Brownfield Habitats

What Exactly is a Brownfield Site?

Technically known as "open mosaic habitat," brownfield sites are generally defined as derelict industrial land or vacant demolition sites. These areas were developed in the past and subsequently abandoned. In a surveying context, they are heavily influenced by human activity, sitting on the spectrum between semi-natural and artificial environments.

Why They Matter: Nature’s Blank Canvas

Despite their history, the best brownfield sites can be as species-rich as ancient woodland. They offer a unique environment for wildlife:

• Early Successional Refuge: They host rare species that struggle to survive in the wider urban landscape.

• Undisturbed Growth: Unlike arable land, brownfields provide bare substrate that remains undisturbed, allowing primary succession to occur.

• Diverse Micro-habitats: From pools and flower-rich grasslands to scrub and secondary woodland, these sites are uniquely urban.

• Nectar and Heat: Flowering plants (including non-natives) provide nectar, while rubble and concrete offer warm basking spots for invertebrates.

The Sidmouth Context

In the Sidmouth area, you won't find traditional derelict factories. Instead, our "brownfields" are:

• Redundant agricultural land or places where human activity has radically changed the natural condition.

• Everyday spaces where people work, rest, and play, such as town centre shops, offices, parks, gardens, and playing fields.

Conservation and Challenges

Historically, the ecological value of these sites was overlooked. Today, "open mosaic habitat" is recognised as a Priority Habitat in the UK. However, they face constant threats from planning procedures and a general presumption in favour of development. Conservation now focuses on awareness, surveying, and integrating wildlife interests into new building proposals.