In Section 3.1, we set out a hierarchy of parks based on recognised standards for the provision of natural green space at a neighbourhood, district and metropolitan level. There are three main opportunities for biodiversity in the parks hierarchy:

• Existing parks – changing management plans to enhance ecological function
• Designed ecology parks – provision of new ecologically functional greenspaces
• Local Nature Reserves – heritage, semi-natural and brownfield reserves as outdoor classrooms

As well as providing recreational open space, parks can also provide significant areas of natural green space, thereby maximising the extent of habitat available.

Existing Parks
Traditionally the design and management of British parks has favoured an ornamental and manicured appearance. This limits the potential of existing parks as ecologically functional greenspaces. In order to enhance the opportunities for biodiversity, park management plans can be revised with the aim of encouraging more species-rich and structurally diverse vegetation. Common examples include reduced mowing to encourage wildflowers and the establishment of field and shrub layers under trees. This approach is low input but can yield cost benefits, as demonstrated by Iris Brickfields in Newcastle.

Designed Ecology Parks
In large masterplans there are likely to be opportunities to create new parks, including designed ecology parks. As we discussed in Section 2.3, the distinct flora of an area can be used as a pattern book to inform the design of ecologically functional park landscapes. Dutch Heem Parks, native herbaceous gardens, provide an example of this approach. Their design draws upon an understanding of native plant communities, and their response to landscape conditions. Greenwich Millennium Village’s ecology park demonstrates an application of this approach, and the park has helped to attract people to live in the area.

Local Nature Reserves
There is an increasing recognition of the educational value of creating Local Nature Reserves (LNRs). LNRs are ‘places with wildlife or geological features that are of special interest locally, which give people special opportunities to study and learn about nature’. LNRs are a statutory designation made by Local Authorities and they can include natural habitats, enhanced man-made greenspaces, designed ecology parks and regenerated brownfield sites.

Benwell Nature Park in Newcastle is a good example of the potential value of LNRs to local communities (case study 2, Section 1.3). The recent declaration of Kersal LNR in Salford has the potential to deliver similar benefits in the neighbouring Housing Market Renewal area.