“Now that humans have co-opted so much of the planet, the time has come to cease representation & to partner with nature instead in acts of vital co-creation”
Travis Beck (1)
DESIGN & ACCESS STATEMENT
Barnaby Baker 33253700
Barnaby Baker 33253700
CONTENTS 1.0
Introduction
2.0
Vision
3.0
Method
4.0
Change of Land Use
5.0
Strategic Framework
6.0
Key Themes
7.0
Route Section : Dowlaw
8.0
References
References in this document are listed numerically in brackets within text
1. 0 I N T R O D U C T I O N
The purpose of this design and access statement is twofold: to provide a design guide on how to develop this area to realise vision of the Wild Coast Route, and to provide a clear proposal for its development. Key themes to be incorporated along the route and methods of implementation are illustrated. This document also outlines a masterplan for a section of the route, incorporating explanations of the themes and methods for implementation. The Wild Coast Route is a long-term development of a section of coastline running from Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve in England to John Muir Country Park in Scotland. The route will connect these two large SSSIs with a new ecological corridor and improved existing paths. Within this, the project makes connections by linking existing areas of ecological importance and creating new ones - forming islands along the route. These islands will eventually merge to create a continuous corridor. This corridor will be made up of self-willed land. This project area has been chosen for its perceived natural beauty, its already existing nature reserves, and the popular tourism it attracts. By building on these strong features the Wild Coast Route has high potential for joining existing ‘dots’ of nature and for being in an accessible place for people to use them. The perception of the area’s natural beauty is fundamental to the project, which questions this widespread view through the proposal of a new concept of natural landscape. This will be carried out using the process of rewilding. This project is long-term. It will take decades of planning, growth and development to implement but will provide a usable wild space for the public to enjoy long into the future.
John Muir Country Park
Dunbar Eyemouth Cocksburnspath
N Berwick-UponTweed S
0
10km
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve John Muir Country Park
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
1.1 T H E R O U T E S This 81km route is made up of three long distance paths, the Northumberland Coast Path, the Berwickshire Coastal path and the John Muir Way, these are also part of a larger scheme - The North Sea Trail. The Wild Coast Route will take between four days to a week to walk. Currently all routes are used by young and old, and are far more popular in the summer months than the winter. Visitors to the area tend to be on holiday and use sections of the routes for day walks, rather than long distance journeys, although there are a number of guided ‘treks’ offered by companies. Most visitors walk the routes, although a few cycle or ride horses. The Wild Coast Route will connect these three routes and link with the North Sea Trail through improved signage and the development of a homogenous corridor, whilst still maintaining the identity of each section.
John Muir Link
Berwickshire Coastal Path
Northumberland Coast Path (section)
• Dunbar & John Muir Country Park to Cocksburnspath • 16.5km • 4.5 - 5 hrs
• Cocksburnspath to BerwickUpon-Tweed • 45km • 2 days • 7,500 walkers per year
• Berwick-Upon-Tweed to Lindisfarne • 19.5km • 4.5 - 6 hrs • 3000 walkers per year • Established as part of The North Sea Trail (sign pictured is North Sea Trail waymarker)
The North Sea Trail, shown in blue.
• Long distance route aiming to link paths on all sides of the North Sea • Uses heritage, history and the coastline to tie the participating countries together.
John Muir Link
John Muir Country Park Berwickshire Coastal Path Dunbar Eyemouth Cocksburnspath
Berwick-UponTweed
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
N
S
0
Northumberland Coast Path (section)
10km
1. 2 R E W I L D I N G & S E L F - W I L L E D L A N D : AN INTRODUCTION Rewilding and creating self-willed land is said to be the best possible ecological method for enhancing biodiversity and creating ecosystems (2). Rewilding is the restoration of landscapes to a state before human influence. This is a growing trend of ecology across Europe. Most of the work done for rewilding involves simply stepping back from the landscape and allowing it to do its own thing. Measures are made to remove forms of human influence in the landscape: ditches that would drain naturally wet landscapes are filled in, fences and walls are removed where they may restrict animal movements and migration, invasive or non-native species are eradicated from places where they may be in competition with local plants or wildlife. Once rewilded the land becomes self-willed. A self-willed landscape is subject to little direct human influence: it is not managed and it is not controlled in any way; it is allowed to develop and grow. In a self-willed landscape all natural processes of plants, animals, soils and water are allowed to take place.
2.0 VISION
John Muir Country Park
The Wild Coast Route provides an exciting prospect which builds on an already popular long distance route that has yet to fulfil its true potential. Fundamentally this route will develop spaces through the principles of rewilding to satisfy the innate human need to connect with nature. Providing an uplifting experience for walkers, hikers, bird watchers and lovers of the outdoors, ever-changing and far-reaching sea views contrast with undulating rugged countryside and magical light. Drawing on inspiration from the natural beauty and connections with John Muir, an early believer in creating and preserving wild spaces, the creation of the Wild Coast Route will add to this experience. This enhanced landscape will provide a growing and dynamic corridor of wild vegetation in which flora and fauna are allowed to develop by their own accord. Those exploring the route will find themselves immersed in a changing landscape, free from human dominance and replaced by a partnership with the natural world.
2 .1 A I M S & O B J E C T I V E S
To create space for people to connect with the environment
To enhance human use & experience within the landscape
To create self willed landscapes*
To increase biodiversity
Through the development of an existing coastal path this project will create a homogeneous corridor where people can immerse themselves in nature - whilst remaining close to a human dominated area.
Through establishing spaces for shelter and rest, defining and framing areas of the landscape, the human experience of the route will be focused and considered.
A self willed landscape is an ecosystem governed not by human management but by its own natural processes. To create landscapes of this type the project will use the ecological process of re-wilding.
In creating wild space the project will increase biodiversity in the areas affected.
Through small amounts of planting of endemic species and allowing the processes of natural succession the land will be encouraged to progress to wilderness. The vegetation will visibly change creating a dynamic route for visitors over the years.
Traditional agriculture will be removed from some areas and replaced by more sustainable alternatives, or simply by new wild space. This will make the main difference in wildlife numbers and overall biodiversity.
Through creating wilderness and increasing biodiversity, people will be able to interact and connect directly with nature through an enriched experience. Wilson’s biophilia hypothesis identifies this as an innate human need. The proposed route will be accessible for day trips or longer periods away into the wild.
Direct contact with natural diversity can be seen as essential to human understanding and wellbeing. Shelters, campgrounds, looped path systems, viewpoints and educational points will provide a means to enhance the human experience within the landscape.
The methods used in this project will aim to create spaces that require minimal management to achieve a landscape that is largely left to its own devices. *a term from philosopher Jay Hansford Vest
This will happen through the creation of new habitats.
The increase in biodiversity will demonstrate to the public the land’s potential to sustain a wide range of species of plants and animals.
2.2 CONCEPT IMAGE
The overall aim of the project is in two parts: the improvement of landscape for people to immerse themselves within; and the creation of wild space for an increase in biodiversity in the area.
