Isle of Wight
Local Geodiversity Action Plan (LGAP)

and

Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGs)

IW LGAP

Why produce an LGAP?

LGAPs are being developed to provide a framework for the delivery of geoconservation. LGAPs are, in part, developed from the model of Biodiversity Action Plans and have adopted the process of setting clear aims and objectives, with measurable targets, for local geoconservation.

This approach can provide:

• a structured approach to local geoconservation
• a framework for grant applications
• wider awareness of geological sites and geoconservation
• increased protection for existing and newly identified sites.

                                                                  (from the Natural England website).

LGAPs are being produced by local authorities, geological trusts and companies throughout England.

The Isle of Wight LGAP

The primary function of the Isle of Wight Local Geodiversity Action Plan (IW LGAP) is to formulate a strategy to promote the Isle of Wight through the conservation and sustainable development of its Earth Heritage.

The initial research work, and early meetings with partners, took place during 2004. A paper LGAP was produced in draft form in early 2005. The project was led by staff at Dinosaur Isle, with the draft document, and actions, agreed with a number of partners who joined the IWLGAP Partnership.

Initial funding for the project came from the I.W. Council and English Nature (now Natural England).

The work is being co-ordinated by Dinosaur Isle under its remit "to be a national centre for excellence in the conservation, display and interpretation of the Island's dinosaurs and diverse geological heritage".

Consultation 2009

During August 2009 a second, updated and substantially extended, draft version was produced and circulated to the original partners and other groups for review.  The new document was produced by Dinosaur Isle with substantial input from the Isle of Wight Centre for the Coastal Environment (both are IW Council departments). The academic citation for the document reflects this joint authorship.

Following this further consultation with our partners a number of comments have been received and incorporated in the new draft.  The aim is to finalise this version towards the end of January 2010 and to make the document available on-line (from this webpage). 

The IWLGAP is a working document.  It will be reviewed and re-issued at appropriate intervals.  To reduce the amount of paper produced with a traditional document the primary source will be online.

RIGs

Important local geological sites were identified by the former Museum of Isle of Wight Geology (now replaced by Dinosaur Isle Museum).  Statements were produced for a limited number of sites that fell outside of the protection offered by the identification of many classic geological and palaeontological areas on the Island otherwise listed as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).  Initially of limited distribution, these will now be reproduced and made available on-line during 2010. The original documents are also in the process of being reviewed and updated.  When new versions are ready they will be made available for download from this webpage. 

An action within the LGAP is to assess potential additional sites; any new RIGS statement will be added to this website.

"Sharing good practice - working today for nature tomorrow".