WORCESTERSHIRE is being encouraged to take a look at plans for a new woodland in the north of Malvern Hills district.
Plans include the creation of a 14,000 tree strong woodland across 24-acres off Stocks Road in Alfrick Pound, near to the Knapp and Papermill Nature Reserve.
The project is a collaboration between Prime plc, a developer of health and care property, and Tilhill Forestry, a woodland consultancy.
Prime is seeking permission from the Forestry Commission to develop the new woodland area and wants to gather interest from local residents on the project.
Detailed proposals include long-term intentions for the land, the mix of planting and how new growth will be protected.
Plans allow for 3.21 hectares of broadleaf woodland, 3.02 hectares of conifer woodland and 1.49 hectares of lower density scrub land with open areas.
In total 14,000 trees will be planted, including a mix of oak, cherry and birch trees.
The whole site will be surrounded by deer fencing to protect the new growth from being stripped of bark and leaves, and allowing for the use of smaller protective tubes for the initial growth period.
Our neighbours will be factored into our planting designs, with trees planted more densely at the centre of the land and more sparsely near the perimeter, to retain a clearer view across the woodland.
An existing public right of way through the site will be retained with plans to improve the experience for walkers travelling through the site.
Heather Alexander, community engagement manager at Prime, said: “We’re excited to share our plans for expanding tree planting in our woodland.
“If we receive approval from the Forestry Commission, we hope to begin planting in the autumn when conditions are ideal for tree survival.
“Our intention is for the planting to take place over a three-month period, alongside improvements to the entrance and installation of new fencing.
“In the meantime, we’ll continue vital maintenance in the orchard to support the health of our veteran trees and improve the habitat.”
Visit www.primeplc.com/alfrick for more information.
