Latest news with #ofSpecialScientificInterest
The National
11 hours ago
- Politics
- The National
Donald Trump said Balmedie locals love his new golf course. Do they?
Of course, he was characteristically boastful as the ribbon was cut in front of a crowd including celebrities, golfers, First Minister John Swinney and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Just before hitting the first ball at the New Course, which is a short 20-minute drive from Aberdeen near a town called Balmedie, the US president told those gathered on a grandstand: 'We started with a beautiful piece of land, but we made it much more beautiful. READ MORE: Donald Trump in Scotland 'can only be a good thing', says Anas Sarwar 'The area has really welcomed us. If you remember at the beginning there wasn't quite a welcome, but it wasn't bad. 'But with time they liked us more and more, now they love us and we love them.' The National went out in Balmedie to find out if that was true. 'No, not at all,' 66-year-old Steve Young (below) said – who expressed concerns over how accessible and beneficial it actually was – suggesting the course should offer, for example discounted rates, for locals. (Image: Newsquest) 'I used to be a golfer. I've never played at Donald Trump's course because it's too expensive. I've never played, it's too elite.' He added that he once drove over to Trump International with his wife with the intention of potentially eating there but decided it was 'too posh'. 64-year-old Gordon, who has lived in the area for over 25 years, also wasn't a huge fan of the golf course – albeit more for ecological reasons. We always knew from the outset this was gonna happen. So it comes as really no great surprise,' he told The National. 'I think people, when it was originally proposed, didn't realise how close it came to the edge of the country park and it does impact.' READ MORE: Donald Trump to meet John Swinney and open new golf course on final day in Scotland He added: 'There's obviously been huge environmental concerns.' The sand dunes at Donald Trump's Aberdeenshire golf resort lost their special status as a nationally-important protected environment in 202o. The countryside agency NatureScot said that, after construction, the area no longer merited being retained as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). 'It was always going to be downgraded once he stabilised the dunes, it's a moving dune system,' he said. 'And normally you don't get planning permission but the rules for Trump were very different.' Gordon added: 'In this country, we should not be crashing our sites of scientific interest for a golf course. I think Trump missed a trick. I think he could have done something that worked with nature. But, you know, that's not his style, is it?' There were pockets of positivism. (Image: Newsquest) When asked the same question about whether Balmedie was in favour, 79-year-old Atholl Lipp (above) was much more optimistic. 'Trump is great for Balmedie,' he told The National. Lipp added: 'It's a beautiful course. Everything is just immaculate.' Another local, Alan, said of the course: 'I don't mind. It doesn't put me up or down. 'We don't want the national park to disappear. As long as it stays the way it is.' Finally, Pat, an elderly pensioner who was walking her dog Rupert near Balmedie beach, wasn't aware of the course opening at all. 'No idea,' she said. 'If I played golf, I'd rather go down to the Old Course or Carnoustie – somewhere like that.'
