Work to remove invasive species along Sefton’s coastline has begun

Work has begun to remove an invasive plant on Sefton’s natural coastline. Natural England in partnership with Green Sefton are undertaking the work along the Sefton coast to remove dense areas of Japanese Rose (Rosa rugosa).

Rosa rugosa is an invasive non-native species that if left untreated can take over sand dunes, and threaten specialist species, like the Natterjack Toad, the Sand Lizard and the Northern Dune Tiger Beetle, by decreasing the amount of suitable habitat for them to live in.  

Sand Lizards need bare sand for basking and egg-laying and will benefit greatly from the removal of these invasive non-native species.

The removal work, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, will result in 6 hectares removed using heavy machinery and buried deep enough at the same location to prevent the plants from regrowing. More difficult-to-reach areas of growth will be treated.

Gordon White, Principal Coastal & Countryside Officer at Green Sefton, said: “The Sefton Coast is a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for its incredible dune habitats and species.

“However, if non-native invasive species like Rosa rugosa are left unchecked, vast areas of our dune system and native plants and animals are at risk from being lost altogether.

“The plant now covers over 6 hectares of Sefton Coast Dunes – more than 12 football fields!

"Getting rid of this particular species is going to improve what should be pristine first-class sand dune habitat that is protected at the highest level for nature conservation."

The work is now underway at Birkdale Sandhills Local Nature Reserve and will continue through December 2022 and into January 2023.

To capture the start of the work, the BBC North West film crew where on site on Tuesday filming for a piece for the BBC NW Tonight programme. People can watch over at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001g6d0/north-west-tonight-evening-news-13122022

Residents and visitors are advised to follow the diversions in place, give contractors space and keep dogs under close control.