Restoration

Restoration

We restore Wensley Quarry progressively, which means that as each phase of extraction is completed, soils are replaced and the land is restored. This avoids leaving large areas unrestored until the end of operations. This also has the advantage of allowing restoration to begin while other areas of the quarry are still being worked, so new habitats and landscapes can start to establish themselves earlier.

Each of the remaining phases will follow this principle, with land returned to agricultural grazing, stone walls, native planting and small water features where appropriate.

Restoration to date

Parts of the quarry that have already been worked have also been restored, helping the site to blend back into the surrounding countryside. Existing restoration includes:

  • Re-profiled quarry faces and benches
  • Grassland and pasture

Future restoration and biodiversity

As part of our Section 73 application, we are reviewing the existing restoration scheme to reflect feedback received and new ecological surveys. Our aims include:

  • Creating a more varied and natural landform that reflects local landscape character
  • Enhancing biodiversity with habitats such as calcareous grassland, wet features, hedgerows and woodland
  • Designing restoration to support key species of interest, including curlew and other farmland and grassland birds
  • Retaining and strengthening important hedgerows and field boundaries where possible
  • Reinstating the historic riverbed with limestone scrapes
  • Creating seasonally wet grassland and water bodies

Through our Section 73 application, we are aiming to design a restoration scheme that is more ambitious and beneficial for the natural environment and landscape character.

We are currently reviewing the proposed restoration scheme to have more focus on nature conservation. We are currently reviewing this and will present our proposals through the consultation period for comments.

Our wider track record

Tarmac has delivered award-winning restoration schemes at several quarries in Yorkshire, including Nosterfield, Arcow and Dry Rigg. These sites demonstrate how former quarries can become important areas for wildlife and public enjoyment once extraction is complete. We intend to apply the same approach and lessons learned at Wensley Quarry, working with local stakeholders to agree a restoration vision that creates long-term environmental benefits. You can read more about these schemes here.