Biodiversity
Sand & Gravel Case Study

Stanwick Quarry, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
Hanson Aggregates

Stanwick Quarry is located 8km north-east of Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, within the Nene Valley floodplain. The quarry opened in 1985 and whilst dormant for a few years, has an approximate remaining life of 5 years. The entire Stanwick site covers 307 hectares, which is divided into sections. The example of good restoration relates to one of the earlier restoration phases, which covers approximately 42.5 hectares.

Planning

The site operates under several planning consents granted by Northamptonshire County Council between 1978 and 1995. The permissions relate to the extraction of sand and gravel and the occasional extraction of the underlying Oxford Clay. By legal agreement the site has been and indeed, continues to be restored for nature conservation and low key recreational activities.

Restoration and Landscaping

The objective of the restoration scheme was to create a varied natural habitat for wildlife that inhibits water, open ground and woodland. To complement the existing river valley and its floodplain, emphasis has, however, been on the wetland environment. As such, the site consists of several large lakes, with ponds and marshes. The lakes also contain small islands and their margins are convoluted so as to provide small habitats and breeding for wildlife, birds and insects.

The restoration process has been subject to full survey control to ensure the eventual water levels would conform to the design of shorelines, islands, shallows, ponds and flood meadows, which are dependent on a high water table. These landform features have proved to be the foundation for establishing and encouraging a wide range of vegetation types and habitats and hence biodiversity.

Existing established tree planting has been conserved and new planting of more than 25 species has also been carried out - most of which are on the Local Authority's list of approved species. Public rights of way have been retained and in some cases modified and extended.

Management and Aftercare

To enhance the habitat value of the site, Hanson Aggregates has initiated a management plan for all restored areas. This includes low intensity cattle grazing of the restored flood meadow and mowing areas for hay, thus creating a series of lawns and glades within the tall grass and scrub areas. In 1992, the operating company entered into a ten year Countryside Stewardship Agreement for part of the site, which incorporates various management requirements including the pollarding of willows.