Hi all just wanted to drop in and introduce myself. I have just got a Potensic Atom and have still to embark on my first flight, given the weather lately it could be some time before I do
I have tried to find this info so forgive me as it’s most likely been asked a few times but can we fly drones in areas designated as SSSI?
Most of the coastline of the Wirral is SSSI if I am reading Drone Scene correctly but I have also seen a number of posts discussing flying in these areas.
Any advice would be appreciated or if someone can point me to the information that would be great.
We’re a well established club with many knowledgeable members so it’s very likely that any issues you come across will have been discussed here before. Our discussion forum has very powerful search features which should help you find what you need but if you get stuck you can post a new question in the Questions & Answers category.
And finally, if you are new to drones and wondering what it’s all about, have a look at Resources for a beginner.
Hello David, welcome to Grey Arrows, hope you enjoy it…
SSSI flying depends on the reason for the SSSI, if nesting birds it would be unwise, but if it is for rare plants or geology then you should be ok, if in doubt then ask on the forum…
The various SSSI round the Wirral coast are mostly about the over-Wintering birds although there are natterjack toads at Red Rocks
To add to the problem there are a number of rare birds of prey plus a great swathe of the Dee estuary is an RSPB nature reserve teeming with birds.
Perhaps the best course of action would be to avoid the Dee Estuary and anywhere near Hilbre Island and have a fly round the corner at Perch Rock.
Go to the base of the fort early or late in the day when it’s quiet and fly towards the lighthouse. Makes for some interesting photos especially at sunset.
As it’s quite exposed to the Westerly winds I’d choose a really calm day for your first flights.
As Suzanne said, it largely depends on why it’s an SSSI.
For example, if I click on the Drone Scene SSSI layer around the Mersey Narrows, then click through on the “Find out more about this SSSI” link, it takes me through to here:
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