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Kilvey Hill is recognized as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), hosting diverse habitats and species. Key ecological aspects include:Flora and Fauna: The hill supports a variety of plant species, including notable ones such as eared willow (Salix aurita), royal fern (Osmunda regalis), and southern marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza praetermissa). These species are largely associated with habitats that are at risk from development activities.
Invertebrates: A recent survey recorded 225 invertebrate species on Kilvey Hill, including 18 species of conservation importance and 9 designated as nationally scarce. Notably, a millipede species of local and national interest was identified, underscoring the hill's ecological value.
Reptiles: The hill is home to common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) and slow worms (Anguis fragilis), with surveys indicating a "good" population of common lizards and a "low" population of slow worms.
Potential Impact of the Skyline Development
The proposed skyline development poses several risks to Kilvey Hill's ecology and geological stability:
Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: The construction of infrastructure such as gondolas, luge tracks, and zip lines would necessitate the clearance of significant vegetation, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. This could adversely affect the resident flora and fauna, particularly species with limited distribution.
Disturbance to Wildlife: Increased human activity, noise, and artificial lighting associated with the attraction could disrupt the behavior and breeding patterns of sensitive species, including reptiles and invertebrates. Continuous disturbances may lead to long-term population declines.
Geological Concerns: Kilvey Hill has a history of landslides, raising concerns about the stability of the terrain under new construction. The introduction of heavy structures and alteration of the landscape could exacerbate soil instability, increasing the risk of landslides.
Preserving Kilvey Hill as a green space is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, ensuring geological stability, and upholding community well-being. The potential ecological and geological risks associated with the proposed skyline development outweigh the anticipated benefits. It is imperative to prioritize environmental conservation and explore alternative initiatives that enhance Kilvey Hill's natural heritage without compromising its integrity.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Kilvey Hill, Port Tennant, Swansea, United Kingdom
