The reserve is expected to expand from 78 hectares to around 280 hectares
Plans to more than triple the size of a scenic nature reserve in Cambridgeshire have moved forward. Paxton Pits in Little Paxton near St Neots is set to expand from 78 hectares to about 280, making it one of the largest in Cambridgeshire.
Plans were initially submitted to Huntingdonshire District Council. The land was due to be transferred in phases over the coming years as gravel extraction is completed, with the new lease extending until 2087.
In the latest update, District Councillor Martin Hassall for Buckden, Diddington, and Southoe has confirmed that the final phase of excavation is scheduled for late summer to early autumn.
The footpath to the Ouse is now reportedly open and the quarry operator is currently submitting the paperwork to convert it into a bridleway. The bridleway from Diddington Pit to the Quarry, which continues to the Paxton Pits Visitor Centre is due to open by this summer, according to Cllr Hassall.
The nature reserve is expected to have three more lakes, islands for wading birds, and a variety of habitats. Extension leases for the reserve are due to be signed this month and a soft opening is expected to follow.
Councillor Hassall said: “The quarry team is working in full accordance with the current planning permission. A new planning and restoration application is underway. Site inspections from October and January were positive, with consultations indicating no technical issues.”
The councillor explained that ‘Area B’ was revisited based on new information and it was determined that significantly less inert material is required for restoration. This specific detail needs final approval and might be a delegated decision. If not, it would likely go to the June Planning Committee.
The project will also provide 27 kilometres of footpaths, 8.4 kilometres of cycleway, and new bird hides and viewpoints.
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