3.0 METHOD These diagrams show the long term methods used to develop the project area and the potential future of the project. The project begins by identifying the current ecological areas, then example sites will be implemented as physical demonstrations. Further sites will be selected and developed along the route to create the continuous corridor. Assuming the success of the Wild Coast Route the methods used could be continued inland, spreading out using existing routes or tracts of land such as rivers, valleys, trainlines or motorway corridors. Alternatively these methods could be used along the route of The North Sea Trail creating a Wild Coast Route surrounding the North Sea.
AREAS IDENTIFIED AS ECOLOGICALLY IMPORTANT
TWO SITES CREATED
These sites provide isolated islands currently defined as being of ecological importance. It is argued here that the whole route should have this status.
These two sites will be developed at the beginning of the project. The interventions undertaken here will demonstrate the approach that will eventually be implemented along the whole route, providing the continuous wilderness corridor for people, flora and fauna.
Thornton Glen Nature Reserve
Dowlaw Farm
Eyemouth Town
John Muir Country Park (Firth of Forth SSSI) - a nature reserve named after locally born wild space pioneer John Muir
John Muir Country Park (Firth of Forth SSSI)
Pease Dean Nature Reserve (SSSI)
Cocklawburn Dunes Nature Reserve (Lindisfarne SSSI)
St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve (Lindisfarne SSSI)
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve (Lindisfarne SSSI)
N
N
Proposed development sites S
S
Existing nature reserves
Existing nature reserves 0
10km
0
10km
SITES TO BE CREATED & JOINED
WIDER CONNECTIONS
These sites shown in green outlined areas that could be used as ecological islands along the route. These islands will be joined at a later stage, but can be developed sooner as stepping stones along the route. The areas are not exclusive, more or others will be created subject to surveys and feasibility studies of the project area.
The methods used in the project area could be expanded into its surroundings through ecological connections inland to existing and improved biodiverse areas. This could be done through making use of the many deep valleys and river corridors that stretch inland.
Dunbar Town
Coldingham Loch - trout fishery & heathland
Lamberton area - pastoral land
John Muir Country Park (Firth of Forth SSSI) Scremerston area - rich agricultural land Penmanshiel Moor woodland and moorland
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve (Lindisfarne SSSI)
Potential development sites N
N
Proposed development sites Berwick-Upon-Tweed - townscape
S
S
Existing nature reserves 0
10km
0
10km
4.0 CHANGE OF LAND USE PRECEDENT: WILD ENNERDALE
Wild Ennerdale is a joint rewilding initiative established in 2002 between the Forestry Commission, the National Trust and United Utilities to create a wild landscape alongside socioeconomic benefits for the local community (3). This wild valley was planned for ‘the benefit of people, relying more on natural processes to shape its landscape and ecology’, to sustain livelihoods and enhance the quality of the valley (4). Land for this project is all owned by the projects creators the Forestry Commission, the National Trust and United Utilities. As these companies have control of the land they were able to transform it from farm land to wild space. This project still maintains some grazing from cattle, although this is greatly reduced compared to the intense sheep farming previously. This 14.5km long, 4711ha site in the Lake District National Park is being transformed through the replacement of what was planations of exotic species such as sitka spruce into native woodland and areas of self-willed land. Other features in the landscape such as concrete bridges are being replaced by lower impact alternatives. Wild Ennerdale’s approach of making key interventions in some areas and stepping back in others has increased wildlife numbers in the valley, and has created a higher engagement in the landscape among certain groups (5). Wild Ennerdale has been criticised for insufficient collaboration with the local community, and a lack of recognition for the ‘complex interrelationships among people, place, and production’ (6). This is a factor that must be considered throughout the development of the Wild Coast Route.
4.0 CHANGE OF LAND USE PRECEDENT: TREES FOR LIFE
Formed by Alan Watson Featherstone in the 1980s, Trees for Life is a rewilding project with a 250 year vision ‘to restore the Caledonian Forest and all its constituent species of flora and fauna to the Scottish Highlands’ (7). Much of this projects’ efforts go in to restoring hunting estates that have been managed for sport. This management and the exploding deer populations in the Highlands have prevented the regeneration of woodland, causing the great areas of heathers and grasslands seen in the area today. What used to be rich diverse woodland is now dominated by monocultures with little wildlife. Trees For Life aims to restore this to woodland. In order to achieve their vision this organisation has purchased a 10,00ha hunting estate, Dundreggan. As a charity trees for life raised the money to purchase this vast area of land for the purpose of rewilding. They have done this through donations from people with a passion for ecology and rewilding, and also by giving people the opportunity to sponsor trees or acres of land, a map on their website allows you to select a tile of ordnance survey map and pay for the cost of rewilding it, this sponsorship also has gift options. Supporters can also become a ‘Friend of Dundreggan’, with different levels of monthly donations available with returns of dedicated trees and publications in return. As well as using their own land Trees for Life has been allowed to plant and protect woodland other landowners estates and farms. They also work with the Scottish Forestry Commission to restore some of their plantations to native woodland. Trees for Life’s diverse strategies for collecting donations and acquiring land has enabled them to restore and rewild a huge area of Scotland.
Above: Trees for Life project area. Right: the landscapes being rewilded
4 .1 C H A N G E O F L A N D U S E It is suggested that agriculture in selected areas along the route will be replaced to allow the introduction of selfwilled landscapes. All along the route a relatively narrow strip of land directly adjacent to the coastline will be utilised for the project. In some areas where agriculture exists and is highly productive this strip will be narrow, just a small band. In areas where the agriculture is less productive it will be much wider. This is an efficient method of utilising the land as it will leave a high percentage of the productive areas intact yet improve areas of low productivity by developing ecological landscapes.
farmers are still receiving between £200 and £300 per hectare (10) from EU subsidies, so if part of their agricultural land is to be used for the Wild Coast Project they will need to be reimbursed or have a new income from the land. Comparable start up grants and yearly payments are available to English and Scottish landowners from the Forestry Commission for planting native woodland or scrub, and if in ‘target areas’ (as some areas of the project are), then these payments are increased. Grants such as these can provide up to £3600 per ha, for 5 years (11 & 12).
Sheep farming dominates many areas of the route. Areas where sheep farming is prevalent in the UK are often perceived as wild and pristine but sheep grazing can be destructive to ecology and natural systems. Livestock grazing suppresses ecosystems and prevents the natural regeneration of trees, bushes, diverse perennials, grasses and groundcovers, instead creating areas of monoculture typified by short cut grassland and stunted shrubs. The compaction of the earth from hooves creates a harder, less permeable surface to the soil structure making it difficult for new seeds to set and germinate (8).
The success of this project depends upon land availability and spaces can only be developed as they become available. Establishing a positive relationship of collaboration between farmers the local community and project management will be crucial.
