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Natural England Fails to Designate New Protected Sites

4/21/2026

30 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Natural England has not designated any new Sites of Special Scientific Interest since 2023, per a Wild Justice report.
The report notes 14 potential Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) threatened by nearby developments, 12 approved.
Bob Elliot, Wild Justice's CEO, criticized Natural England for failing to protect habitats.
England's SSSIs cover 7.1% of land, the lowest share in the European Union, despite a 2030 target to protect 30%.

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Story summary

Natural England has not designated any new Sites of Special Scientific Interest since 2023, per a Wild Justice report.
The report notes 14 potential Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) threatened by nearby developments, 12 approved.
Bob Elliot, Wild Justice's CEO, criticized Natural England for failing to protect habitats.
England's SSSIs cover 7.1% of land, the lowest share in the European Union, despite a 2030 target to protect 30%.