Addressing local queries on the work at Intake Wood in Clipstone

What are we doing? 

Firstly, we share the view of the community that this site is a valuable asset. It is covered by a Tree Preservation Order which means it must remain as woodland, and we want to ensure it is protected for generations to come. 

The woodland is a mature plantation of non-native trees (Corsican Pine) which we are transitioning to broadleaf woodland typical of the ancient Sherwood Forest Landscape.

We aim to conduct this transition slowly through selective thinning where possible, however safety concerns were raised about the size of a number of trees which were on a slope close to a row of houses. Corscian Pine is vulnerable to strong winds which can cause trees to uproot and fall. Thinning these areas only increases the risk, so the decision was made on safety grounds to remove the pine trees adjacent to the houses and replant with a native tree mix.

Works started on site in November and the final works are due to be completed by the end of April. The contractors undertaking the work are professionals with extensive experience, and work in line with national guidance. Please be assured they are also conducting checks for nest birds in each tree before starting any works.

Why is this happening?

Intake Woods is filled largely of non-native trees at an age where they are already reaching their life expectancy and are a risk to people and nearby buildings.  

While the majority of the work we will be doing is thinning the trees back and replanting native species, there are areas where the trees could potentially fall onto nearby properties. With the recent strong winds and the unpredictability of British weather, we need to take some felling work throughout April to keep resident safety a priority. 

We have looked at every option available including trimming down this section but unfortunately that would pose further risk as it would increase the trees instability making them even more likely to fall.  

As a District Council, we need to put the safety of our residents first and take action to fell a strip of trees to prevent potential future risk to people's safety.

These trees will be replaced with native trees more in keeping with the local area and will fit with the wider Sherwood Forest environment.   

We’re aware that the works look quite drastic, but it is essential to keep the area safe and to reintroduce native tree species.  

Working with the experts

The Council has sought advice and support throughout this process. Pre discussions were held with officers from the Forestry Commission and other environmental professionals on the best way to proceed before submitting the felling licence for Forestry Commission approval.

Will wildlife and access to the woods be protected? 

Yes. Work of this scale is always bit messy with some paths needing to be closed temporarily; however, we ask that site users be assured every effort will be made to keep routes open. Please obey any diversion or closer notices to protect yourself and others. 

Once the works are complete, we will be working to restore the pathways to a good standard. 

Restoration works will be conducted on the footpaths and trails and felled areas will be replanted with a native tree mix. These replacement trees have deeper roots than the Corsican Pine and will make the site safer for the neighbouring homes and the replacement species provide a better habitat for our native wildlife.

Animal welfare such as birds and nests will be appropriately evaluated and our qualified contractor will take the necessary steps to ensure they are protected.   

We’ve had signs up notifying nearby residents of the work sense October last year and if you require further information, please contact the District Council on 01636 650 000 or email customerservices@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk.