Home / Environment / Isle of Man Dunes Get Top Nature Protection
Isle of Man Dunes Get Top Nature Protection
16 Jul
Summary
- A coastal dune stretch now has the highest legal protection.
- The reserve is crucial for over 120 bird species.
- New status aligns with the King's first visit as Lord of Mann.

A vital area of sand dunes on the Isle of Man's northern coast has achieved the highest legal protection. The Manx Wildlife Trust's Cronk y Bing Ayres reserve, near Andreas, was officially designated a national nature reserve by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.
This prestigious status recognizes the site as one of the island's most important wildlife locations. It is particularly significant for birds, with over 120 species recorded, including many on conservation concern lists. The reserve's habitats include sand dunes, grassland, and reedbeds, supporting rare plants and beach-nesting birds.
The new designation, providing the strongest protection under Manx law, was made to coincide with the King's first visit to the island as Lord of Mann. His Majesty's longstanding interest in nature conservation makes this recognition particularly fitting.