A MAJOR operation designed to ensure the long term well being of Pitcheroak Wood is being undertaken by Redditch borough council.
The work, sanctioned by the Forestry Commission and a specialist woodland consultant, includes thinning out the trees so the better formed ones are given the space to allow them to develop and become fully mature tree.
A spokesperson said: “We also aim to maintain as wide a species range as possible. The increased light to ground level encourages natural regeneration of trees from ground seed stock and ground flora, widening the bio diversity and habitat value of the site.
“The brash tops are left to lie on the ground to rot down, returning important nutrients to the site as well as providing a habitat and cover for ground wildlife such as hedgehogs.
“This is essential work to ensure the longevity and quality of the woodland and there is no aim to gain any profit from it. The intention is to be nil cost to the tax payer and council as much of the work is funded via Forestry Commission Grant Funding as well as a small amount made from the sale of any timber.
“However, the level of work to be undertaken is always assessed to ensure the management aims and the quality of the woodland is the main priority rather than revenue.”
He added that the work is being carried out now so as not to disturb birds nesting and minimising the impact on ground flora.
“We will ensure the main path network is open again once the work is finished and repairs to any damage on the pathways and any immediately local ruts within the tree line will be completed once ground conditions are suitable to achieve a good resulting finish,” he said.
