Closes 19 February 2023
Closes 24 February 2023
Closes 2 March 2023
Closed 31 January 2023
Closed 3 January 2023
Closed 29 November 2022
Closed 30 September 2022
Closed 30 July 2022
Here are some of the issues we have consulted on and their outcomes. See all outcomes
The external consultation for the Bristol Woods forest plan was open for five weeks in April / May 2022. Posters at the main entrances to each of the publicly accessible woods directed people to an online survey.
The majority of the 87 respondents to the survey were recreational users of the woods. There was also useful feedback from national and local organisations including Natural England, Historic England and Abbots Leigh Wildlife Group.
Positive comments included:
“I feel the plan addresses natural capital regeneration, species diversity and climate change mitigation very well.”
“It seems to me that the plan is excellent and balances the priorities of biodiversity, timber production and amenity.”
Some concerns were raised - these are listed below.
The actions relating to Leigh Court registered park and garden are a bit vague and it isn’t clear how they have been decided.
Forestry England’s response:
People / organisations with an interest in biodiversity provided some really useful feedback:
Forestry England’s response:
There were some questions about pests and diseases.
Forestry England’s response:
There were several comments from mountain bikers:
Forestry England’s response:
Other comments and suggestions, including offers from potential volunteers have been passed onto the local beat team, who will contact individuals and groups as and when appropriate.
For feedback on our plans to fell larch trees in Ennerdale in response to Phytophthora Ramorum.
Various concerns were raised about the plans including timber transport, future production, access during the operations and communications plans.
Questions were collated and a response document is viewable on the Wild Ennerdale website.
The external consultation for Friston was open for six weeks in October / November 2021. Posters were put up at entrances, directing people to an online survey and providing contact details for any further queries.
There were 21 responses in total via the online consultation in addition to several responses from statutory and non-statutory organisations. Overall, the plan was met favourably, with 57% classing it as well or very well addressing their needs. Less than 5% considered it to poorly meet their needs. The primary interests of respondents focussed on woodland ecology and the balance of people and nature.
The responses will be further considered and factored into the plan where possible. Several of the specific suggestions relating to balancing human use of the forest go beyond what the forest plan is designed for; however, these will nonetheless be considered a priority area for discussion and action over the coming months and years. Forestry England is committed to ensuring the sustainable use of the nation's forests and recognises that this often requires active management. Based off the feedback provided from this consultation the management will be reviewed.
This forest plan has now been submitted to the Forestry Commission for further scrutiny and approval.