Wet fens for the future: Feasibility study phase 2 - a study of the economic and social implications of creating new wetlands in Fenland

Abstract

The Fens, a lowlying area of 3,700 square kilometres in central, east England, are unique in character in the UK, comparable only with The Netherlands in Europe. Over 70% of the area is farmland, criss-crossed by dykes and drains. The Fens are significant in terms of their integration of land use, economic activity, wildlife and scenic value, and are internationally important for their biodiversity. The Fens also contain some of the most fertile, high value agricultural land in Britain.