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Borneo Post
Two little-known national parks in southwest England, southern France
The wild moorland landscape of Exmoor. — Photo by Alan Rogers READERS may well ask: where I have been for the last two months? To be truthful, I have been spending my time in Exmoor National Park, southwest England and in the Camargue, a national park in Provence, southern France. Having visited these national parks many times before, my recent visits were even more interesting thanks to my Sarawakian friend who accompanied me. My eyes and mind were opened by my friend's inquisitive approach, asking pertinent questions on the landscapes, flora, fauna, and traditions of these two regions. It became apparent to me that what I have taken as granted in these regions needed detailed explanations for she did not settle for less and it made me realise that, although knowing Sabah pretty well and living in Sarawak for almost two and a half years, I relied on her knowledge for the recognition of flora and fauna there. The shoe now was on the other foot. These two national parks are as little known to urban dwellers in both England and France as indeed are the Malaysian national parks to Malaysia's urban folk. This week, I shall take you to explore my local Exmoor National Park, and my next column will be on the Camargue, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, in France. Exmoor National Park Exmoor covers 693 square kilometres, with 71 per cent of its land in the county of Somerset and 29 per cent in the neighbouring county of Devon. Located in coastal districts bordering the Bristol Channel and extending southwards inland, it is essentially an upland area with a dispersed population living in small villages and hamlets. Geologically this upland is made up of Devonian and early Carboniferous rocks comprising an admixture of gritstone, sandstone, slates, shales, limestone, siltstone, and mudstone moulded into a plateau-like pattern and bisected by deep cut steep sided river valleys. Although Exmoor escaped direct glaciation from the European ice masses of the Pleistocene glacial icesheets (about 1.4 million to 12,000 years ago) its northern edge was tickled by the very last ice sheet with a lobe of ice that extended from south Wales, south westwards along the Irish Sea to the Isles of Scilly in Cornwall. As Exmoor was located on the periphery of the ice sheets, it experienced periglacial (tundra-like) conditions with deeply frozen ground. When the permafrost thawed, vast volumes of meltwater were released creating very large powerful rivers, most of which flowed southwards excavating deep valleys. The rivers Barle and Exe are such rivers. The former is a tributary of the latter and is best viewed from the medieval stone bridge in the once market town of Dulverton. Both river valleys have been declared as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Exmoor, with its 55km of coastline facing the Bristol Channel, possesses the highest sea cliff in mainland Britain at Great Hangman measuring 250 metres in height. This national park's highest point is at Dunkery Beacon (519 metres). Climate Sited in the southwest of England, Exmoor experiences a wetter but milder climate than the rest of the UK with a lower temperature range than most of England as it is influenced by the sea. The rain is associated with the Atlantic's southwesterlies and westerly winds with heavy downpours on the higher moors. These upland areas with farms located in the valleys can be very bleak in winter with an annual average of 23 days of snow and six days in the coastal areas. Exmoor has an annual average of 1,019mm of rain per annum. With climate change in rapid progress, snowfall and rainfall are likely to be less and temperatures steadily rising. Flora and fauna Twenty-five per cent of the landscape is covered by heath and moorland with some moors displaying a wide variety of grasses and sedges while others are blanketed with heather (Erica). Many of the deep valleys, as opposed to the moorland tops, display a mixture of broadleaved oak, ash, hazel, and conifer trees. England's highest beech forest exists at 350 metres and the high hedgerows see beech trees growing up to 490 metres. Two species of whitebeam (Sorbus) are unique to Exmoor. Animals have shaped the landscape of Exmoor for very many centuries. Sheep have grazed this area for over 3,000 years feeding on moorland grasses and heather shoots. There are three breeds of sheep unique to Exmoor, distinguished by the length of their woollen fleece to keep them warm in wintertime. Wild Exmoor ponies roam these moorlands and are considered the closest breed to the feral horses remaining in Europe. These ponies are rounded up once a year for a veterinary check over. Sadly, nearly half the pony stock was killed because of military operations on the moors preparing for the D Day landings in Europe towards the end of World War 2. Red deer also roam freely on the moors, and I know of a particular valley where I can always see them graze on the hillside slopes. While protected from hunting since 2004, from huntsmen with stag hounds, many are accidentally killed by passing traffic. Wild red deer in Exmoor. — Photo by John Shortland / Wikimedia Commons To see a stag with his entourage is a sight to behold and to view two stags fighting each other with their antlers during the rutting season is quite a spectacle. Once black grouse and red grouse freely roamed this area but are no longer seen through a reduction in moorland heather management and an increase in tourist pressure. The specific avian species that can be seen are the peregrine falcon, merlin, curlew, stonechat, dipper, Dartford warbler, and ring ouzel. Steeped in history Nearly every village has a medieval church and often a Methodist or Baptist chapel with none more famous than the church at Oare frequently mentioned in RD Blackmore's book 'Lorna Doone; A Romance of Exmoor', written in the 19th century, and many older readers may remember from their schooldays. Today a bronze statue of Lorna Doone is seen outside this national park's headquarters in Dulverton. Neolithic man began to manage wild animals and plant crops besides clearing woodland in the valleys followed by early Bronze and Iron Age settlers. Bronze statue of RD Blackmore's legendary character, Lorna Doone, in Dulverton. — Photo by Alan Rogers Exmoor's earliest recorded mention was in the Doomsday Book of 1086 when it was declared as 'Exmoor Forest – a hunting place for the King'. During the Middle Ages and even much later, sheep rearing for the wool trade dominated the local economy. Wool was collected as spun wool from isolated farms by merchants to be auctioned at local markets such as in the very small town of Dunster. There the old yarn market still occupies a bold place with its traditional wooden slatted roof and the castle on a hillock in the background. Exmoor abounds in folklore, age old traditions and is quintessentially English and truly a real place to visit. My honest suggestions to Malaysian travellers to the UK is to forsake the sights of London and its excessive lodging costs, and stay in my neck of the woods where you can find much cheaper accommodation and moreover enjoy natural scenery relatively unchanged by man. I truly declare that I have no connections to the tourist industry. Camargue England Exmoor National Park France