The areas of low productivity under discussion here are currently grazed by sheep. This can be seen as both an inefficient use of land and ecologically damaging. Sheep farming in the UK is more often than not is heavily supported by subsidies from the European Union (EU), to the point where farms would run at a loss without them. In fact some sheep farmers are reported to sell their lambs for £20 less per head than it has cost to rear them (9). These subsidies encourage an industry to persist on land that might otherwise be left to its own devices. With the current possibility of the UK leaving the EU these subsidies may not exist in the near future. Although sheep farming often operates at a loss, the
Where landowners do not wish to participate in developing their land for the project, but are willing to sell it, charities such as the RSPB, John Muir Trust or The Wilderness Foundation may be approached to purchase the land. These charities and many others support the creation of wild space (13). Alternatively it is proposed that a new charity could be set up in the name of the project in order to purchase land and further the creation of the route. The rewilding movement is becoming increasingly popular and its supporters are keen to help with the installation of rewilding projects, whether financially or as hands on volunteers. It is envisaged that this support would cover the cost of transforming the project’s area from agriculture to self-willed landscapes. To replace some sheep dominated spaces along the coastal strip with self-willed landscapes would create new economic benefits to the area from eco-tourism, especially if the sites become established enough for the release of animals such as pine marten or wild boar. As was the case after the reintroduction of sea eagles on the island of Rum, millions of pounds may be generated from visitors flocking to see rare and exciting wildlife within wilderness landscapes (14).
5.0 S TRATEGIC FRAMEWORK
In order for the project area to be developed in unison each element is broken down and explained in methods of how to be implemented. This will allow separate bodies to be able to design different sections of the route whilst creating a route that has continuous themes and principles. The strategic framework (below) illustrates that the vision and the aims and objectives are driven for the people, the ecology and the places along the route. In order to implement the vision 9 key themes have been developed as tools for creation. These themes will need to be able to be implemented in both rural and urban landscapes in order to create the continuous route.
Key Drivers
People
Vision, Aims & Objectives
Ecology
Place
Key Themes
Implementation areas
Paths of long distance routes Current & new activities Access & secondary paths Campsites
Rural
Rewilding of species Planting & management Interpretation boards & waymarkers Site selection & space Shelter & viewpoints Parking
Urban
6.0 KEY THEMES
The following pages will explain the key themes outlined in the strategic framework diagram. These themes will be explained in relation to the implementation areas and will always be considered with the key drivers, the aims and objectives and vision in mind. This will form a guide for designing the route and will illustrate the proposals being put forward for development. The themes will be explained with the use of text, precedent image and conceptual visualisations.
Steps of the route, just outside Cocksburnspath
6 .1 C U R R E N T & N E W A C T I V I T I E S
The area is currently popular for tourists, in particular visiting Holy Island at Lindisfarne, caravanning and walking the coast. A large number of visitors also come for kite surfing, climbing and fishing holidays or day trips. Bird watchers come to the Lindisfarne National Nature reserve and John Muir Country Park, this country park is also a destination in itself, other nature reserves draw smaller numbers but are popular with walkers and mountain bikers. The historic fishing towns, and many castles and forts of the border regions along the route attract people interested in the heritage of the area, museums and heritage trails support this. Golf courses are found along the coastal route, mainly on the outskirts of the towns. Geology and palaeontology enthusiasts are drawn to the area due to important discoveries found here. Overall the area is popular for a wide range of activities, with a large number of these being outdoor based. Interventions of The Wild Coast Route will not restrict any of these actives, but will provide more outdoor space for people to use. Tourists to the area will be able to camp in the sites provided, which should be located at key points close to active areas and stationed along the route for people travelling the whole distance, these are likely to appeal to the walkers, cyclists and surfers and climbers due to their interest in a whole outdoor experience. The heritage of the area should be preserved in the display and signage for the historic forts and castles, these could be enhanced in way to connect people to the land in a historical way. Golf courses can be integrated into the route through the use of allowing ‘rough’ areas to become self willed, providing owners are willing. People with interests in nature, such as the bird watchers and nature watchers will have a large interest in the project, information should be provided for these to encourage these activities with hides being constructed in important areas. Geology and palaeontology will be preserved naturally and paths should be maintained to provide access for important destinations such as Siccar Point. People will be attracted to the area for the purpose of seeing a rewilded landscape, and the wild space will provide opportunity for children (and adults) to play, escape and explore into a much needed freedom of the outdoors, where nature is dominating and controlling the land. The popularity of outdoor activities here allows for the Wild Coast Route to link places together and provide the webbing for a continuos outdoor active area.
6 . 2 PAT H S O F LO N G D I S TA N C E R O U T E S : RURAL The paths of the route are people’s main form of interaction with the project. These provide the network for people to access the area. The whole length of the route already has existing footpaths that make up the three long distance routes and these should generally stay the same in terms of location and surfacing. In some cases paths run along roads and where possible would be moved to places where visitors can feel more immersed in the landscape, this will be into areas of the wild land. Where the paths are moved to new locations they will be low impact and simple. They will follow moderate gradients and be obvious to follow, but they would also make the user feel their interaction with the landscape, and notice the terrain they are walking across. Paths are designed as simple interventions to maintain the feel of being in a wild space. They will not have to be flat or have bridges over water. The act of walking the route is part of the interaction with nature intended with this project, and to achieve this there would be little avoidance of natural features of the landscape. Despite this, measures should be made along these routes to provide access for wheelchairs or buggies in areas where possible.
Example of section of the route currently following the road, these will be diverted from roads to new paths where possible.
A good example section of the route, the path is off the road and surrounded with natural vegetation, without fencing.
New paths will be created by mowing a clear 2 meter wide route. They will be clearly signed in order to people to use one main thoroughfare that will be worn in as people use it.
Small streams will be crossed with stepping stones or have areas flattened to create small shallow fords. Fords have an advantage over stepping stones and are the ideal form to be used as they are easier to use for mountain bikers, people on horses or users in wheelchairs or buggies.
In particularly boggy or wet areas boardwalks will be considered for use in order to prevent erosion of the land from boots. These would be used to preserve the vegetation below. Board walks such as these or small bridges would also be used to cross deeper streams. Board walks will be a minimum width of 1.2 meters to allow for wheel chair crossings.
Where slopes are too steep to walk up or it is impractical to create a path ‘zig zagging’ up hills then steps will be used. Steps created will be of even height and will be provided with handrails to allow for easy access. This will restrict wheel chair access so should be included in signs and maps of the route.
6 . 2 PAT H S O F LO N G D I S TA N C E R O U T E S : URBAN In the urban areas paths are already built, mostly along roads, pavements and in some cases they run along the beach. In these areas it is unavoidable to put the paths into nature by moving them from roads. The paths could be diverted around the outskirts but it is not needed, many visitors to the route use the paths to travel between these towns and enjoy exploring these as tourists. The urban areas are as important a feature of the route as the rural and should be kept as a part of it. A bit of wilderness will be brought into these towns in the form of planting, but the theme of nature will be brought into these urban spaces through public art and paving details. In these urban areas the streets and pavements that the route runs along will have public art and paving details (such as these pictured) incorporated into them to embody wilderness. Artists will be commissioned for works inspired by the native flora and fauna of the route to be introduced to spaces in the towns. A paving detail shall be designed by an artist for use in all of the towns as a small inset for way marking and for a tie to the surrounding natural landscapes. These elements will not just be for the people using the route, they will be for the people living and visiting the towns. For these people the pieces will celebrate the natural world and provide memories and reminders, evoking feelings from the people in the towns. Alongside planting, these details and commissioned pieces will bring elements and thoughts from the surrounding landscape into the townscape.
