Ancient woodland to be given helping hand for regeneration

A wood on the North York Moors which dates back more than 400 years is due to return to its historic roots.

A major programme of restoration work will be carried out at the West Arncliffe and Park Hole Woods at Glaisdale, near Whitby, as part of a national drive to improve some of Britain’s most precious forests.

Thousands of densely-planted western hemlock conifers which were planted during the 20th century will be axed in the 110-acre woodland to allow trees such as sessile oak to regenerate.

The site dates back to at least 1600 and is a key habitat for wildlife and plants, including rare ferns and grasses.

Stewart Bates, who bought the wood eight years ago, said: “Removing the western hemlock will be a major boost, piercing the gloom with nourishing sunlight and preventing plants like the ferns from being shaded out.

“The wood is an oasis of calm which on a sunny day is a delight to the senses. It will be immensely satisfying watching it regain its full vigour.”

A survey carried out eight years ago revealed that nearly half of England’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) land area was in a poor condition, prompting a major drive to improve the habitats.

The Forestry Commission joined forces with Natural England to revive key woodland sites in the region using its grant schemes, and 40,000 has now been allocated for the work on the North York Moors.

The Government has set a goal of getting 95 per cent of the SSSI area into a “favourable condition” by the end of the year.