Geodiversity

The most important geological sites and features in the county are protected as Sites of Special Scientific Interest or as Local Sites (formerly known as County Geological Sites). For more information see protected sites.  

Durham Geodiversity Audit  

The County Durham Geodiversity Audit (PDF) [6MB] provides a detailed description and evaluation of the geological and geomorphological features of County Durham. It was prepared by the British Geological Survey, in collaboration with us, with funding from the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund (ALSF) administered by the Minerals Industry Research Organisation (MIRO). 

North Pennines UNESCO European and Global Geopark  

The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) was awarded the status of UNESCO European Geopark in 2003. You can get details of the Geopark and its work in conserving and interpreting Geodiversity on the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty website.  

North Pennines Geodiversity Audit and Action Plan  

The North Pennines AONB Geodiversity Audit and Action Plan 2004 -2009 covers the AONB area and can be downloaded from the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty website.