Paving inset details in Amsterdam
Public art
Ailsa Magnus’s Durham timeline historical themed paving details
Digital Orca, by Douglas Coupland in Vancouver
6 . 3 AC C E S S & S E C O N DA RY PAT H S
This section will explain the disabled access routes to be provided, and what has been called secondary paths - paths in the sites that are not the long distance paths but smaller loops or access paths. This section refers mainly to the rural areas of the route as townscapes will already have extensive path networks along them. Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) standard access will not be feasible along the whole route due to the rocky landscape and steep hills and cliffs the path runs up and down but paths should be made as accessible as possible within connected areas. In order to provide a form of disabled access slopes should run at moderate gradients and be kept maintained to a 2 metre width, field boundary walls (where agriculture is no longer there) are to have gaps made in them where the path runs through to eliminate the need for climbing over them. Any stream crossings, board walks and bridges should be designed to make it possible for disabled use, stairs would be the main restriction but where possible ramps should be integrated for wheel chair users and handrails are to be provided for those of poor sight or balance. Sections of the long distance Wild Coast Route will be challenging but will be designed to be possible for disabled and wheel chair visitors, which for some people will be a welcomed challenge. In order to provide access for visitors that are unable to use other routes DDA access paths will be provided. These are to be created at areas where the landscape allows, and where there are areas of particular interest and popularity - they will be built in places people want to go. Destinations such as viewing points or shelters will be constructed for this purpose. These routes will also either run from locations where DDA access already is (this would mainly be from the towns) or from car parks. These paths will need to meet the latest DDA access standards. The secondary paths are routes and loop paths that are to be provided for people to visit areas of the route for short walks or to access distensions in the area, such as the forts, castles or climbing locations for example. They are also to be provided to access the campsites. These secondary paths will have a surface treatment on them in places, such as compacted hoggin or gravel, as they will be less used and this will prevent them becoming overgrown. The secondary paths would be DDA accessible wherever possible. All areas within the Wild Coast Route project area will be open access but these paths will provide some form of guidance.
Secondary path treatment
Gaps to be provided in dry stone walls
Style of proposed secondary paths
Ramped access path
Wheelchair ford crossing
6 . 4 PA R K I N G
Visitors experiencing the route will mostly be travelling by foot, but are likely to be getting here by car. To cater for this car parks will be provided where there is a lack, but there are existing car parks along the route. These car parks will have DDA access routes from them so that anybody can get out of their car and explore the area. Proposed car parks will be constructed with a porous surface such as compacted gravel or reinforced grass to keep with the natural feel and to prevent surface runoff and would not be obtrusive or in high points of the site to avoid spoiling the views from the route. Planting will be used around these car parks in order to screen them further. These car parks will also provide space for campervans to stay over-night for people visiting the area. Space for cycle parking will also be provided for people who are arriving on bikes and wish to leave them somewhere safe whilst walking around the sites. Car parking in urban areas of the route shall also be provided where necessary, although visitors will be encouraged to arrive with public transport in these areas.
Campervans will be permitted at car parks along the route
Reinforced grass
Cycle parking
Compacted gravel car park
6 . 5 I N T E R P R E TAT I O N B OA R D S & WAY M A R K E R S
Interpretation boards will be needed all along the route for visitors and people in the area to understand the process of self willed land in the area. This is a necessity for visitors to know why land is not being managed and for them to appreciate the processes. These boards will also introduce the wildlife and plant species in the area, numbers of these animals should be displayed in a way that can change as species numbers develop. The boards are to be developed with a graphic designer, and are to be matching along the route to provide unison. Stands for these interpretation boards will be similar all along the route, they will all be made of the same material to continue a theme along the journey. Maps of paths are to be positioned at key points such as car parks, viewing points, shelters or cross roads. A simple waymarking symbol will be designed with a graphic designer in order to guide people along the long distance path with simple, un-intruding but obvious directions. The collection of signs and symbols will all be similar and be instantly recognisable as the signs for the Wild Coast Route, and will provide the information and guidance necessary to travel along and understand the journey.
Waymarking symbols should be designed to be as instantly recognisable and as interchangeable as the markers for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage
6 . 6 S H E LT E R & V I E W P O I N T S
Viewpoints and shelters will be installed at key locations along the route. Where possible this will be done with the re-use of old structures, but as these are not regular enough for shelter to be provided by them exclusively, some new buildings will be created. The location for these structures will be at popular areas, points of interest and where views are celebrated or are worth celebrating. Where possible these structures will be accessible to all and to DDA standards. The buildings will be of low ecological impact and would integrate local, natural materials such as local stones or organic timber or reed. Viewing points and shelters will also be created for viewing wildlife in certain areas. The locations for wildlife watching areas will be decided on with recommendation by project ecologists alongside the landscape architects to ensure they do not disturb wildlife and are in the best possible places for watching this. These shelters will provide locations and icons in the landscape as focal points to walk to and provide space for visitors to stop and take in the landscape. They will also provide reference points from which returning visitors can see the landscape change as it becomes more wild and self-controlled.
Filtered views from the bird-hide at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales.
6 . 6 S H E LT E R & V I E W P O I N T S RE-USE & REGENERATION In order to maintain all areas of green landscape for their ecological benefits, shelters or viewing points will be constructed by re-using derelict structures along the route. Many abandoned agricultural or fisherman’s cottages lie along the route (such as this one pictured below on the route near Dunbar) and wherever possible these will be used in preference over new structures. They will be developed with minimal yet considered regeneration to provide shelter from the wind and rain. Ecology will be kept in mind whilst designing these, with elements such as green roofs and recycled timber being used. Seating and forms of comfort will be created within these buildings, to the same high standard that would be created in a new structure. The rubble of these structures and walls of which the pointing has come loose provide shelter and hibernacula for insects, lizards, other amphibians and small mammals. Wherever possible these small but important habitats have to be maintained, or if this is not possible then replacement forms should be installed. The recycling of these abandoned buildings will maintain the ecological credibility of the project by keeping all installation impacts to a minimum.
Derelict structure appropriate for re-use
‘Living roof’ installed for shelter from the rain, in an ecologically low impact way
Front section of wall reinstated for shelter from the wind
Fire place restored to provide a function to warm up or cook meals on Long timber or stone bench for multiple person seating
Conceptual image of some methods that will be used when regenerating old structures
6.7 CAMPSITES
Australian national park campsites are the main influence for the style of campgrounds to be implemented in the Wild Coast Route. All national parks in Australia have some form of camping areas provided for visitors to stay at. There are often free, although a few of the larger ones have a small charge. The sites that are the main influence and precedent should be taken from are the smaller free ones. These have the feel of ‘wild camping’ yet have basic facilities such as water and toilets. They are all integrated into the landscape with just enough area cleared of vegetation to provide space for pitches and parking. Mostly the sites have designated fire areas in each pitch with built in bbq cooking platforms, enabling visitors to arrive with their food, and some fuel and cook on a fire. These campgrounds have a very wild feel, immerse the visitor in nature and are extremely low impact. These are the points that will be used in the campgrounds for the Wild Coast Route.
