Environmental Audit and Re-assessment of Some Selected Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites in Knowsley, UK

Abstract

The research involved conducting a site inventory and proposing a management strategy for six selected Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Sites (RIGSs) namely: Kirkby Brook, Kirkby Brook Waterfall, Knowsley Brook, Knowsley Park, Statd Moers Park and Charlotte’s Pagsy. The RIGSs are located in Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council (MBC), Merseyside County which is North-West of the United Kingdom. The ages of the rock formation in the area range from Carboniferous to Quaternary with respect to geological timescale.

A descriptive research approach was adopted for the study of the RIGSs and data was generated in-situ through geological mapping. This involved direct recording of geological observations in the study area which included site description and assessment, and condition monitoring of the geologically interesting features for a period of four months; October 2012 to January 2013. Photographs were taken to illustrate the site condition at the time the research was conducted. Results showed that the condition at the sites was generally poor and this indicates that a geoconservation management plan is required for the sites suggesting ways of managing and conserving the RIGSs.

This research demonstrates how geo-conservation can inform and enlighten individuals; and how the geological and geomorphological features, processes and sites can contribute to the aesthetics of the environment. It also suggests how it could render socio-economic support for sustainable development to give a strong basis for valuing the abiotic resources and promote the importance of geosciences through the role of sustainable geological key elements and land resources.