The challenge
Birkhams Quarry has been in operation for over two centuries. The distinctive red sandstone remains a sought-after material for historic restoration, urban regeneration, and new construction projects both locally and throughout the UK.
However, the quarry is situated within the St Bees Head Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is designated as a Local Geological Site and is part of a Heritage Coast. It is also adjacent to the renowned Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk public right of way and bordered by two residential properties.
Our task was to balance the commercial imperatives of an active quarry with the environmental, scientific, and social benefits of such a historic site.
Our approach
We have adopted a collaborative approach with all stakeholders, working together to achieve a range of positive outcomes:
• Continued commercial quarrying of a sought-after material
• The conservation of nature
• The fostering of a cultural landscape of national significance
• Improving public understanding of the geology, natural and industrial history of the site
• Enhanced public access.
Birkhams Quarry is now worked on a phased campaign basis, where stone is extracted during a 4–6-week period between February and March, while also avoiding the local bird breeding season.
New areas of coastal heath and herb-rich neutral grassland are being established, and several of the sandstone cliff faces are being allowed to re-naturalise with vegetation and bird nesting opportunities. Other quarry faces, including some historic working areas, will be maintained to ensure that geological cross-sections through the Triassic fluvial sandstones remain visible for future generations.
A new geological trail has been established, providing safe access to former working faces on a prearranged basis, allowing geologists to study the site up close. The coastal footpath around the perimeter is being maintained, and interpretation boards have been installed on geological rock samples along the public right-of-way, offering visitors information about the quarry's history and geology. Once commercial quarrying ceases, plans are in place to further enhance public access within the site.
The outcome
As well as achieving multiple positive outcomes for the site, the local environment and scientific and leisure visitors, our work at Birkhams Quarry was recently awarded a special commendation in the Minerals Extractives section of the international MPA Quarries & Nature Awards – the only dimensional block stone quarry to feature in the whole ceremony.
