Quarry Life Award – Bug Big Build
Judges from both the UK and international panels of the Quarry Life Award recently visited our Batts Combe quarry to view the progress of a community-led biodiversity project.
Now in its sixth edition, the Quarry Life Award is Heidelberg Materials’ nature-based competition. It aims to support and increase biodiversity at our quarry sites, strengthen relationships with communities and raise awareness about the importance of nature and habitats.
The project at Batts Combe quarry has been developed by Axe Valley Men’s Shed, a local group that promotes men’s mental health and well-being through practical activities and skill-sharing, in partnership with the Somerset Earth Science Centre. Their project, Bug Big Build, involves the design and construction of a large bug hotel shaped like a quarry truck, located on the grassy edge of the quarry’s car park.
Once complete, the structure will serve as a habitat for a variety of insects including bees, beetles, moths, millipedes and more, which are all vital for pollination and natural pest control.
UK judges, Catherine Cullen, Mineral Business Advice Manager at RSPB and Stephanie Greshon, Environmental Practitioner and Consultant Ecologist at Bath Spa University, as well as Simon Willis, CEO, and Marian Garfield, Sustainability Director at Heidelberg Materials UK, visited our Batts Combe quarry to meet the team from Axe Valley Men’s Shed and see how the project is progressing.
The judges’ visit began with a presentation from the project team, outlining the biodiversity benefits of the build, its community value and how it aligns with our 2030 commitments to build a nature positive future. They also had the chance to make their own bug house using sticks and pinecones.
Judges then toured the site to view progress, learn more about the recycled materials used and hear about the next steps for the project, which includes engagement with local schools. Schoolchildren from the area have been invited to take part in a competition to name the bug hotel, and the winner will cut the ribbon at the opening event.
Simon Parkes, Batts Combe Unit Manager, said: “We’re always looking for ways to strengthen our connection with the local community and this project has been a fantastic example of that. The team from Axe Valley Men’s Shed have brought real skill and creativity to the build, and we’re delighted to play a part in it.”