Fuel Ash Lagoons in Newbiggin

Fuel ash lagoons in Newbiggin originate from the former Alcan owned, coal fired power station was built about 45 years ago and the fuel ash residue from that plant was stored in “lagoons” covering a huge area of land that lies within the curtilage of the Parish of Newbiggin by the Sea.

The land area covered by the lagoons is “protected” by a robust steel fence that surrounds the lagoons.

There is no evidence that the surface of the lagoons have ever had a covering of earth yet the surface of the lagoons has attracted flora and fauna over four decades that has in turn attracted a wide range of wildlife. It could be said that the lagoons have become a wildlife sanctuary.

The future of the lagoons

The fuel ash stored in the lagoons may be considered to be a resource for the construction industry?

The future of the lagoons is uncertain in the longer term but in the immediate future it seems that what has become a sanctuary for wildlife can be adapted or used in the public interest.

The question is HOW?

Interested parties?

Newbiggin by the Sea Town Council

RSPB

Northumberland Wildlife Trust

Environment Agency

DEFRA

Lynemouth Parish Council

Northumberland County Council

English Nature

 

A Project to utilise the lagoons in the public interest

 The aims and objectives of such a project would need to be clearly identified and require agreement with the interested parties identified.

The viability and financial implications of the project would have to be set out.

A project Manager/Team would be required responsible to a delivery organisation.

 

Potential sources of funding

The owners of the Power Station

The Big Lottery

Northumberland County Council

Newbiggin by the Sea Parish Council

DEFRA

The Environment Agency

Natural England

 

Cllr Alan Thompson                               September 2018