More than seventy supporters of Park Wood in Hellingly filled a meeting room last night (Wednesday) to hear about the future of an area of local Ancient woodland.
The Friends of Park Wood Hellingly held a public meeting and AGM to hear from experts and the current owners of 152 acres of woodland which has been put up for sale by the current owners, the Environment Agency.
Supporters heard how Park Wood has been registered as Ancient Woodland, as a majority of it has evidence of a 400 year history – less than 2% of the country is covered by Ancient woodland, according to Jim Smith-Wright from the Woodland Trust.
Mr. Smith-Wright told the meeting; “I conducted a survey in November last year and discovered there are some areas of concern such as evasive non-native species and the lack of woodland management and maintenance over some years which could have a long-term effect on the wood.”
He added; “Park Wood is thriving with archeological features and the community are extremely lucky to have it on their doorsteps.”
The Friends of Park Wood Hellingly is aiming to work alongside an agency such as the Woodland Trust if it was successful in securing the land, and make vital changes such as replacing footbridges, repairing the car park with a long-term aim of working with local schools and clubs to make use of the wood.
There are fears if the land is purchased by a private buyer, access to members of the public could be restricted, although it must remain open to the public and wildlife protected.
David Marlow from the Friends of Park Wood commented; “Through this period of uncertainty, we need to be active, engaged and work with the local councils and encourage as many people as possible to get behind our cause”.
Paul Rees from the Friends of Park Wood Hellingly told the meeting; “We have no intention of not succeeding to secure Park Wood for future generations to enjoy.”
Work is continuing to liaise with the Environment Agency to find a mutually acceptable deal. An Environment Agency spokesman has told Hailsham News; “We’re working with the Friends of Park Wood and others to reach a satisfactory outcome to all. The Environment Agency has a responsibility to the taxpayer to use public money wisely. We no longer obtain materials for coastal repairs from Park Wood, meaning it is no longer feasible for the agency to manage it.”
The Friends of Park Wood Hellingly currently has 250 members and is urging supporters to join them for £10 per year to help fund the flight. The group was set up in 2017 after the Environment Agency announced it was to sell Park Wood.
