Nature And Landscape

Conservation of Owlthorpe Fields

Owlthorpe was once a mix of agricultural/industrial land use - mining, sickle making, charcoal. This has now transformed into smaller parcels of land supporting housing developments. Once an area of Derbyshire this was incorporated into Sheffield area in 1960’s (60th anniversary). In recent years the landscape has transformed into valuable habitats now supporting red data flora/fauna. Areas once subjected to traditional skills in the Fields such as hedgelaying etc require attention. The community are interested in restoring/researching these remnants to interpret and learn more. Ancient woodland has been added to the national inventory suggesting land use going back many hundreds of years. The project would draw on the enthusiasm and support of the community and group. Today, as a suburban housing settlement it cannot be underestimated the importance it offers-outdoor recreation, health, clean air/climate change. The location is also a wildlife corridor connecting greenspaces in the Shirebrook Valley/Moss Valleys.