THE West Pennine Moors has become a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) — the largest site to obtain the status since 2004.

The 76-square kilometre stretch of land between Chorley, Blackburn, Bolton and Haslingden was awarded the SSSI status by Natural England earlier this month.

It means that the beauty spot is now a protected area and has been recognised as a site that is important to the UK's natural heritage.

Natural England’s chief executive James Cross said: "This is a significant moment for the protection of wildlife across a wild and beautiful expanse of north-west England.

"Our upland landscapes provide vital wildlife habitats and clean water, reduce flood risk and bring enjoyment and a sense of well-being to millions of people.

"Conservation is not about holding things back, but about moving them forward. The outcome Natural England wishes to achieve with this designation is sustainably conserving a wonderful upland landscape and safeguarding the services it offers for the benefit of both people and the environment."

The report by Natural England described the moors as providing a 'dramatic backdrop' to the surrounding towns and the wild, open spaces have have been 'enjoyed by generations of locals and visitors alike'.

The hills provide clean drinking water for thousands of households and their ability to store water plays a role in reducing flood risk in urban areas downstream.

Natural England will work with owners and land managers to continue to protect and enhance the wildlife importance of the area, while maximising the other benefits from the moors.

This includes management of blanket bogs through grazing by cattle or sheep, and maintaining water levels at or around the surface of the peat to make sure the habitat is at its healthiest.

Bogs in good condition help with water storage in the upper catchments to reduce flood risk downstream, creating long-term carbon storage, as well as providing habitat for wildlife.

Mike Burke, Natural England’s area manager for Cheshire to Lancashire said: "The West Pennine Moors are truly special and wholly warrant this SSSI status. It confers special legal protection and recognises the national scientific importance of its mosaic of upland habitats and populations of breeding birds.

"We will continue to work with all farmers, landowners and conservation groups across the area over the coming weeks and months to explain the importance of this designation and agree how we can work together to protect the area now and in the future."

Landowners, occupiers and interested parties now have four months in which to make representations or objections to Natural England.