Lowland heathland is an extremely important UK BAP priority habitat that has suffered great loss and degradation, leading to areas of heathland becoming rare and fragmented.  Many of the rich mix of species found on heathland are specialists that rely on the unique elements of the habitat and therefore the threats faced by heathland put great pressure on the survival of these species.  Characterised by nutrient-poor, free-draining acidic soils, lowland heathland is found below 300m in altitude and the specific conditions required for this type of habitat make the protection and expansion of existing areas even more important.

Traditionally, heathland was managed by the local community who would utilise the habitat for their own needs.  Stock grazing, the use of bracken for livestock bedding and gorse and heather for fuel, all led to the maintenance of the habitat and slowed scrub encroachment and nutrient enrichment.  As agricultural practices changed, heathland suffered from neglect and development pressures.

Nowadays, management of heathland is focused on protecting the habitat for the specialist species found within as well as for cultural reasons.  The aim should be for a mosaic of different habitats within the heathland, including bare ground, heather, grasses and herbs as well as scrub and trees.  A variation of age structures within the mosaic is also essential, to ensure all species differing needs are catered for.  Areas should be managed on a rotational basis to provide the variation in age structure.

A lot of practical work is required to maintain heathland.  Managers can investigate funding opportunities from Natural England stewardship schemes.