Yahoo
19-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Lottery grant to help city develop nature access
A lottery grant of £490,000 will help a city improve access to green spaces, the local council says. Sunderland is among 40 areas nationally awarded money from the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Nature Towns and Cities Programme. Plans include a focus on boosting transport and linking community green spaces including the city's coastline and riverbanks. Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said residents would be consulted in the coming weeks and months to help develop schemes. Nature Towns and Cities is a partnership between Natural England, the National Trust and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Sunderland's council will also work with Durham Wildlife Trust and organisations from the voluntary sector as it looks to allocate the funding. Measures are set to include new conservation and horticulture courses, ecological surveys for local Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), such Tunstall Hills and Claxheugh Rocks, and community grants. Welcoming the funding, Mordey said the aims of the forthcoming projects were "all about improving our residents' access to nature and helping them to enjoy some of the fantastic greenspaces, coastline and riverbanks on their doorstep". He added: "As we all know, getting out into the fresh air can really help us to clear our minds and take time for ourselves. "So we'll be looking to work with residents and partners over the coming weeks and months to help us develop the plans further and make sure that we're making the most of this grant funding." Follow BBC Sunderland on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. More on this story The UK's first Nature Towns awarded green funding Related internet links Sunderland City Council Nature Towns and Cities
Daily Mirror
13-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Stunning seaside village with 4-mile golden beach crowned best mini-break in UK
With quaint cobbled streets, stone cottages, golden sands and a rich wildlife - there's no surprise this genteel seaside village was branded one of the UK's prettiest A beautiful seaside village where rolling countryside melts into golden sands and crystal-clear water has been ranked as one of the best staycation spots in the UK. Situated on the idyllic north Norfolk Coast, and enveloped in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Blakeney is the epitome of quintessential seaside charm and serenity. Here, you'll find a slew of acclaimed eateries, cosy pubs, gift shops and art galleries - all of which are nestled in picturesque alleyways and cobblestone walkways that lead out to the coast. At the heart of the village is Blakeney National Nature Reserve, a vast open space boasting uninterrupted views of the coastline beloved by walkers and wildlife lovers alike. Here, you'll be able to spot a range of birds including ringed plovers, oystercatchers, brent geese and common teal - or, you can take a boat trip to visit the seal colonies on Blakeney Point, a huge breeding site for grey seals and their pups. Blakeney is also steeped in history, with routes linking back to the Middle Ages when the village boasted a thriving port and England's largest harbour. "Tucked away in an alley just off the quay is Blakeney Guildhall, where you will find the remains of the house of a prosperous Blakeney merchant, which has a fine 15th century brick-vaulted undercroft," hails Visit North Norfolk, the area's official tourist board. "On the village outskirts, lies St Nicholas church, built between the 13th and 15th century, which unusually, has two towers. Blakeney has lots of quaint, pretty streets to wander around with spectacular views." And of course, there's Blakeney Point Beach - a four-mile stretch of shingle and sand dunes. This area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and is managed by the National Trust. With all of this in mind, it's no surprise Blakeney was recently in The Times' list of the 25 prettiest village mini breaks in the UK. The publication hailed the destination's 'holiday desirability' thanks to its rich wildlife, easy coastal walks, cafés and flint cottages. "Over the past 600 years Blakeney, just inland from the north Norfolk coast, has gone from being a medieval metropolis to a clear contender for Norfolk's cutest village," it added. Located some 134 miles from central London, it takes around three hours and 11 minutes to drive from the Big Smoke up to Blakeney. Alternatively, you can get the train from Liverpool Street over to Sheringham - which usually involves a change in Norwich and takes a similar amount of time. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab single adult fares for as little as £17. After arriving in Sheringham, you'll have to catch the CH1 Coasthopper bus towards Wells-next-the-Sea and alight at Blakeney Bus Shelter. This journey takes just 25 minutes. Accommodation in Blakeney is limited due to its small size, but you'll still be able to find a range of properties at varying costs. For example, a weekend's stay (Friday, August 15-17) at the Manor Coastal Hotel & Inn will set you back £468. This is based on two adults sharing a Classic Single Room. If you're looking for something a little more spacious, check out Delphinium. This three-bedroom holiday home comes with a fully equipped kitchen, 'comfortable seating area' and private garden - but costs a much pricier £784 on the exact same nights. *Prices based on Trainline and listings at the time of writing.
