The old gravel pit in Necton, known locally as the Marl Pit is undergoing a transformation to make it a community woodland. Recently purchased by Necton Parish Council from Breckland District Council, the site was abandoned to nature for over forty years. It is believed that since Victorian times aggregate was extracted for use in constructing local roads. During the second world war, the site provided materials for the runways at North Pickenham airfield.
When it closed, the two-and-a-half-acre site became overgrown and was used as an unofficial dumping ground. Once the site was in Parish Council ownership, Necton Area Trust (NAT) undertook the refurbishment project to create an open access community woodland for local residents to enjoy.
The purpose of the open day on Sunday 20th March 2022 was to show local people what had been achieved to date. Over 135 local residents visited the site, many bringing their dogs. NAT Trustee and community reporter, Paul Young spoke to several people on the day – listen to what he heard here.