We aim to lead by example and to showcase best practice for green network development. LFGNP and partner organisations are currently leading on a number of innovative projects across Lothians and Fife.

Lothians and Fife - Integrated Habitat Network (IHN) Mapping

LFGNP is working with the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Support group to develop uniform habitat network mapping of the Lothians and Fife Green Network area. The work is being undertaken by the Forest Research Agency on behalf of the wider partnership.

The process of developing habitat network mapping has evolved rapidly in recent years. A Forest Habitat Network (FHN) for Edinburgh and the Lothians was produced in 2006 by Forest Research using the BEETLE model (Biological and Environmental Evaluation Tools for Landscape Ecology). Habitat networks are defined by the ability of species to move through the landscape from one habitat patch to another. Different species have different dispersal abilities and habitat requirements.
Since the development of the Edinburgh and Lothians FHN the methodology has developed to include integrated habitat networks covering a range of habitats including woodlands, wetlands, coastal, species rich grasslands and heathlands.
It is an aim of the CSGN (goal 6) to plan and deliver an integrated habitat network, with wildlife corridors joining up key sites and habitats, ensuring that every community has access to places where people can experience nature and wildlife. To realise this vision requires that all mapping and datasets across the Lothians and Fife are brought up to consistent standard.Fig.1 (below) shows where IHN models have recently been developed across the CSGN area and where further work has been required.
Within the LFGNP area, Fife has recently completed an IHN and the mapping in Edinburgh and the Lothians is being upgraded to IHN status. This is being accompanied by new Phase 1 habitat surveys of the Lothians area. The work is being funded by LFGNP partners including the local authorities.

Fig.1 – Habitat network mapping across the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN)

A number of key landscape-scale policy drivers are encouraging the adoption of IHN. These include:

1. Planning strategies: Including SESPlan and Local Development Plans
2. Biodiversity conservation strategies: BAP and LBAP
3. Water Framework directive: River Basin Management Plans 
4. Climate change: Resilient landscapes

The mapping work will be used to inform landuse discision making and can identify areas that are ecologically connected and then be used to target conservation effort in relation to policy and management drivers.
In terms of practical outputs from IHN, there is great potential to use the model as a tool for development masterplanning. This is already being undertaken on a practical basis in the Glasgow and the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green (GCVGN) Network area in locations such as East Kilbride.
The outputs of the mapping data can show where development will further fragment habitats and where careful attention must be paid in design. Similarly, well planned green infrastructure associated with development can provide increased functional connectivity of habitats and can also provide import social benefits for local residents including active travel, health and wellbeing.

The following maps from Forest Research show IHN mapping outputs for areas of Fife for woodlands, grasslands and wetland habitats: (to follow)

 

For further information about this project please contact Ian Whitehead at Lothians and Fife Green Network Partnership ian@lfgnp.org.uk

 

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