Shotton Steelworks Discover Wildlife
The 'Tata Steel' site opened the reserve with their workers as well as volunteers have been developing the conservation area. The reserve covers a circular walk of 1.6km, accompanied by charming bird hides. The reserve has become infamous for becoming the UK's biggest common tern bird colony, and has now been regally labelled a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). These birds are an enchanting silvery -grey and white with long tails, contributing to their name 'sea-swallow.' They are often noisy but graceful in flight when plunging to grab their fish. However, it is not just birds who seek out this mini oasis, a number of other bird and wildlife species have made the lagoons their home.
With such magical sights to see , the site is open to all those of interest. It has officially opened to school groups, so school children can get a hands on experience with nature, outside the mundane classroom. Although the site does include an indoor classroom (perhaps for those rainy days) which was designed by workers in their spare time. Consequently, visitors and school children are able to explore wildlife through the natural untouched habitats whilst also learning about the area's industrial heritage.
Tata Steel's Environment Manager beautifully summarised the site as:
"A unique habitat that demonstrates how industry and nature can [sometimes] co-exist in harmony."
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
