Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) are the local wildlife sites of Greater London, designated by local authorities and recognised in local planning policies. The SINC network supports the best wildlife habitats across the boroughs.  It plays a vital role in the recognition and protection of biodiversity across the capital, as well as enhancing people’s experience of nature.

Boroughs apply SINC guidance in strategic land use and site management decisions, as well as in the planning system more broadly. The SINC network provides a vital foundation for nature recovery planning across London, encouraging more sustainable development and land use that benefits people and nature.

Review of the guidance was commissioned in response to key drivers, including the urgency of nature recovery and climate change resilience, the recreational needs of a growing population, and ambitions for rewilding.

We worked alongside the London Wildlife Trust and Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL) to review and update the SINC guidelines for London.  This work builds on our longstanding expertise in SINC assessment and policy development.

The Review combined desk-based assessments with wide-ranging consultation across London Boroughs, the London Wildlife Sites Board, strategic NGOs and a dedicated Scrutiny Panel.

The updated draft guidance clarifies the selection and designation process. It introduces revised site grading and new criteria focused on climate resilience.

Our recommendations are being tested to fully explore the implications on all SINC Grades across inner and outer boroughs.

SINCs form an important part of England’s broader strategy for delivering nature recovery and for addressing climate change resilience. This work contributes to ensuring a bigger, better, more connected and resilient nature network. Strategic support of the environment at a high level delivers tangible benefits by connecting communities with everyday experiences of nature.