Cotswolds set to become global geopark (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cotswolds set to become global geopark

THE Cotswolds could soon be put on the map as a site of international geological interest.

It is in the running to become a global geopark which would ensure the area is protected and preserved as well as boosting tourism in the area and increased funding from the EU.

The Gloucestershire Geoconservation Trust (GGT) is heading the bid for geopark status, supported by English Nature and English Heritage. They believe that the title would help to highlight the county's Jurassic heritage.

GGT spokesman David Owen said: "The county is one of the most geologically diverse counties in the country.

"We cover hundreds of millions of years and the Cotswolds itself has a couple of hundred million years all to itself."

The Cotswolds is rich in fossils as it was once under a tropically warm ocean. Prehistoric remains have been found in the area, including the discovery of the first Megalosaurus in Minchinhampton.

However, the GGT believes more effort must be made to make sure the sites are preserved for future generations.

Mr Owen said: "A lot of sites are under threat. They get grown over by vegetation or used for landfill."

Part of the problem is that development in the area has meant many sites, such as quarries have been filled in for health and safety reasons. With geopark status there would be a greater protection against this.

The geopark initiative is designed to enhance UNESCO's World Heritage Site Scheme.

The proposal is in its early stages but if it is approved, a 1,500sq km area of the North Cotswolds would become England's third Geopark.

The other two sites in the UK are the Pennines and Malvern Hills.

The initiative has two main objectives, to enhance the value of sites which are key witnesses to Earth's history and to create employment and regional economic development.

Since the scheme was launched in 2000, 19 geoparks have been established worldwide. The aim is to create 500 geoparks globally.