Built in cooking equipment
Just enough space cleared for pitching tents and parking
Wild camping feel
6.7 CAMPSITES
This section provides a explanation of the design criteria and feeling to be created for the campsites along the route. Campground areas will be in place along the route providing free outdoor accommodation for travellers along this coastal path. The campgrounds will all be based on the following design and with a set criteria for the elements contained in these spaces of outdoor rest. The campgrounds will feature: • • • • •
Space for fire Some shelter from wind and rain Accessible water - this does not have to be potable, visitors can boil to purify Enough flat ground to pitch multiple tents Composting toilets
Works on campgrounds will be minimal, with as little disturbance on the land as possible. Any earthworks will be designed and calculated to prevent any arisings being removed from the campground area. Not only will these campgrounds provide a place for people to stop for the night, they will give space for rest, shelter or cooking whilst on day visits or simply passing through. Campgrounds should be located along the route at regular intervals, with the intension that they are stationed at ideal places for visitors walking the whole route and camping along the way. They should be positioned to take in views, avoid the worst of the weather (or be sheltered with planting), be in useful places i.e near active areas such as popular climbing, kite-surfing or tourist destinations and they should take in elements such as sunsets and sunrises. They should not be positioned near to existing caravan parks or campsites to avoid conflict. The campgrounds will not be accessible by vehicle. The car parks will provide some space for campervans and there are many caravan sites along the route providing for these, whereas there are currently far less campgrounds. This will also allow for the proposed campsites to be in more secluded areas with vegetated pitches adding to peoples immersion in nature (as explained previously the Australian national park campsites do allow cars but they are in far less popular areas for caravanning as the Wild Coast Project area - here the campgrounds would be overrun). This impression (right) shows the atmosphere intended at these campgrounds. The feeling of wilderness with views of urban will contrast to allow people to escape into the wild whilst being aware of society. Campgrounds with fires will provide opportunity for socialising in a pure form - cooking, telling stories and watching the embers burn down.
6.8 REWILDING OF SPECIES
Rewilding involves reintroducing lost species to aid ecosystems and restore balance. In rewilding projects in Europe a frequent aim is to re-introduce top predators such as the wolf, bear or lynx, often to control deer or other grazing animals numbers and distribution. In this project these top predators would be unlikely contenders for re-release but animals such as the pine marten or wild boar should be considered for reintroduction. The pine marten’s distribution once covered the whole of the UK. During the 19th century there was sustained persecution of the animal leading to its near extinction in this country. In 1988 the species was given protected status and since then has been slowly making a come back (15) (diagram right). The pine marten’s renewed presence in central Ireland has directly led to the decline of the invasive grey squirrel, allowing the native red squirrel’s return (16). As the red Squirrel and the pine marten have evolved together in this country they have developed a natural predator prey balance. The grey squirrel has not had this time to develop evasion tactics from the pine martin and so is an easy target (17). This form of species control has proved more efficient cost effective and long-lasting than the cull implemented by government programs (18). In the area of the Wild Coast Route red squirrel numbers are low, whereas the grey is thriving. There are still red squirrels in the area which provides justification to reintroduce pine martens here as they may be able to push the balance and aid the red squirrels recovery. Pine martens have been seen in areas not far from the project area - in the Kilder Forest, just south of the Scottish border. Part of the project area is currently classified as medium suitability for pine martens - this could be improved with the addition of more broadleaved woodland, scrub and natural grassland (19). One of the proposed example sites is expected to hold around 26ha of woodland and scrub, this area is only 4km of the 81km route. Using this as an example around 526ha of woodland and scrub can be created along the route. This would provide enough habitat for pine marten reintroduction. To introduce pine martens a full feasibility study would have to be conducted, this would be best done after the project had been ‘live’ and running for around 15-20 years when larger areas of woodland habitat were established.
Wild boar are another species considered for reintroduction in the project area. These animals are recognised
Core population (20)
Areas with recent reliable records
6.8 REWILDING OF SPECIES
as a keystone species as they positively influence the landscape through clearing and turning the ground thus encouraging new tree growth (21). In particular they benefit trees such as the Scots Pine which need recently turned earth for seed germination (21 &22). This is a tree that is present and proposed in the project area and so boar would aid its establishment. If numbers of boar were to increase significantly they might provide an alternative source of income for farmers through hunting. The Guisachan Wild Boar Project in Glen Moriston, Invernesshire is carrying out trials to discover if this is a financially viable alternative to ordinary agriculture (23). Studies so far at this project have found that the optimum number of wild boar for a positive impact on the ecosystem is approximately 1 boar per ha (24). The reintroduction of these species would be subject to public consultation, feasibility studies and extensive collaboration with ecologists. The self-willed land of the route would have to become well-established before considering the reintroduction of these animals. As with the pine martens any reintroduction would be subject to the project becoming established for a period of around 10-20 years to allow for sufficient woodland and detailed feasibility studies would be needed to be carried out. As with the whole project this is a long term goal.
6.9 PL ANTING & MANAGEMENT: URBAN In urban areas planting will be introduced along the streets that the route follows. Planted areas will be created with topsoil from the surrounding areas (see diagram below), seeds of native species will be collected from the local area and sown on these beds. The beds will be deep enough for trees for shrubs to establish. This process expects a collection of native vegetation to develop within the towns. Plants will be nurtured through to establishment with watering and monitoring to ensure that beds of dense cover are created. Mostly these beds will not be weeded or cut, they will be allowed to be self-willed as much as possible. Information boards will installed for the public to understand the process happening in their towns. This process will bring pieces of nature from the surrounding area to within the towns, providing a connection from the urban to the rural for people living in the town and simply visiting.
Topsoil is stripped from areas where earthworks are Wildcarried planting being out along the route, such as campsites. in the urban landscape This topsoil will be full of seeds endemic to the area.
Topsoil from earthworks loaded onto trucks to be transported into urban areas.
Meanwhile a planting bed is prepared in the town.
The soil from the countryside is used to form the top layer of soil for planting beds within the town.
Alongside some other selected sown seeds, the seeds the soil was carrying germinate and produce a native bloom of plants.
