A PLAN to protect and enhance the environment has been launched at British Nuclear Fuels' Berkeley site.

Aim of the plan, detailed on Friday, is to deliver the company's commitments made in its sustainability principles document and to achieve one of the milestones agreed within the Environment Agency's forthcoming Nuclear Industry Sector Plan.

It comprises a timetable of activities over the next two years to maintain and enhance habitats for biodiversity around the site.

The plan also includes the Birds of Berkeley booklet - a guide to the 50 most common birds seen in the area.

Through the plan BNFL aims to:

BLOB Maintain and enhance the environment for wildlife and improve habitats on and around the site where it is consistent with safety and operational constraints.

BLOB Maintain the site to a professional standard.

BLOB Maximise the visual appeal of the site to workers and residents BLOB Raise awareness of the importance of protecting and enhancing biodiversity. Site manager Mark Steele said: "As part of our commitment to being environmentally responsible it is important that we proactively manage all aspects of our business. This includes biodiversity.

The plan delivers on the commitments made in the company's Sustainability Principles.

"It also provides us with framework for managing our business in a way that conserves, and where practical, enhances the environment for wildlife on and around our site, whilst continuing to deliver value for our customer.

"It also gives us a key area of common interest with the community, and in particular with schools, with whom we shall look to build upon our current good relationships by engaging with them and involving them in the work we are doing with biodiversity on our site."

Head of financial services for Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Lynne Carter said: "We have worked with members of British Nuclear Fuels Ltd for a number of years and we are delighted that BNFL have undertaken to prepare and deliver a biodiversity action plan for their site at Berkeley. Such plans help integrate staff and the community in working together to benefit wildlife and wildlife issues.

"It is a fantastic thing when a company addresses environmental issues. BNFL has such a presence in the community and it is important they demonstrate their commitment to wildlife."

Rosie Cliffe, head of habitats and species at the trust, added: "We are particularly pleased to note that the action plan identifies key species of interest on the Berkeley site and proposes measures to enhance their habitat. In addition the creation of new habitat and the sensitive management of existing areas within the grounds will help enhance the diversity of species recorded."

Stroud MP David Drew said: "What this plan is proving to me is that when a company like this puts it mind to it, working with other organisations, we can begin to take real world issues down to a local level. I congratulate BNFL on that. An awful lot of work has gone into it and I hope people will take it on. What is being done is very exciting."