Lower Haywood

Due to the high incidence of Ash Dieback (ADB) and the extensive path network in Lower Haywood Plantation, the Trust has taken the difficult decision to fell the majority of the Ash trees within the plantation.

These forestry works are being carried out to improve the woodland conditions. ADB is disease of ash trees caused by an airborne fungus. The symptoms of ADB are leaf loss, crown die back and lesions on the stem. Once the tree has been infected with ADB it is often fatal, directly or indirectly by secondary infection by other pathogens such as Honey fungus. By removing the trees before they die, we can protect walkers, cyclists and horse riders from the risks of falling trees and branches.

The works are part of a 10 year plan to improve woodlands throughout the Gorge.
Please avoid walking in the woods whilst the work is ongoing, stay vigilant, and follow signs/directions from contractors.

We will retain Ash trees where possible, for instance those trees which are showing signs of resistance to the disease, this includes the majority of the trees along the powerlines, or where failure of the tree will present limited hazard to the public.

While this work is being undertaken primarily for public safety, it will increase sunlight to the woodland floor. This flood of light will be great for ground flora, invertebrates and the bats, butterflies and birds that feed on them. Additionally leaving some logs and brash will create deadwood habitat for invertebrates and fungi as they decay into the natural carbon cycle.

Benthall Edge

The work will increase the structural diversity of the woodland and allow more light to reach the woodland floor. Ground flora, bats and birds will all benefit from this work.

The work is undertaken as part of our Forestry Commission approved management plan for the Benthall SSSI woodland and is funded by DEFRA’s Countryside Stewardship Scheme.

For everyone’s safety, please obey all signs and directions during this work.

Sutton Wood

We will also be conducting woodland condition improvement at Sutton Wood through some thinning, this gives the remaining trees more space and light to grow.

The work will increase the structural diversity of the woodland and allow more light to reach the woodland floor. Ground flora, bats and birds will all benefit from this work.