6.9 PL ANTING & MANAGEMENT: RURAL Planting in rural areas of the route will be dynamic and endemic to the local area. Dynamic planting areas will be created along the route, with plant species differing upon each area. Localised planting will be implemented with species endemic to the sites or from very close by as to stay true to the projects’ rewilding principles and to aid the success of their establishment. Seeds will be collected from plants that are suited to the site specific conditions and particular micro-climates of each area. Selection will also be influenced by soil types and current landscape character. The seeds will be grown to suitable sizes in nurseries for the project then will be planted in the landscape in the dynamic patches. These dynamic areas are just a beginning to the project’s planting scheme. As these planted areas establish themselves they will spread into new areas as the plants set seed. This will happen as a result of stepping back from the landscape and leaving it to manage itself - it will become self willed land. Self willed land is a landscape governed not by human management but by natural process. The plants will travel (over long periods of time) across the landscape creating a mosaic of vegetation, naturally suited to its situation. These plants will not be managed with the exception of paths, campsites, other landscape facilities and water harvesting swales. This will be monitored and kept accessible and functioning. Further explanation of rural planting can be found in the Wild Coast Route Technical Report.
TREES FOR LIFE PLANTING PRECEDENT Pictures below show Tress for Life planting method, from left to right: Seed collection from native species, in-house nursery for growing trees and shrubs, volunteers planting trees to re-forest lost species, construction of deer fences to prevent over grazing preventing woodland re-establishment, and established trees against open moorland.
DYNAMIC PLANTING SHAPE PRECEDENT The shape below (left) has been developed by landscape ecologist Richard T. T. Forman for as a designed shape to use for planting which will provide high ecological benefits. Elements of this shape are used for planting design for the project, the layout of new planting will be within patches fitting the landscape and taking influence from Formans patch shape.
Drift fence effect catches dispersing species
Drift fence effect catches dispersing species
Core area
Interaction with adjacent areas
Core area Interaction with adjacent areas Dispersal funnel to distant area
Dispersal funnel to distant area Forman, R. T. T. 1995. Land Mosaics: The Ecology of Landscapes and Regions. New York: Cambridge University Press.
7. 0 R O U T E S E C T I O N D OW L AW This site, or section of route, is located in Scotland between the towns of Eyemouth and Cocksburnspath. This is a rural site and is along the Berwickshire Coastal Path. This section is around 4km long and varies between approximately 250m and 750m wide from the cliff edge, the area of land used in this section of the route is particularly wide as it is predominantly a sheep farming area. The is the widest the sites will become along the route. The landscape character of this section is agricultural grassland, with areas of grazed heather and occasional patches of gorse bushes. Two gullies run through the site, one deeper one channelled by Dowlaw Dean, the other a much shallower with a smaller stream, or burn, running through it. Both of these small water courses fall as water falls down the high rocky cliffs. The cliffs here are some of the highest in the country. These large cliffs are used by climbers, with many graded routes the site is popular. The cliffs are shared by the climbers with nesting sea birds. In the past these cliffs supported Fast Castle, a out-looking fort accessed by a narrow bridge on a pillar of stone separate from the land, the ruins of the castle attract historians and walkers passing by. Approximately 7,500 people walk this section of the route per year, plus the numbers who visit here for climbing and to see the castle, making this a popular area along the Wild Coast Route.
Dowlaw Farm
John Muir Country Park (Firth of Forth SSSI)
Fast Castle
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve (Lindisfarne SSSI)
N
Proposed development site
Fast Castle ruins
Climber on sea stack at Fast Castle Head
S
Existing nature reserves 0
10km
Fast Castle Head with ruins
Areas of heather and gorse
Sea cliffs popular with climbers
Areas of grassland
All areas of site grazed by sheep
Dowlaw Dean Dowlaw Farm
Current path route
0
500m
7. 1 D O W L A W : SITE PHOTOS & L ANDSC APE CHARACTER
There are distant views across the mouth of the Firth of Forth estuary, alongside industry of nuclear power, cement works, shipping lanes and wind turbines. Patches of scrub heather and gorse are dotted around the site on large areas of short grazed grassland. Fences and walls divide the areas. A small patch of pines act as a windbreak around the farm buildings. The sea is visible from all of the site.
7. 2 D O W L A W : FEATURES REMOVED In order to create a self-willed landscape and to allow the free movement of wildlife certain features of the landscape will be removed. The main change is the ending of grazing on the site, more information on this is explained in chapter 4.0. Fences, gates and cattle grids will be removed where they no longer serve a purpose. Non-native species such as the lodgepole pine will be replaced with native species that can be used for the same wind breaking or timber producing purposes, this is done to avoid their spread of seed into the site, creating a native wilderness. Drystone walls will be retained as they have a certain heritage to them, many of these walls have been in place for hundreds of years. Gaps will be created in them for access for path routes and wildlife movement. These walls, alongside other man-made features, will provide static references within the dynamic landscape.
7. 3 D O W L A W : FEATURES ENHANCED There are some features on the site that have great quality to them, and these will be retained and enhanced. The views are the breathtaking and visitors could sit and watch the sea here for hours on end. The site does have some interesting existing vegetation in patches, there are boggy areas providing small wetland plants and grasses and the drier areas have some heathland and heather left. The grass and heath and heather will be retained and allowed to develop without management or livestock grazing, enhancing it further. There are a few heritage and history markers around the site indicating forts or ruins, these will all be retained and interpretation boards will add to them. The drystone walls will be retained (although the barbed wire on top will not), the small gaps between the stones will provide refuge and hibernacula for wildlife on site.
7. 4 D O W L A W : WILDLIFE This section of the route is home to a range of birds, mammals and insects. On site visits many song birds and sea birds were seen, and golden eagles where flying overhead. Butterflies and moths are recognised in high numbers with rare species such as the green hairstreak, speckled wood, scallop shell being found here, some of which after not being seen for over 50 years (26). The site has reasonably high numbers of wildlife yet this can be built upon. As explained by John Lawton, creating self-willed land is the best method of increasing biodiversity and enhancing ecology (27). Rewilding initiates look to boost wildlife numbers to figures as great as they were hundreds of years ago. Some animals have not been see here in recent years, the wild cat, pine marten and hedgehog are a few of these. The red squirrel has not either. The sighting records for these species are from the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) database and records should be verified with site surveys, yet this gives a very good indication of wildlife populations. These unseen species could become prevalent again when the site becomes rewilded and a self-willed landscape. As explained in chapter 6.8 this site will have feasibility studies carried out for the reintroduction of animals such as the wild boar or pine marten once the vegetation has become truly established.
A selection of the wildlife which has not been seen on the site in recent years.*
a.
Wild boar, last in area in the 17th century
*Sourced from the National Biodiversity Network (28), except wild boar information from Trees for Life website (29).
b.
Wild cat, last seen 1849
c.
d.
Pine marten, last seen 1862
Hedgehog, last seen 1997
A selection of the wildlife which has been seen on the site within the past 10 years. * 1.
8.
15.
22.
28.
2.
9.
16.
23.
29.
3.
10.
17.
24.
30.
4.
11.
18.
25.
31.
5.
12.
19.
26.
32.
6.
13.
20.
27.
33.
7.
14.
21.
34.