North Wales Live
12-07-2025
- North Wales Live
Will it be worth visiting Gwynedd hotspot if you have to pay to park
The re-introduction of car park fees at a Gwynedd hotspot is looming. But if they come in permanently at Dinas Dinlle will a visit there still be worthwhile? Cyngor Gwynedd held a six-week trial last August and September with charges at the village's car park. Last month the Cabinet agreed proposals for charging from next March 1 to October 31. It would be free parking for the first hour, £2.20 up to two hours, £4.20 up to four hours, and £6 for up to eight hours. They also said there should be a season ticket for locals. Get all the latest Gwynedd news by signing up to our newsletter - sent every Tuesday The next step is a consultation over an Off Street Parking Order. I went along to see what the village has to offer and what the car park has for visitors. Clearly, the setting is stunning with views towards Anglesey and the peaks of Eryri and Pen Llyn including Mynydd Graig Goch, Bwlch Mawr, Gyrn Goch, Gyrn Ddu and Yr Eifl ("The Rivals"). The beach area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) where lapwings nest and the site of an Iron Age hillfort on a grassy crag overlooks the beach. The village itself has a smattering of cafes - The Surfer cafe with an ice cream shop and a chippy aswell as Braf cafe (which closes at 4pm) among them. I had a toffee and butterscotch scoop from The Surfer for £3.25, sat on a slightly weathered table by the beach and contemplated if I'd get value for money if I come once charges are introduced. I soon decided that Mother Nature, the foodie places and the excellent free toilets nearby make it worthwhile coming to Dinas Dinlle. But what about the car park? Well, it has a newish, diamond-shaped concrete mesh which replaced its somewhat potholed predecessor. It was tidy and litter-free when I visited on Wednesday. Picnic tables towards the far end, from the chippy, were a nice touch and there were clear signs about dog control restrictions and the like. However, I heard mixed views about the possible re-introduction of car park charges. With a black tarpaulin covering what ominously looked like a pay & display machine nearby, one local said they had "never asked" for the new car park surface or charges. Indeed, the sometimes erratic Wi-Fi could make contactless payments to it difficult. If drivers had to pay in cash then that would have to be collected by someone overnight, for security reasons, and that would cost Council Tax payers money - undermining any takings. A Brummie caravan owner told me he would stomach car park charges if they were imposed for the time it took to recoup the cost of the resurfacing, then stopped. If they were permanent he said he'd simply go to Morfa Bychan (Black Rock Sands) where it costs "£5 to park on the beach all day". Beware of the tides, I thought. However, a woman visitor said she'd be content to pay £2 a day but not if it's ratcheted up to £6 or £7. She also confided: "It's nice that it's free at the moment." I was inclined to agree. I'd be willing to pay a few pounds for signs, roadsweeping and maintenance, for a trip to Dinas Dinlle's lovely beach. But there is a line between making a fair contribution and being exploited. Of course, those at Cyngor Gwynedd who know about the council's finances will have their own views too.
