You may remember some time ago – May, in fact – we contacted Natural England to enquire about the potential eligibility of Havannah Nature Reserve as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). We have now received a response to confirm that, having considered the information provided and in the context of published guidance and other material regarding SSSI notification, the site does not merit notification. It is still unclear if Natural England is aware of the ecological value of the reserve, which is described as having one of the most diverse ranges of habitats, plants and animals in the whole of the North East, in a leaflet produced recently by Newcastle City Council. We are seeking clarification as to precisely what information was used to inform Natural England’s decision. We are still awaiting an update from Newcastle Great Park Consortium on the outcome of the second round of public consultation for the proposed Cell A development, which could see 1,200 houses within metres of the reserve.