1. Lesser redpoll 2. Grey partridge 3. Yellowhammer 4. Curlew 5. Black bunting bird 6. Black backed gull 7. Spotted flycatcher 8. Shag 9. Yellow wagatil 10. Dunnock 11. Lapwing 12. Puffin 13. Redstart 14. Razorbill 15. Golden eagle 16. Rook 17. Peregrine 18. Ketsrel 19. Fulmar 20. Tawny owl 21. Sparrow hawk 22. Roe deer 23. Fox 24. Hare 25. Badger 26. Rabit 27. Mole 28. Scallop shell 29. Grayling 30. Green hairstreak 31. Speckled wood 32. Dark green fritillary 33. Brown argus 34. Clouded yellow
*Sourced from the National Biodiversity Network.
7. 5 D O W L A W : M A S T E R P L A N 1 Coast path continues towards John Muir Country Park. 2 Diverted coast route is moved from the road into the self-willed landscape & closer to the cliffs & sea edge for immersion in the landscape and sea views. 3 Connection ramp between low coast route and high loop path, connecting the loop. Viewing point and rest stop on ramp providing views over the dynamic landscape & out towards the Firth of Forth. Interpretation board positioned here. 4 Car & bicycle parking, availability includes for overnight campervans and day visitors. Disabled access paths are provided from this location into the site. Interpretation boards and site maps positioned here. 5 Entrance to loop path system. Path begins by leading visitors through a path of new planting: this will become a wild concealed entrance to the site, providing immediate enticement and excitement to enter the Wild Coast Route area. 6 Loop path, top track, designed to be wheelchair accessible, linking to Fast Castle Head, the rest of the site and the coast path.
8
7 Current heathland (all purple red texture). This area will be allowed to develop without human management or livestock grazing. This will be self willed land. 8 Sunset Campsite. This campsite is orientated for views of summer sunsets over the sea, the Firth of Forth & the Isle of May
*
*
9 Water catchment and pond for the Sunset Campsite.
*
9 10
12 7
1
11
*
2
6 3
* 5 4
N
W
0
E
500m S
10 Dynamic planting area. Dark green areas shown are proposed planting areas, with dispersed areas of existing vegetation. These will spread & develop over time forming new self formed patches 11 Dowlaw Road. 12 Existing car park & site access. Interpretation boards and site maps positioned here.
14
13 Sunrise Campsite. Orientated facing the sunrise & views down the proposed ‘wild’ coastline. This campsite has its own water catchment & facilities. Sunrise Campsite is wheelchair accessible. 15
16
14 Fast Castle Head.
*
15 Existing path to Fast Castle Head, used by climbers & visitors with historical interests.
13
2
*
*
16 Fast Castle Head viewing platform providing views out to sea, along the Wild Coast Route & to the castle ruins & climbers on the cliffs. Interpretation boards and site maps positioned here.
17
*
18
17 1 in 20 gradient ramp to Fast Castle Head viewing platform & Sunrise Campsite. 18 Current grassland (all light green texture). This area will be allowed to develop without human management or livestock grazing. This will be self willed land. 19 Dowlaw Dean.
19
*
20 Path crossing Dowlaw Dean following contours upstream to allow for 1 in 20 slopes with little disturbing construction needed. Interpretation boards and site maps positioned here. 22
21 Dynamic planting makes use of the Dean’s deep valley to continue wilderness inland.
23 20
22 Accessible wildlife watching hide & shelter amongst dynamic planting, providing opportunity to not only have a vantage point of the native animals & birds but also to have a static point of reference within the dynamic landscape.
18
23 Rocky sea cliffs. 24 Path continues south towards Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve.
24
21
*
Waymarking posts
7. 6 D O W L A W : AC C E S S & PA R K I N G The site is all proposed open access, but a network of paths are created and connected to existing routes to provide some guidance.
Secondary paths
• The Wild Coast Route path has been moved from the road to the lower edge of the site. • A looped path system with wheelchair access has been provided, linking to the Sunrise campsite and wildlife hide. • Some existing paths connect to Fast Castle Head and the existing car park at Dowlaw Farm. • A new car park is proposed further from the castle to create a longer journey to the headland travelling through the self-willed landscape for those that wish to do so.
Wild Coast Route path
Secondary paths with wheelchair access
P
Proposed car park
E
Existing car park Viewing platforms Existing road Ford stream crossing Piped swale crossing
E Wild Coast Route continues, diverted from road End of road, at Dowlaw Farm with existing car park
P
N 0
Dowlaw Road, leading to A1107 & A1
Proposed cycle, campervan & car parking
500m W
E
S
Existing access to Fast Castle Head
Existing access to Fast Castle Head
Wildlife watching hide & shelter accessed by ramp
Wild Coast Route continues, diverted from road
7. 7 D O W L A W : PLANTING & SELF-WILLED LAND The planting and existing vegetation within this section and throughout the Wild Coast Route is planted is to be self-willed (as described in chapter 1.2 & Wild Coast Route Technical Report). Small areas are planted and allowed to spread seed and naturally colonise the site, this is done rather than planting the whole site for a number of reasons: to let the plants dictate the natural order, seeds will germinate where is right for the plant, this also allow for a constantly changing landscape to develop, and it will also keep installation costs down. The following images show how the landscape may develop over time.
N 0
500m W
E
S
7. 8 D O W L A W : PLANTING & SELF-WILLED LAND
PLANTING AT ESTABLISHMENT
+5 YEARS
The patches of planted scrub and woodland will take around 5-10 years to reach a established state. Meanwhile areas of heather, heath and grassland will be developing on their own accord without man’s influence.
Around 5 years after establishment the patches will have lost their edges and new clusters of scrub will be colonising the site.
+10 YEARS
+15 YEARS
Patches will be changing shape as some areas are doing better that others and they spread further. The existing heather, heath and grassland will be richer and thicker.
Patches will have developed to new shapes, spreading their seeds across the site. Mans touch on the shape of the planted areas will be unnoticeable and the area will feel wild. At this point wildlife numbers will have increased greatly with the new habitats created. The shrubs, trees and richer grassland, heath and heather areas will be supporting insects and providing food for birds, lizards amphibians and mammals, in turn supporting other larger species. At this point (as discussed in chapter 6.8) influential lost species such as the pine marten could be considered for reintroduction if they have not yet re-colonised the area naturally.
7. 9 D O W L A W : VIEWING PL ATF ORM IN TIME The viewing platforms will make people stop on their journey and take in the views, providing space for contemplation and peacefulness. These static points in the dynamic landscape will provide reference points for returning visitors to witness the changes in this self-willed area. This viewing point is located half way up the returning ramp of the loop path, and close to the main Wild Coast Route where way markers will indicate its location. The following images show an impression of how the landscape may evolve around these viewing platforms over time.
0
500m
VIEWING PLATFORM AT INSTALLATION The site is in its current state, paths and earthworks have been constructed and visitors are using the area. Planting of trees and shrubs is being carried out here in the left side of the image. A golden eagle flies overhead. The viewing platform is constructed with low drystone walls, with a gravel area continued from the path. A limestone bench from the nearby quarry will provide long lasting seating.
