Have your say on new woodland in North Devon

Forestry England has extended an invitation to local residents to share their views on new woodland creation plans for sites near Burriott and Ashwater in North Devon.

These plans are part of the initiative to create Coronation Woods, a project dedicated to celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

The newly acquired plots, totaling 110 hectares, will be transformed into diverse woodlands. Near Burriott, the new woodland will feature a mix of broadleaf and conifer species, complemented by open spaces designed for conservation and aesthetic appeal. 

The woodland at Quoditch, near Ashwater, aims to enhance nature conservation efforts on-site. 

Both areas will be managed by Forestry England to provide sustainably-grown timber, promote public access for recreation, and improve wildlife habitats.

Forestry England has made the draft designs available for public viewing online until 28 July:

• Quoditch Design
• Burriott Design

Additionally, public consultation events will be held to gather community feedback:

• Quoditch: Monday, 22 July, 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Ashwater Parish Hall, EX21 5EZ
• Burriott: Tuesday, 23 July, 4:00pm to 7:00pm at High Bickington Community Hall, EX37 9HG

Residents are encouraged to drop in anytime between 4pm and 7pm to view the proposed designs and engage with Forestry England staff.

Kevin Stannard, Forestry England’s forest management director in the west of England, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “I’m excited to share our proposals for these two new woodlands with the local people who will be most involved in their future. The sites are being designed to mitigate the challenges of our changing climate, while providing sustainably-grown timber products, access for people, andhavens for nature.

“We are keen to involve local communities in the design process so we can incorporate their needs and hopes for these woodlands. I hope community members will join us to explore the plans or have their say online.”

The Coronation Woodlands will contribute to Forestry England’s goal of creating 2,000 hectares of new woodland by 2026. 

For more information on how Forestry England is working to grow the nation’s forests, visit Forestry England.