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Geodiversity Heritage SitesHow are GHS chosen? Drawing on a primary survey which identified over 850 geodiversity sites in Lancashire, members of the GeoLancashire use four criteria to assess whether a site should be notified as a GHS (formerly known as RIGS) to local councils. These are: • Educational value How are sites protected? GHS do not have the same protection in law as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. However, they were recognised as geodiversity heritage sites in the county structure plan and in conformity with that, many district councils adopted policies in their local plans aimed at protecting such sites. This system has now changed: the structure plan has been replaced by the North West Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) which includes a policy which expressly covers geoconservation. In place of Local Plans, the district councils now have to draw up Local Development Frameworks which must conform to the RSS and therefore cover geoconservation. In addition to that, all district councils in Lancashire have signed up to National Indicator 197 which sets targets with regard to the active management of Local (conservation) Sites. These include geodiversity sites so in time we anticipate working with district councils on the management of such sites. Site access Many sites are located on private land and the permission of the landowner must be acquired before venturing on to them. However, a significant number of sites is also on public land or where access agreements exist. In addition, most sites are close to or are crossed by public rights of way. Site records Detailed survey records of all GHS are held by the Group on a database. Copies of these are available through the Secretary on payment of an administration fee. Table of Notified GHS in Lancashire
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