Workers planting trees & shrubs
Simple yet robust viewing platform entices visitors to contemplate the landscape
7. 9 D O W L A W : VIEWING PL ATF ORM IN TIME +5 YEARS The planted trees are taking form, despite the north sea winds. Grasses and heathers are becoming thicker and more varied with species growing through without the suppression of grazing. Wildlife numbers are quickly building with the rising vegetation.
Views take in the immediate landscape (& wildlife) & the Firth of Forth in the distance
+15 YEARS Trees and shrubs have reached significant establishment and have began to set new seeds in the landscape. The area has become rich in species of plants and wildlife. Visitors feel immersed in the landscape and can take time here to contemplate the wild space.
A new generation of saplings beginning to emerge
7. 1 0 D O W L A W : S H E LT E R & W I L D L I F E H I D E This shelter will provide space to hide from any unexpected weather (as there will be in this Scottish section of the route!). This structure is placed in the landscape for viewing birds and other wildlife. Set a little way from the Wild Coast Route, a ramp will wind up the hill through thick scrub and trees leading to this slightly underground hide: by approaching from below and with views to the path blocked by vegetation the animals will less likely be spooked by peoples approach. On the other side of the hide a clearing in the vegetation will provide a space to see the creatures of the landscape. This clearing will evolve over time as the vegetation develops.
View from inside wildlife hide
D
0
500m
DD
1 in 20 ramp allows wheelchair users to access the hide
D
Dense vegetation will screen people walking up the slope to the hide. This will also provide cover for wildlife
Sunken shelter to prevent sight and sound of people arriving to the wildlife
DD
7. 11 D O W L A W : I M M E R S I O N I N N A T U R E
Campsites along the route allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature by sleeping the wilderness at stops along the entire journey. The Dowlaw Farm section of Wild Coast Route has two campsites, the sunset and the sunrise, positioned for views east and west. Each of these campsites has room for approximately 40 campers each. Currently this section carries 40 people per day so these campsite allow room for all and more. The sunrise campsite will be wheelchair accessible. These images show impressions of the sunset campsite (confusingly shown in sunrise). This campsite is dense with scrub planting and is constructed on multiple levels in order to provide seclusion and privacy. By separating the campsite in this way visitors can feel truly within nature.
In section, the planting has developed and matured with larger trees and shrubs. As with all areas of the route the vegetation in the campsites will act dynamically. Section location shown in Wild Coast Route Technical report
0
500m
Sunset campsite at daybreak in midsummer. Campers are woken by the early morning sun and the birds in the shrubs and trees around them. The campfire is still warm enough to make breakfast on.
What would the world be, once bereft, Of wet and of wilderness? Let them be left, O let them be left, wilderness and wet; Long live the weeds and the wilderness yet. Extrat from Inversnaid Gerard Manley Hopkins
8.0 REFERENCES
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Travis Beck (2013). Principles of Ecological Landscape Design. Washington: Island Press. 5. John Lawton (2010). Making Space for Nature: a review of Englands Wildlife Sites and Ecological Network. Dr Ian Convery, Tom Dutson. (2008). Rural Communities and Landscape Change: A Case Study of Wild Ennerdale. Journal of Rural and Community Development. 3 (121), 104–117. Wild Ennerdale Stewardship Plan, (2006). Dave Perrett. (2013). Ennerdale: the wildest corner of Cumbria. Available: http://www.countryfile.com/countryside/ennerdale-wildest-corner-cumbria. Last accessed 17th May 2015. Dr Ian Convery, Tom Dutson. (2008). Rural Communities and Landscape Change: A Case Study of Wild Ennerdale. Journal of Rural and Community Development. 3 (121), 104–117. Alan Watson Featherstone. (2014). Mission Statement. Available: http://treesforlife.org.uk/about/mission-statement/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. George Monbiot. (2013). Greening the Desert. In: Feral. London: Penguin Books. 62-89. John Hess. (2013). Struggling farmers urge PM to retain EU subsidies. Available: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-21713060. Last accessed 17th May 2015. George Monbiot. (2013). Why Britain’s barren uplands have farming subsidies to blame. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/environment/georgemonbiot/2013/may/22/britain-uplands-farming-subsidies. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 11. Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Forestry Commission. (2015). Woodland capital grants 2015: choose options. Available: https://www.gov.uk/woodland-capital-grants-2015-choose-options. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 12. The Scottish Government. (2014). Woodland Creation. Available: https://www.ruralpayments.org/publicsite/futures/topics/all-schemes/forestry-grant-scheme/woodland-creation/#41142. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 13. Monbiot, George, and Alan Watson Featherstone. ‘Rewilding Britain’. (2015). Lecture. 14. George Monbiot. (2013). The Hushings. In: Feral. London: Penguin Books. 167-185. 15. Scottish Natural Heritage. (2013). Pine martens. Available: http://www.snh.gov.uk/about-scotlands-nature/species/mammals/land-mammals/pine-martens/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 16. Emma Sheehy, Colin Lawton. (2014). Population crash in an invasive species following the recovery of a native predator: the case of the American grey squirrel and the European pine marten in Ireland. Biodiversity and Conservation. 23 (3), 753-774. 17. Emma Sheehy, Colin Lawton. (2014). Population crash in an invasive species following the recovery of a native predator: the case of the American grey squirrel and the European pine marten in Ireland. Biodiversity and Conservation. 23 (3), 753-774. 18. Emma Sheehy, Colin Lawton. (2014). Population crash in an invasive species following the recovery of a native predator: the case of the American grey squirrel and the European pine marten in Ireland. Biodiversity and Conservation. 23 (3), 753-774. 19. Lizzie Croose, The Vincent Wildlife Trust. elizabethcroose@vwt.org.uk. Lizzie Croose. 16 April 2015. 20. The Vincent Wildlife Trust. (-). Pine Martens. Available: Pine Marten. Last accessed 16 April 2015. 21. Alan Watson Featherstone. (2014). Wild boar. Available: http://treesforlife.org.uk/work/wild-boar/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 22. Alan Watson Featherstone. (2014). Wild boar. Available: http://treesforlife.org.uk/work/wild-boar/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 23. The Scottish Government. (2002). Scotland’s Native Trees and Shrubs - a designer’s guide to their selection, procurement and use in road landscape. Available: http://www.gov.scot/Publications/2002/06/14891/5585. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 24. BBC. (2009). Six wild boar to aid the regeneration of ancient forest. Available: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/8370348.stm. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 25. Alan Watson Featherstone. (2014). Wild boar. Available: http://treesforlife.org.uk/work/wild-boar/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 26. Barry Prater. (2014). Butterfly Conservation Scotland. Borders Newsletter, issue 13. 27. John Lawton (2010). Making Space for Nature: a review of Englands Wildlife Sites and Ecological Network. 28. National Biodiversity Network. (2013). NBN Site Report. Available: https://data.nbn.org.uk/Reports/Sites/NT87/. Last accessed 17th May 2015. 29. Alan Watson Featherstone. (2014). Wild boar. Available: http://treesforlife.org.uk/work/wild-boar/. Last accessed 17th May 2015.