from quarry to conservation: holcim uk restores newbold quarry for local wildlife

Holcim UK has completed its environmental restoration project at Newbold Quarry, which hastransformed a former aggregates extraction site within an active quarry into a thriving naturalhabitat as part of its ongoing Nature Strategy.

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This initiative has not only revitalised biodiversity in the area but has also fostered strong community engagement and earned praise from local authorities. 

Newbold Quarry is a vital resource for construction materials, and faces significant environmental challenges following the end of extraction activities within the North West area of the site, meaning a forward-thinking approach to ensure its sustainable future.

Holcim UK, a leader in responsible quarry management, took the initiative to rehabilitate the site with a comprehensive strategy focused on environmental conservation, water management and public accessibility.

The restoration project was carefully designed to maximise ecological benefits while enhancing public enjoyment of the space. Holcim UK collaborated with ornithologists and local conservation groups, including West Midlands Bird Club, to create optimal habitats for a variety of bird species, including black-necked grebes. 

Walking trails, observation points, and educational signage were also incorporated to encourage community involvement and environmental awareness. The local community has been firmly involved in the rehabilitation. The Newbold Quarry Liaison Group formed between Holcim UK and the local community to ensure the quarry didn’t negatively impact the local community and to involve locals in rehabilitation once quarrying was complete.

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Speaking about the success of the rehabilitation, Kaziwe Kaulule, Managing Director, Aggregates, at Holcim UK, said: “This project demonstrates our commitment to sustainable quarry restoration and responsible environmental stewardship. By working closely with conservation groups, local authorities, and the community, we have turned an industrial site into a flourishing habitat that benefits both wildlife and people.”

Holcim UK remains dedicated to ongoing environmental initiatives, using Newbold Quarry as a best practice example for future rehabilitation projects. The company continues to explore innovative ways to enhance biodiversity, integrate sustainable practices and give back to local communities.

Holcim UK’s Nature Strategy demonstrates its continual commitment to a sustainable future. The strategy lays out the commitment for all the business’ active quarry sites in the UK to have biodiversity plans, its dedicated nature plans for each of them, and the rollout of a woodland programme. 

For more information on Holcim UK’s nature strategy visit www.holcim.co.uk