Restoring the woods

The trails will help you to explore the woods

Planted over 40 years ago as a crop to feed the timber industry, the non-native western red cedar trees at Woodchester Park were reaching maturity and were ready to be harvested.

Specialist contractors felled a section of the cedar trees. These works were all part of the management of the woods and completed the cycle of why they were originally planted.

Tree felling is essential to keep the woods healthy
Tree felling is essential to keep the woods healthy
Tree felling is essential to keep the woods healthy

The harvested cedar has been put to good use. Some was used as material in the building industry while others provided bio-fuel for renewable energy projects. 

Woodland management plan

Back in 2018 we wrote a ten year Woodland Management Plan, which was approved by the Forestry Commission. Included in the plan was the work that was needed to return the park back to its original character.

Replanting the woods 

The removal of the cedar helps us to continue to restore the original character of the park. We'll be planting thousands of native broadleaf trees like beech, oak, hazel and cherry over the coming year. 

A young tree
A young tree
A young tree

Historic views have been re-opened and limestone grasslands that were lost when the cedar were planted are being returned. The grassland restorationwork will enhance the feeding grounds for the greater horseshoe bats that have made Woodchester their home.  

" The native broadleaf trees that we'll be planting will provide a much better habitat for wildlife and in years to come will also add to the amazing autumn colour in the park."
- Max Dancer, Area Ranger