Michael Gove MP met with Sarah Jane Chimbwandira, Chief Executive Officer at Surrey Wildlife Trust, at Brentmoor Heath to discuss the work carried out by the Trust to preserve and enhance the lowland heath and nature in Surrey Heath.
Lowland heath is a rare habitat within the UK, covering less than 1% of the country's total land area. This type of habitat is one of the most biodiverse, as it hosts many species that are rare or endangered elsewhere, providing a refuge for ground-nesting birds such as the nightjar, the woodland, and the Dartford warbler. It also supports many reptiles such as adders, grass snakes, common and sand lizards, and slow worms. Additionally, lowland heath is a haven for insects, spiders, bees, wasps and butterflies.
Here in Surrey Heath, we have much of the remaining lowland heaths in the UK, with Chobham Common being one of the largest areas of lowland heaths in the country and the largest National Nature Reserve in South East England.
Commenting, Michael said:
"A pleasure and a privilege to have such beautiful scenery here in Surrey Heath, and it was wonderful to meet Surrey Wildlife Trust today to discuss how they plan to preserve it."
Pictured, Michael with Sarah Jane and a Surrey Wildlife Trust ranger at Brentmoor Heath, West End
