Tree Management; Thornley Wood
3/ Thornley Wood;
This access land was planted with conifers about 20 years ago and has never been managed or thinned. The stand is in such a poor state that it is hazardous, with many trees already blowing over. As a commercial crop it has no value and would be cleared. However, as amenity land, it may be possible to restore the woodland by slowly thinning (to allow the surviving stronger trees to develop better root strength) and by adding more deciduous trees to improve the appearance and biodiversity. This will improve the area as a wildlife habitat too. Once stabilised and made safe, Thornley Wood could be used as a recreation area. We are currently seeking an agreement for the management of the woodland by a wildlife charity.