Brumby Woods Local Nature Reserve (LNR
Area: 12.2 Ha
Grid Ref: Scunthorpe
Site description
Brumby Woods is a mixed ancient semi-natural woodland (ASNW). It has some stands of mature deciduous trees and a younger secondary woodland with open glades. These resemble those created by coppicing. On the western woodland there are areas of younger conifers. This is mainly Scots pine with some older larch. The woodland is effectively split into two parts with the Kingsway road running between the western and eastern sectors.
The woodland provides an important backdrop to Central Park. It creates avisual boundary between residential areas. It is an important local amenity in Scunthorpe.
The woodland to the west of Kingsway contains a variety of habitats. These range from developing scrub and mixed broadleaved woodland through to recently planted conifers. It has extensive public access. It is also linked to adjacent woodland and recreational areas including the Ridge Walk.
There are fine views across the Trent valley from the north-south path.
There are some old oaks on the western edge, bordering the athletics ground. The wood has an almost complete ground cover of various plants. And in places a good secondary growth of scrub and brambles. Especially on the eastern sector where the canopy is more open. The ground flora is interesting with wide distribution of bluebells and dogs’ mercury.
The woodland to the east of Kingsway includes a mixture of ash, oak, sycamore, small-leaved lime, chestnut and elm. The ground flora includes giant bellflower and yellow archangel.
Geology of site
The woodland is on clay and limestone bandings that support a broadly calcareous flora. The lower section of area 7 has a covering of wind blown sand whose blanketing effect creates a mildly acidic habitat. The extent of this is well marked by the lower growth line of the dominant dogs’ mercury.
Recreational importance
Local residents and schools use the woodlands frequently. The site provides a location for peaceful walks. It also gives the public the opportunity to become involved in conservation work.
Site objectives:
- To sympathetically manage and maintain Brumby Woods as an ancient semi-natural woodland
- To enhance the wildlife value of the woodland
- To manage as an LNR and provide the opportunity of education and informal enjoyment of nature to the public
- To involve local people in the care and management of the woodland
Species found on site:
- Oak
- Small leaved-lime
- Hornbeam
- Hazel
- Wild cherry
- Wood speedwell
- Germander speedwell
- Hedge woundwart
- Arum
- Lords and ladies
- Creeping buttercup
- Sweet violet
- Hairy St Johns wort
- Red campion
- Large bellflower
- Bluebell
- Ramsons
- Wood sage
- Wood avens
- Enchanters nightshade
- Dogs mercury
- Foxglove
- Nipplewort