland England.

To maintain the heathland and its unique wildlife this 10-year Management Plan updates and develops what has already been achieved in the past 10 years, blending the Borough’s duties to provide a safe and welcoming open space with the heavy responsibilities of the national and international conservation designations in place to protect it.

The Plan sets out the statutory protection for habitats, wildlife and archaeological features that apply at Canford, and summarises the broad range of rare and attractive wildlife that can be found there.

Many people visit Canford Heath, some on a daily basis; most treasure its unique sense of space, history and character. The Plan seeks to ensure that these special qualities, and the very sensitive wildlife, are maintained and where possible, enhanced.

Consultation on the draft plan ended 31st October 2010.  Thanks to everyone who has commented on it; the final version can be downloaded below: