98-hour volunteer effort at derbyshire reservoir completed

14 volunteers from the sustainability, aggregates, technical services and risk and assurance teams came together for a total of 98 on-site hours to improve the local pathways around the reservoir, ensuring adequate and safe access for pedestrians on foot, using wheelchairs or
pushchairs. 

Drainage issues on the far side of the reservoir, where water runs off to the neighbouring field, had caused the walkways to become unstable and re-surfacing work was required. As well as significant volunteer hours, Aggregate Industries also donated 14 tonnes of stone chippings for this project from its Cauldon Low quarry in Staffordshire. 

The team undertook various tasks, including moving the donated stone chippings from the car park into place on the other side of the reservoir – approximately a 1km walk – as well as clearing brambles and dead vegetation from around the site. 

Steve Scudder, Director at Codnor Park Fishery said: “It’s difficult to know where to start with showing our appreciation to the team at Aggregate Industries for all their support. The calibre and positive attitude of all their employees shone through, despite the incredibly
heavy workload they took on. Their work has meant we can continue to offer safe and accessible walkways for everyone in the local community to enjoy the views of the reservoir. The donated materials have been pivotal to our project to restore the pathways here.”

Janine Hughes, Sustainability Business Partner at Aggregate Industries, said: “It was a privilege to work with the team at Codnor Park Reservoir for the day, and this event provided a brilliant opportunity for our colleagues to get to know each other better. Everyone showed
just how hard-working, friendly and kind they all are – which epitomises the spirit of volunteering.

“We’re delighted that our work and chippings donation means that people of the East Midlands can continue to enjoy all that Codnor Park has to offer, whether that’s fishing, walking or simply enjoying the stunning views.”

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Scott Miller, Business & Corporate Engagement Partner, for the Canal & River Trust, said: “As a charity the support of partners such as Aggregate Industries is so important in helping with our vital work to protect the nation’s historic waterways for future generations. We’re so grateful to the team from Aggregate Industries who have made a real difference and helped to ensure that local people can continue to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of visiting the reservoir.”

Continuing its support for the local Canal and River Trust, Aggregate Industries also sponsored the organisation’s East Midlands Volunteer Awards, which sees recognition for local teams and individuals across the network of waterways and reflects the fantastic range of volunteering that takes place with the Trust.