Phase 1 Habitat and NVC Survey – Durham Coast

Client – South Tyneside Council

Key Services – Habitat Assessment

Duration – Summer 2019

Project Overview – Phase 1 Habitat and NVC survey of ~11km of coastline within the Durham Coast Special Area of Conservation (SAC), County Durham

Ecological Input – In order to inform South Tyneside and Sunderland Councils management of the SAC and provide a baseline for monitoring, we carried out Phase 1 Habitat and National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys to classify habitats, their distribution, notable species and potential pressures.

Using the popular coastal path, our team worked to identify and map the complex mosaic of coastal and terrestrial habitats using Phase 1 and NVC classifications, recording all vascular plant and bryophyte species observed, and pressures affecting the SAC.

Outcomes – We were pleased to report the presence of qualifying habitat comprising species-rich maritime and para-maritime vegetation communities; as well as notable species including narrow-leaved marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza traunsteinerioides) and prickly saltwort (Salsola kali subsp. kali).

Our observations in light of natural and anthropogenic influences on the coastline allowed us to draw conclusions and work with both councils to provide recommendations specific to each section. This will facilitate management of the SAC which aims to retain and promote qualifying habitat and priority species, while catering for both people and nature on the site. We also communicated our findings and recommendations to the council by leading a site visit along the SAC, which proved to be a valuable experience giving context to our report and mapping, assisting those who will be managing this precious area.