Understanding Chalk Grassland and Scrub at The Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve

A Landscape of Global Importance

The iconic Seven Sisters cliffs in East Sussex have recently been formally declared England’s newest National Nature Reserve (NNR). Covering 1,500 hectares, the area includes chalk grasslands, heathland, and floodplain meadows - habitats that support rare and specialist species including chalkhill blue butterflies, bee orchids, and skylarks.

TEP’s Chalk Scrub Study

In 2024, TEP was commissioned by Natural England to carry out a detailed chalk scrub study across the NNR. Our team combined a literature review of previous research with field mapping of scrub habitats to understand the value of different areas for chalk grassland specialists.

This approach provided insight into:

• The extent and condition of scrub habitats;
• Their role in supporting key species;
• How future management could maintain and enhance ecological value.
  

Informing Conservation and Restoration

Our findings provided an evidence base to inform site management and habitat restoration opportunities, ensuring interventions such as targeted scrub control and biodiversity enhancement could be delivered without impacting the NNR’s historic and ecological character. This enabled Natural England to take forward measures that protect and restore one of England’s most treasured landscapes.

Part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves

The Seven Sisters NNR forms part of the King’s Series, a programme aiming to create or extend 25 National Nature Reserves by 2028. This designation ensures the area will continue to be protected and restored, providing habitat for wildlife while offering space for people to enjoy nature.