Biodiversity
Sand & Gravel Case Study

Attenborough Quarry, Beeston, Nottinghamshire
CEMEX UK Materials Limited

This site is located alongside the River Trent, south of the village of Attenborough near Beeston in Nottinghamshire, and forms part of the Trent's floodplain. In total it covers an area in excess of 365 hectares, and is in varying stages of operation ranging from unworked, to fully restored.

Planning

The extraction of sand and gravel at Attenborough began in 1929 by Trent Gravels Limited. Planning permissions for the extraction of material were granted between 1949 and 1969. More recently, an application for landscaping by infilling was also granted in 1993. As the sand and gravel deposits lie mainly below the water table, extraction has, in the past, been carried out by means of wet working.

Restoration

Restoration of the site has been to lakes and to a habitat that encourages wildfowl and other wildlife. As the gravel deposits were overlain with overburden consisting of soil and clay, this material was deposited back into the water filled excavations, thus resulting in numerous islands in the lakes. These have proved to provide appropriate resting places for the large number of birds that the area has attracted.

The site has been zoned to allow a variety of leisure activities to take place without detriment to wildlife. Currently the Attenborough Riding Club, Long Eaton Sailing Club, Nottingham Angling Association and Attenborough Bird Club all have designated areas where they can pursue their activities in relative freedom. The site is also well used by walkers who use the paths that link the islands. These paths were installed by the operating company, as too was the car parking area. A detailed study of the wildlife found on the site was carried out between 1993 and 1996, which reported a variety of birds, moths and other insects. Indeed, the site was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1982 for its regional significance for the overwintering wildfowl, particularly Pochard and Shovler Duck.

The management of the site is carried out in conjunction with the Nottingham Wildlife trust, who have had an association with the area for a number of years. Their input has been substantial, both advisory and actively, with much of the conservation work having been carried out by them. They are also involved in publicity/interpretation events and have a large number of volunteers who are involved in work parties, guided walks and open days.