Fencing Project at Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve
We recently completed a challenging but rewarding fencing project at Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve
58 Acres
Of SSSI
290 Metres
Of Clipex Fencing
Over 300
Varieties of wild plant, including eight species of orchid
The undulating landscape, of 58 acres, was created by medieval limestone quarrying. Barnack stone, taken from the site was used to build local cathedrals of Peterborough and Ely. By 1500 all useful stone had been removed and the bare heaps of limestone rubble that remained gradually became covered by the profusion of wildflowers that can be seen today. Barnack’s rich flora supports a wide variety of wildlife, especially insects, and a number of scarce species can be found on the site.
In autumn the area is grazed by approximately 120 sheep which remove summer growth and build-up of leaves, stalks and grassy tussocks. Without this grazing the build-up of coarse grasses and leaf litter would rapidly choke the rarer lime loving plants.
Due to this unique limestone habitat it was essential to approach the work with care and precision to preserve it’s delicate ecosystem. As a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), every step we took had to ensure minimal impact on the landscape.
Removing the Old Fencing
The first task involved removing the existing, damaged fencing. This was a crucial step to prepare the site for the new installation. Ensuring that no debris was left behind and the surrounding habitat remained undisturbed set the tone for the rest of the project.
Installing the Clipex Fencing
We installed approximately 290 metres of Clipex fencing using their ‘Beefy’ Posts, which are designed to provide additional ground holding and strength to the fence line, and 11-122-15 netting. To address the site’s undulating ground, we included a high-tensile bottom line wire. This addition was instrumental in filling gaps created by the uneven terrain, ensuring the fence’s effectiveness and durability.
Challenges
Access: Reaching some parts of the site required careful planning to avoid damaging the sensitive grassland.
Preservation: As the site is an SSSI, minimising ground disturbance was a top priority. We took great care to use machinery only where essential and kept our movements limited to specific pathways.
Hummocky Ground: The varied terrain presented a significant challenge in tensioning the netting. Achieving a consistent, taut fence line required meticulous adjustments and teamwork.
Results
Despite these challenges, the project was a success. The new fencing is robust and perfectly suited to the reserve’s requirements. It will support conservation efforts by enabling better management of grazing animals, which pay a key role in maintaining the unique biodiversity of Barnack Hills and Holes.
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