Great Casterton Road Banks
Parish: Stamford
OS: 130 • GR: TF 006084 • Map ref: 64
0.25 hectares (0.60acres) • Freehold 1968
Habitat type: Grassland
Location and Access
The reserve is situated just west of Stamford on the south of the Old Great North Road and to the west of the junction with Sidney Farm Lane. Access to the site is difficult. It is best to park on Sidney Farm Lane well away from the junction and walk back to the Old North Road, and then west for some 5 m. The entrance is located to the right of the mature ash tree.
Description and Management
The area consists of a steep limestone bank rising from the main road, together with a buffer strip acquired in 1991. The top of the bank is fairly flat with a few hills and hollows. The site is renowned for its limestone flowers and abundant butterflies. The grassland contains typical limestone plants, such as wild thyme, common rock-rose, salad burnet, kidney vetch and quaking-grass. More unusual plants include sulphur clover, knapweed broomrape and perennial flax.
Ecological studies of insects associated with rock-rose have been carried out on the reserve. Despite encroachment of housing and improvements to the adjoining roads this small site retains much of its interest. Management includes the control of scrub and grassland mowing.
Supported by the
Heritage Lottery Fund
