Reclaimed By Nature

Over the past 50 years Bushfield Camp has been reclaimed by nature from a brownfield site into a relative wildlife haven supporting various priority habitats and a rich diversity of species.  The site has even been designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) and is home to protected species including Hazel Dormouse, Cinnabar moth, Spotted Flycatcher, Grizzled Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Small Heath, Red Kite, Bullfinch, Linnet, Song Thrush, Turtle Dove, Yellowhammer, Helleborine, Tor-Grass.  Common Lizard, Slow Worm, Badger, Warblers, Fieldfare, Tawny and Little Owl, and Woodpecker, Glowworm and 11 species of bat are also present at the site.  

The development site is also a key link in the Nature Recovery Network as it provides connections between the surrounding landscape and other designated sites. The proposed development is also likely to put pressure on other nearby designated sites including the River Itchen Site of Importance Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area for Conservation (SAC), and St Catherines Hill SSSI. The application is likely to cause recreational disturbance to these sites and the conservation status of Annex 1 listed birds under the Birds Directive (Nightjar and Woodlark).  

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have objected to the proposed development on the grounds of “direct loss of Bushfield Camp SINC, the loss of priority habitats and species, the fragmentation of the Nature Recovery Network and unmitigated recreational impacts on River Itchen SSSI/SAC and St Catherine’s Hill SSSI”.   You can read the full objection here.

Natural England have stated that “as submitted, the application could have potential significant effects on River Itchen Special Area of Conservation” and have required further information to determine the significance of these impacts and scope of mitigation, including a Habitat Regulations Assessment. 

From February 2024, developments must result in a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain, we are hoping that a fresh application is required by the Planning Authority and that the proposals need to take account of this.  We want Winchester City Council to safeguard Bushfield Camp SINCs and other designated sites and to explore retaining the site for nature conservation.