Hyde Wood

Published: 22 July 2024

We, and Chloe Turner as Minchinhampton district councillor, have been in touch with the Foresty Commission who are the governing authority. They advise that they have issued both a licence to thin the woodlands (removal of 30% of canopy, evenly distributed across the site) and, importantly, a licence which permits felling in groups. They advise that "the patches of hillside visible are coupes of felling termed ‘regeneration fell/selection fell’ – in this case the landowner is targeting pockets of the woodland with a high percentage of ash".

The responsible Woodland Officer also advises that the site has been inspected and he deems the work to be acceptable and compliant with the Forestry Commission's sustainable woodland management policy, the United Kingdom Forestry Standard, and their operations note for tackling ash dieback in woodlands.
The Woodland Officer further advises that he would like to reassure us that all of their felling licences come with conditions to restock the woodland with trees, so that precious woodland resource is not lost. In this instance, he advises that natural regeneration is being safeguarded and promoted, alongside direct planting of native broadleaves. The intention by poking holes in the canopy here and there is to be able to introduce a greater range of tree species, diversify the canopy’s physical structure and increase the range of age classes, all of which are factors that contribute to a much more resilient and sustainable woodland ecosystem.

Many residents are also concerned by the regular burning of the freshly felled foliage and smaller branches which is generating much smoke and we are in contact with the Environmental Protection Team at Stroud District Council concerning this.  The Public Rights of Way Officer at GCC is in contact with the landowner concerning the repair and restoration of any affected footpaths.