Biodiversity

 Action

 Plan

Barnsley Biodiversity Action Plan. Post-15 BAP Updated to 2024 woodland spring flowers

Barnsley Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) describes the diversity of habitats and wildlife species found in Barnsley. It sets out those that are a priority for conservation and how this can be achieved.

We welcome comments on this revised BAP via barnsleybiodiversitytrust@gmail.com

Introduction. The importance of biodiversity and the Biodiversity Action Plan, and the influences on it.

Landscapes. The different Barnsley landscape characters, their geology, and the impact of man.

Habitats. Habitats in Barnsley that require protection, restoration and positive conservation management.

Species. Wildlife species in Barnsley that require protection and action to halt decline and increase their numbers.

Planning and Development. Guidance on the planning process and implications for development relating to biodiversity.

Sites in Barnsley designated nationally or locally for their distinctive and threatened habitats and species.

Records.  Barnsley Biological Records Centre - how to send in records of wildlife and how to ask for records.

[NB large pdf files]

Barnsley’s first Biodiversity Action Plan was published in 2002; a revised second BAP was adopted by Barnsley Council in 2010.

Cover of first BAP published by Barnsley council in 2002 Cover of second BAP adopted by Barnsley council in 2010

It is intended that this online Biodiversity Action Plan is kept up to date to reflect changes in government policies, the status of habitats and species, and the situation on the ground in Barnsley.


The Barnsley Biodiversity Action Plan was first produced in this more comprehensive format in 2015 and has been updated since then. It was referenced in the Barnsley Local Plan (2019) and in the Biodiversity Supplementary Action Policy (2019 & 2024). Elements from the South Yorkshire Nature Recovery Strategy will follow in due course.


In citing this website please use this format for the individual page: barnsleybiodiversity.org.uk/biodiversityplan.html, accessed dd month year.

Barnsley Biodiversity Action Plan has been revised to bring it up-to-date and include additional information. It has been produced online and published here. It is updated when appropriate.

The differences with the previous BAP are summarised here