The site is also home to several plant species, including rare orchids and evening primrose, particularly in areas that were previously filled with ash from the Westwood Power Station.

[1][3] Before the impact of coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the land around the Wigan Flashes was primarily agricultural, with patches of mossland.

Subsidence caused by mining operations led to the formation of large depressions in the land, which subsequently filled with water.

During the mid-20th century, parts of the site were used as industrial waste disposal areas, including the deposition of ash from the now-demolished Westwood Power Station.

Despite this, natural regeneration has allowed the site to develop into an ecologically valuable area, recognized for its biodiversity and conservation importance.