QUARRY RECLAMATION IN ENGLAND: A REVIEW OF TECHNIQUES

Abstract. This article reviews different techniques for reclaiming quarries in England. They can be used to reclaim abandoned quarries as well as those that are still operating. A number of reclamation techniques have been developed to revert land that has been quarried for minerals to some productive state. The techniques discussed in this paper include rollover slopes, backfilling, benchplanting, and restoration blasting. These techniques are mainly used to prepare quarry landform to support vegetation, ensure safety at site, as well as accommodate different after-uses. A less conventional method of natural recovery or spontaneous succession is also discussed. Whether applied solely or in combination, the use of these techniques has a potential to enhance the environmental qualities of land degraded by quarrying.