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The ABLE Project - Wakefield
The ABLE Project is a demonstration of sustainable development in action, showing how fish for human consumption can be produced at inland fisheries in a highly innovative way that simultaneously delivers significant added value environmental, economic and social benefits.
The Andrew Barker Lepton Employment (ABLE) Project was born in West Yorkshire as a training initiative to support people recovering from substance misuse. As the project grew in size and scope it relocated to Wakefield to a reclaimed landfill site owned by Yorkshire Water.
As part of the regeneration of the 34 acre site the project includes developing allotments, an orchard, woodland and wildlife habitats and developing the riverbank for angling and outdoor activity opportunities.
At the heart of the scheme in Wakefield is a fish farming operation, rearing Sturgeon, ornamental and edible Carp, Catfish and Tilapia. In addition to the fish farming activities, the project also delivers a wide range of other activities and outputs including:
- Training in aquaculture and horticulture.
- Utilise composted sludges from the sewage treatment works for the next 8-10 years to grow 20 acres of willow and hazel coppicing.
- Plant a 3 km long, 5 metre wide hedgerow.
- Plant a 14 acre woodland.
- Created a 3 km wildlife trail manufactured from recycled plastic for use as an educational resource.
- Created sensory education pods .
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Establish a rural crafts training centre
ABLE's Educational packages include:
Whole class themed visit
A large group visit including a tour of the site followed by small group work and activities . Themes include: waste and recycling, sustainability, food production and natural resources. We have a maximum of 15 people per group to ensure that we do not breach our health and safety limit. Half day and full day programmes are available.
12 week programme with optional Asdan certification
Choose between a range of Asdan Activity programmes including Skills for Aquaculture, Introduction to Wildlife and Farm Skills or work with ABLE staff to develop an award catering to your particular interests. Typically programmes last for 12 weeks and result in a 60 credit award but can be increased or decreased to meet your needs.
Informal, voluntary sector group visit
Come for a tour of the site with a group you are involved with to see the farm at different times of year. We do not make a formal charge for these small visits but donations help us to cover our staff costs.
