Coastal Habitat Restoration - Towards Good Practice 
 
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Hard rock overgrown vegetated sea cliffs (State 2)

In this state the values associated with nature conservation are much reduced. The extent depends on the growth and density of the scrub. At some sites (as depicted in the picture in the description of State 2) it can become virtually impenetrable. Although the nature conservation interest may be severely compromised other interests survive, namely:

  1. Nature conservation
  • Provides shelter for migrating birds;
  1. Landscape and cultural
  • High cliffs of recognised landscape value;
  • Cliff-top walks, though note some paths can become difficult of access and tall vegetation impedes views;
  1. Coastal defence and economic
  • Hard rocks are resilient to erosion;
  • Sites for housing 'with a sea view';
  • Source of aggregate.
 
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© English Nature, Environment Agency, Defra, LIFE and NERC 2003