Swinley Brick Pits

The Swinley Brick Pits, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Swinley Forest, are the site of the former T. Lawrence Brick Works. Abandoned since World War II the 22 hectare site was cleared during the late 1990’s of rampant rhododendron, pine and silver birch trees to reveal a fascinating landscape of wet mires, deep pools and brick earth excavations. The estate was awarded the millennium marque for nature conservation works which included the construction of pond retaining banks and sluice systems. Goats from the Cheviot Hills were introduced to graze the area, controlling the return of woodland vegetation and encouraging heath land.

Management over the last year has concentrated on preventing the return of rhododendron and birch woodland, two invasive species, which were re-colonising and causing the SSSI to decline. This work was completed and during the winter the SSSI was classified by Natural England to be in a recovering condition.