Invasive non-native species INNS

The National Planning Policy Framework which was revised in December 2025 includes a glossary which defines Ancient woodland as "An area that has been wooded continuously since at least 1600 AD. It includes ancient semi-natural woodland (ASNW), plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS), ancient wood pasture and parkland (AWPP) an infilled ancient wood pasture and parkland (IAWPP)."

All of these various types are also listed within the Biodiversity Gain Requirements (Irreplaceable Habitat) Regulations 2024 under its schedule of irreplaceable habitats, and all have a relationship with and thus can be impacted by Invasive non-native species. The Wildlife and Countryside Link say "INNS are a persistent threat to ancient woodlands and to native species. Invasive mammals, plants, pests and pathogens are estimated to cost the UK economy over £4bn each year. In total, ash dieback alone (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is predicted to cost the UK £15 billion, and it is often down to private landowners, farmers and charities to deal with the cost."

Trees in Hard Landscapes, A Guide for Delivery, published by the Trees and Design Action Group in September 2014, defines invasive non-native species (INNS) as: ‘…a non-native animal or plant that has the ability to spread causing damage to the environment, the economy, our health and the way we live.’

Water for life and livelihoods, River basin management plans, Glossary, Published by the Environment Agency in 2016, states: ‘Many species of plants and animals have been introduced to this country. Several of these non-native species are invasive and have been causing serious problems to the aquatic and riverine ecology and environment. Problems include detrimental effects on native species, deoxygenation of water causing fish mortalities, blocking of rivers and drainage channels, predation and competition with native species, and, in some cases, pose health risks to the public or livestock.’

North Ayrshire Local Biodiversity Action Plan, 2019-2031, published by North Ayrshire Council, states in relation to invasive non-native species (INNS): ‘Non-Native Species (NNS) are those species found outside their normal or native range as a direct result of human activity. When a non-native species is established and then becomes a problem to the local ecosystem or economy, it is labelled ‘invasive’.’

They are also referred to as alien invasive species.

See also: Native species.

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