Demonstration sites

Please note, the demonstration site scheme will be ending on 31 March 2012.

HE has established a scheme to promote habitat enhancement and encourage practical environmental improvements. The Demonstration Site scheme provides support to new projects.

What type of projects are we looking for for the Demonstration Site Scheme? 

Demonstration sites are an important way of exemplifying current best management practices. Habitat Enhancement provides support to projects which may include the protection, restoration and improvement of existing habitats, or the creation of new habitats.  Applications are welcome throughout the year and are regularly assessed by Regional HE staff.

We are keeping our interest in aquatic habitats and wildlife, and would be particulary keen to receive applications that emphasise catchment scale improvements and coastal habitat improvements.  We are also interested in projects that involve the restoration of brownfield sites (including quarries, landfills, open-cast coal sites, and other land affected by contamination), which has given substantial new wildlife habitat, whilst addressing any environmental risks.  

Applying for the Scheme

Any application for support through the Demonstration Site Scheme must fulfil the entry requirements and assessment criteria set out below.

Entry requirements: the project must:

  1. not result in the loss of habitats or species considered of local or national value;

  2. safeguard or enhance water quality and quantity;

  3. conform to Best Practice Guidance promoted by SEPA, and comply with existing SEPA policies;

  4. not involve the translocation of habitat or species unless this can be demonstrated to be sustainable. NB Translocations must also comply with any relevant legislation.

Assessment Criteria: the project should:

  1. demonstrate a net benefit to the environment by enhancing existing habitats or creating new habitats;

  2. be available to act as an HE demonstration site;

  3. include UK Biodiversity Action Plan / Local Biodiversity Action Plan actions, where appropriate, or support the Scottish Species Action Framework and Scottish Biodiversity Strategy;

  4. demonstrate sustainability;

  5. include pre and post project surveys;

  6. include proposals for future long-term maintenance / management of the site;

  7. provide evidence of the involvement of the local community, educational initiatives and / or opportunities for public access (e.g. hides, footpaths etc.);

  8. show transferability of skills, knowledge, processes and guidelines.

Application Forms

Although the forms are brief, enclosing as much information as possible will allow us to assess your application more quickly. Information you may like to enclose could include maps, details of vegetation surveys and copies of photographs. Please send your completed application to the address below.