What is an SSSI?

It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

SSSI's have legal protection against any activity or development that might cause damage to the site. See HERE for details.

 

Why SSSI Status for Tunstall Hills?

 

Basically because of its geological and wildlife importance: the Magnesian Limestone and the reef fossils, some of which are of international significance, whilst the MAG limestone supports areas of rare Magnesian Limestone Grassland of which there is very little in England, and about 75% is to be found in the North East.

For more details visit the Natural England website HERE

View a map of the SSSI HERE