Scottish Planning Policy specifies that Local Nature Conservation Sites designated for their geodiversity (known as Local Geodiversity Sites) should be selected for their value for scientific study and education, their historical significance and cultural and aesthetic value, and for their potential to promote public awareness and enjoyment (SPP3, 2014, policy 198).
This training day is aimed at volunteers who would like to get involved in identifying Local Geodiversity Sites in their area, and Local Authority planners looking for support in enhancing recognition of geodiversity in Local Development Plans and Biodiversity Action Plans. This will be an informal day to facilitate discussion between interested parties, and involve a visit to a potential LGS to get hands-on practice in assessing the geodiversity value of a local site.
Date: Saturday 27 April 2019
Location: Birnam Arts & Conference Centre Station Rd, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0DS and the Hermitage, Dunkeld
Train from Glasgow / Edinburgh arrives 11.33am; from Inverness 11.37am. Birnam Arts is two minutes walk from the station, follow signs through the underpass and on down to the main road, turn right and Birnam Arts is 100 metres further on the right.
12 noon Indoor session: Introduction to Local Geodiversity Sites, the planning context and the process of identifying and recording sites.
1.30pm Lunch (included – please notify any dietary requirements).
2.15pm Visit to the Hermitage, practical session to assess a potential LGS.
(Car share to/from the Hermitage car park, just off the A9. From there it is a 800m walk each way on a good path to the Hermitage site).
4.30pm Finish.
Train to Glasgow / Edinburgh departs 4:35pm; to Inverness 4:33pm.
Places are limited, and must be booked in advance. Contact Angus Miller – chair@scottishgeodiversityforum.org | 0131 555 5488.
Cost: Free, although a donation of £10 per person on the day would be appreciated to cover costs.
Further information:
Scottish Geodiversity Forum – Geodiversity for Local Authorities
Scottish Natural Heritage – Local Geodiversity Action Plans
British Geological Survey – Geodiversity, geoheritage and geotourism
Scotland's Geodiversity Charter 