Woodland Trust / Management Plan

The plan outlines P&TGRS’s vision for the future of the woodland and sets out a series of management objectives developed in partnership with the Forestry Commission, our consultant John Morris, Mike Morley (P&TGRS Woodlands Manager), and Nicola Hooper  (Chair, P&TGRS Woodlands Committee).

A summary of the plan follows:

Woodland Management Plan Overview

• The plan is authored by John Morris and Mike Morley, with a case reference of 1484189.
• It covers a ten-year period from 29/10/2025 to 29/10/2035, with a five-year review set for October 2030.
• The plan aims to balance social, economic, and environmental objectives in woodland management. ​

Long-term Vision

• The vision focuses on protecting and enhancing the ancient woodland’s biodiversity and providing safe public access. ​
• The management will align with the charitable aims of the Penn & Tylers Green Residents Society (P&TGRS) and commitments to the Heritage Lottery Fund. ​
• The plan emphasizes recreation and education opportunities for local communities.

Management Objectives

• Objectives include controlled public access, maintaining amenity wood, benefiting biodiversity through selective thinning, and controlling invasive species.
• The plan aims to generate income from various sources, including timber sales, subscriptions to Friends of Common Wood and other donations, as well as government grants where available. ​
• It seeks to improve woodland resilience against climate change and manage the woodland sustainably according to UK Forestry Standards. ​

Achievements and Monitoring

• The document outlines the need for a five-year review to assess achievements against objectives. ​
• Monitoring will include visual inspections for tree safety, biodiversity surveys, and control of invasive species.
• Indicators of success will be established for each management objective, with assessments conducted regularly. ​

Stakeholder Engagement

• The plan identifies key stakeholders, including the Forestry Commission, Woodland Trust, and local councils. ​
• Engagement with these organizations is crucial for effective woodland management and conservation efforts. ​
• Feedback from stakeholders will be incorporated into the management plan.

Threats and Risks

• The document identifies potential threats such as ash dieback, invasive species, and deer populations.
• A risk assessment matrix is included to evaluate the likelihood and impact of these threats. ​
• Management responses include monitoring, control measures, and developing management plans for specific threats.

Habitat and Biodiversity

• Common Wood is classified as ancient semi-natural woodland, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. ​
• The plan highlights the importance of maintaining habitat diversity and the presence of veteran trees. ​
• Biodiversity indicators include various species of birds, mammals, and plants, with ongoing surveys needed to monitor changes.

Management Strategies

• Specific management intentions are outlined for each objective, including tree safety inspections and selective thinning. ​
• The plan emphasizes the importance of retaining veteran trees and managing invasive species effectively. ​
• Strategies for generating income from timber sales and securing funding for woodland maintenance are also discussed. ​

Conclusion

• The Woodland Management Plan for Common Wood is a comprehensive document aimed at sustainable management and conservation. ​
• It addresses various aspects of woodland management, including biodiversity, stakeholder engagement, and risk assessment. ​
• The plan serves as a framework for future actions and ensures the long-term health and accessibility of Common Wood.

Woodland Trust

As well as being the freehold owner of Common Wood, the Woodland Trust is also our key adviser and supporter, assisting us by sharing its expertise and knowledge of best practice.