Epsom green space gains wildlife status

A site in Surrey has been recognised as an important habitat due to the presence of old oak trees and a rare species of moth.

Manor Open Space in Epsom has been named a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) because of its "high biodiversity value", the council said.

The Surrey Local Sites Partnership granted the status due to "several significant features", including the Knapweed Case‑bearer moth, which had not been seen in Surrey for about 100 years until 2024.

The site is considered a wildlife corridor between Epsom Common and Horton Country Park, helping animals move between the two nature reserves.

Councillor Liz Frost said the Epsom and Ewell Borough Council was "proud" of the recognition which plays "important role in supporting resilient ecosystems across the borough".

Designated SNCI sites do not have statutory legal protection but are recognised within planning systems as valuable habitats that must be considered in development decisions.

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