Natural England's Executive Board has today announced that it has approved the designation of Bushy Park as a new Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
There now follows a four month period for people with an interest in the site to make representations or objections to Natural England, before the board decides whether to formally confirm the site's new status.
SSSI status gives legal protection that ensures the nationally important wildlife and geology of a site is recognised in its management and future use.
Bushy Park, which received notification of SSSI status together with Home Park, is of special interest for its exceptionally large population of ancient and veteran trees, extensive areas of semi-natural lowland dry acid grassland, and its internationally significant populations of rare invertebrates.
This is a great accolade for Bushy Park and the team that works hard to conserve and protect this unique environment.