Description

A medium to fine-grained, predominantly bioclastic wackestone and packstone with sporadic peloids; generally and characteristically intensely bioturbated and consequently poorly bedded, although better bedded, commonly somewhat arenaceous units occur in places, particularly in the upper part. Generally bluish grey when fresh, but weathers to olive or yellowish brown. Thin argillaceous partings or interbeds of calcareous mudstone may occur.

 

The name of the rock relates specifically to its suitability for arable farming and was coined in the 18th century. Although of very limited value for building, the Cornbrash has been quarried for aggregate, for example at the Shorncote Quarry in the Cotswold Water Park

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Environment of Deposition

The depositional environment for the Cornbrash represents a marine transgression at the close of the Bathonian.  An increasingly energetic environment.

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Upper Boundary

The boundary between the shelly-based mudstone of the Kellaways Formation is usually sharp and comformable with the bioclastic limestone of the Cornbrash.

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Lower Boundary

Generally sharp, disconformable non-sequence: bioclastic limestone resting upon mudstone (and bioclastic ooidal limestones, locally) of the Forest Marble Formation. 

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Thickness

2 - 4 m

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Contribution to landscape:

Gently rolling and undulating landscape.          

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BGS Reference Section (not accessible by the public):

Shipton-on-Cherwell Cement Works Quarry, 4.4km northnorthwest of Kidlington, Oxfordshire. Full sequence exposed, up to about 3m.