More About the Marlot

Many years ago, local people came to the Marlot to dig for marl, which is a light, sandy clay, once used as a fertiliser. In more recent years it was a place where people dumped all kinds of waste material, including broken glass, scrap metal, wire and plastics.  (new text) It is now entering a new era as a Local Nature Reserve.

How is the Marlot Managed?

Having once become registered as common land, it fell under the stewardship of Whixall Parish Council. The Parish Council has recognised the importance of the site as a wildlife refuge and has enlisted the aid of Shropshire Council, Natural England, Shropshire Wildlife Trust and other conservation groups to identify the various species and to advise upon the most effective way to manage the site. 

What work has been done so far?

Staff from Veolia, the waste management company, gave up their time to assist with clearing the dumped materials. Then major scrub clearance work was organised through Shropshire Council and various ponds were re-established. A handful of local volunteers (Marlot Conservation Group) have also been involved with the initial clearance work; they do their best to maintain the site and are grateful for the continued assistance of other volunteer and conservation groups. 

How to get involved as a volunteer

It is hoped that more local people will get involved in the future, especially as the Marlot is now officially recognised as a wildlife site. If you want to volunteer to help with this work please contact the Parish Council for further information.

How do I find the Marlot?

Park at, or walk to, Roundthorn Bridge and open the gate to something different, but please don’t pick the flowers.

Other information

A recent newt survey trapped 22 newts: 12 Smooth Newts and 10 Great Crested Newts.