Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation (SINCs)

What is a SINC?

Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) are designations applied to the most important non-statutory nature conservation sites in the West Midlands. The system has the support of all seven Metropolitan Borough Councils, English Nature, The Black Country Geological Society and the two Wildlife Trusts which operate in the West Midlands.

What protection are they offered?

While the sites identified do not receive statutory protection they are offered protection though the unitary development plans (UDP) of the Metropolitan Borough Councils. Planning Policy Guidance Note 9: Nature Conservation (PPG 9) published in October 1994 formally recognizes the role that the SINC system can have in the protection of locally important nature conservation sites and stresses the need for local authorities to apply local designations only "to sites with a substantive nature conservation value". With this in mind, the SINC designation applies to only those sites with a demonstrable nature conservation interest..

Who is responsible for identifying these sites?

While the SINC system has always been a partnership, English Nature has, in the past, taken the lead in the identification of SINCs and the production of schedules for each local authority, on the basis of defined criteria for site selection.

How will they affect me in my planning application?

It is the Councils practice to consult English Nature and the Urban Wildlife Trust on any planning application proposing development which is likely to affect a SINC.

How many of these sites are there?

The Council has 30 Sites of Important Nature Conservation within its boundaries, listed below. Click on the area to get more information.