Lead spoil heaps: Gang Mine
Lead mining has taken place in the Peak since Roman times. Scattered along the lines of these old mines are small heaps of worked spoil that contain high levels of heavy metals. These lead spoil heaps support a unique habitat where only a few species can tolerate the high toxicity levels present.
Scientifically termed 'metallophyte' or 'calamarian' grasslands, the habitat is essentially a metal-rich grassland. Specialised plants to be found include alpine pennycress and spring sandwort, both of which are virtually restricted to this habitat. Where the spoil is less toxic, they may be found with more widespread grasses such as sheep's sorrel and sheep's fescue.
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Many species of lichen and the nationally scarce wolf spider Pirata latitans are also characteristic of this habitat. The metal-rich grasslands found at Gang Mine are highly restricted in occurrence throughout Europe and are recognised as a key biodiversity habitat. As a result Gang Mine has also been designated as a SSSI and candidate Special Area for Conservation.
Past small-scale lead mining is directly responsible for the formation of this habitat, and thus for its importance. However, such grasslands are still threatened with destruction due to mineral working and infilling.
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