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A
study of the potential to enhance the green and
open spaces of Stocksbridge SRB5
Report by Jim Flanagan and Sheffield Wildlife Trust
for SVP 7.7. Actions in the COUNTRYSIDE ZONE Much of the action in this zone will focus on the development of the nature reserve network building on already existing sites and establishing or enhancing the links between them (Heritage, sustainability trails etc). On some sites it may be possible to enhance their amenity and education value by setting up nature trails. 7.7.1. The Nature Reserve Network 7.7.1.1. Townend Common Townend Common and Quarry (also known as Allman Well Quarry) are really one continuous area situated to the east and south of Stocksbridge Golf Course. Much of the Quarry (last worked around the 1870s or 1880s), as might be expected contains large hollows where rock has been gouged out and in between are steep rocky hillocks and outcrops with large amounts of stone spoil. In contrast, most of the Common, contains larger areas of level land sloping down northwards but there are a variety of small ravines (these possibly entrances to mine adits or mine drainage channels), spoil heaps and hollows that have been subject to motorcycle scrambling in the recent past. These two sites contain a complex mosaic of heather moor, areas of rush, mosses, grassland and some large areas of bracken. There are small pools in a few locations and frog and palmate newts are present on the site. Springs flow all year round. Nature conservation on this site should aim to develop wetland features A series of ponds and small streams to attract dragonflies could be installed easily. In the more wet flush areas the construction of a board walk with wooden railings where its route is made to run adjacent to some pools. This would be a useful educational resource but may possibly be a likely target for vandalism. It is recommended that work should not proceed until there are developments in the provision of motorcycle scrambling facilities at a nearby location (possibly More Hall Tip area). 7.7.1.2. Stone Moor (green audit site) Stone Moor is a privately-owned area of in-bye moorland fringe valuable because it provides nesting sites for several Lapwing and possibly a pair of Curlew. The site contains grassland and wet flush areas with some scrub and is easily observed from Stone Moor Road. It provides contrast with the adjacent, more intensively used pasture grazing fields and Stone Moor recreation field. Given the current situation with farming, particularly dairy, there is always the constant risk of intensification of use of these fields through increased inputs (slurry spreading or soil tipping etc), drainage or removal of areas of scrub. A cautious approach will be required to ensure the nature conservation interest of this site is maintained. This could be achieved through discrete monitoring and contact with the landowner to gain commitment and support. 7.7.1.3. Ellen Cliff Wood This is an area of woodland that has been split into two with the building of the railway line into the steel works. Mainly in the ownership of Corus Engineering Steels but the part that needs most management attention is attached to a neighbouring farm. It is a bluebell wood but much degraded due to the history of extensive tree planting on the site (which is a recent event in one area of the woodland). The topography is varied but the wood is generally southeast facing with some steep slopes where the railway line bisects it. In some areas dense shade and sheep grazing has destroyed ground and shrub layers and there is little regeneration of trees. Erosion because of steepness of slopes is also a problem. The wood could be selectively thinned in some places to encourage more structural diversity and re-establish ground flora. There are a number of footpaths running through and along the wood. One route that could be the focus of improvement (walling, steps and surfacing work) is the one accessed just north of the railway viaduct. There is also an interpretation board nearby the footpath entrance south of the bridge that forms the eastern end of the Stocksbridge Steel Valley Walk. 7.7.1.4. Existing reserves and other potential sites (for development or inclusion in the nature reserve network) These could include the following:
All these sites have potential for habitat enhancement and improved visitor amenities. However, some sites will have an equal if not more importance for heritage (such as Wharncliffe Heath) so this list should not be considered as definitive. Yorkshire Water's Underbank Wood is largely coniferous and is also the location of an activity centre for sailing and other leisure pursuits and nature conservation is likely to be a secondary consideration for this site. Those sites in the ownership of Broomhead Estate are particularly problematical in terms of nature reserve management but they are included because they currently have significant wildlife interest and people are able to enjoy much of this interest through the access afforded by the existing public footpath network.
The following actions could be encouraged as an integral part of the development of the nature reserve network.
7.7.2. Community Parks 7.7.2.1. Common Lane Recreation Ground (green audit site) Currently used mainly for football with two marked out pitches, a car park and an outbuilding. There are areas of amenity and rough grass around the pitches that could provide space for landscape improvements. Tree and shrub planting or meadows or even gardens for vegetable growing could be set up. There is already an existing fenced off area where trees have been planted. This could provide a location for a possible composting or recycling centre and community garden. It is also a possible location for new allotments.
Menu for this Section is in the right hand column
Stocksbridge SRB5 Greenspace Audit undertaken by Jim Flanagan for Sheffield Wildlife Trust - see their Community Action Handbook - full of good ideas for your local site |
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