The Limerick Cement Works is immediately adjacent to Bunlicky lake. Bunlicky lake was formed through quarrying on the site many years ago. Since quarrying in that area ceased, the area was allowed fill with water and has since become a haven for all manner of wildlife. As well as home to multiple bird species, otters have also taken up residence in the lake, attracted by the plentiful food supply, choice of burrows and very little human activity.
We have also recently discovered freshwater mussels in the lake.
Sandmartins are a regular feature around the site in the Spring and Summer months. We have constructed purpose-built nesting sites for them.
We work with local and national ecologists to monitor the activity of the various species on-site and understand where we can enhance their habitats.
We also encourage biodiversity in local schools through our partnership with Living Woodlands, a local enterprise run by two brothers.
This enterprise plants ‘Tiny Forests’ of native trees within the grounds of local schools, bringing wild spaces into the heart of local communities and teaching children about the promotion of biodiversity in the process.
As members of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, we aim to expand and enhance our pollinator-friendly spaces. We do this by allocating ‘Grow, don’t Mow’ spaces around site, planting wildflower areas, ensuring that green spaces are factored into project works, where practical.