Heathland is a habitat of outstanding importance, supporting a range of species which are nationally or internationally rare or endangered. It should be emphasised that it is not only the heather dominated land which is important but the whole matrix including bare ground, scattered scrub, grassy areas and trees, all of which support a rich diversity of species. The national Habitat Action Plan for lowland heathland can be viewed at the Joint Nature Conservation Committee website. It gives a UK total for lowland heathland of 58,000 hectares and sets objectives and targets for maintaining and expanding the heathland resource.

On a local level, Surrey's Heathland Habitat Action Plan highlights the value of the heathland habitat and identifies action required to maintain and enhance the status of heathland in Surrey and its associated species mix. For further information about Surrey's Biodiversity Action Plan, including the opportunity to purchase copies of the individual Habitat Action Plans, please contact Surrey Wildlife Trust, School Lane, Pirbright, Surrey, 01483 488055 or visit the external link on this page.