Polhote and Polneul Burns
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Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Upper Carboniferous [Namurian (part) - Westphalian] | Favourable | — | 2009-01-14 |
Geology & landscape
Geological Period: Carboniferous, Ordovician
Description
Polhote and Polneul Burns Polhote and Polneul Burns lie 4km west of Kirkconnel in upper Nithsdale. This locality shows key exposures through the Namurian and Westphalian strata of the Sanquhar Coalfield, complementing the sequence of higher strata at Lagrae Burn. Its rocks in the Passage Group and the Coal Measures (Westphalian A and B) yield important data on the fauna, flora and stratigraphy of the Upper Carboniferous and represent the most continuous and fossiliferous sequence of Namurian and Westphalian A strata in southwest Scotland. The Carboniferous sequence, which lies unconformably above the Ordovician includes fine sections through sandstones and bauxitic clays of the Passage Group, Tait’s Marine Band and plant and bivalve bearing horizons up to the Kirkconnel Splint Coal. These are important sites for studies of the Upper Carboniferous strata and provide valuable details of the early development of the Sanquhar Coalfield.