Two Bays Project Interreg II East Sussex and France

The purpose of the project was to compare the wildlife and habitats of the TWO BAYS (Rye Bay East Sussex and Baie de Somme, northern France) with a view to improving management techniques for the rare species and habitats.

The work included creating a joint database. Species records have been entered onto a biological database. This also involved the collection of new data and the exchange of surveyors and specialists. The project also provided an opportunity to undertake joint studies of wildlife management techniques with an exchange of experience between environmental workers. Habitat management advice was also given to farmers and landowners within the project areas.

Another important aspect to the project was to promote the understanding of the environmental importance of the area to decision makers, farmers, landowners and the general public. This took place through leaflets, displays, newsletters, guided walks, interpretation boards, workshops and a conference. Many of the publications were bilingual, and both areas displayed information about the project and it’s partner across the channel. The Communication and Interpretation Plan identifies the core and subsidiary messages presented to the public.

Comment: The project ended in 2001 but it is hoped to continue to develop the work. A web site is maintained by one of the project leaders @ http://home.clara.net/yates/2bays.html and there is a web site for the Bay de Somme @ http://www.baiedesomme.org/, which lies within the coastal cell covering the Seine to the Somme.