The site is notably sloping downhill to the northwest. Access from Longstone Crescent is via relatively steep paths surfaced with aggregate. Arriving from this direction, on the most northerly path, the view into the site is blocked by a large pile of soil and other vegetation, reportedly dumped by neighbours. This both reduces sight lines and harbours weed-containing material, and ideally should be removed. Although I would recommend that something substantial be planted in its place to discourage further tipping.

There are several examples of where tree roots are helping to stabilise the slope, especially where footpaths are causing further erosion. Following this example, I would suggest that trees are a particularly appropriate means of stabilising any sloping ground that is identified as potentially problematic. 

Woodland in the lowest portion of the site, which we did not visit on the day, is dominated by willow and is reported to have springs running through it. Wet woodland is a BAP priority habitat and we could look to possibly improve or extend this this area using specific funding.

Not unexpectedly bramble spreads across much of the site. At least one footpath (it could be a desire line – this needs checking) has been lost to the spread of scrub dominated by bramble. It might well be desirable to remove some of this to make space for other planting. Bramble is, however, an important habitat and food source, so any removal must be carefully considered and done in consultation with the P&C.

There are the remains of a brick-built building on site that is associated with the area's mining heritage. As we do not know much about this structure, including its age and whether it has protected status, I have suggested that the Friends of the Crags approach local historical groups to find out more detail. 

Regarding the setting of fires, some are caused by local youths who are already known to residents. Rather than preventing them from having fires on site - I think this would be fruitless - it might be better to design an area where they can have fires safely. This would ideally be designed in consultation with those causing the problem – perhaps this outreach could be done through schools.