20A Spring Lane Great Horwood Buckinghamshire MK17 0QW

Proposal

This initial proposal is to cut back the canopies of the 3-4 Horse chestnuts shown, perhaps pollarding down to3m as they are interlocking and causing damage to each other. This would allow light in to ground level and generate healthy growth for added biodiversity whilst we plan the next best action for the fully biodiverse area of 50mx15m. The full area is a small wooded area comprising a mixture of woodland trees, mostly non native, planted around 25 years ago, but never thinned to optimise biodiversity. We would like to introduce native species over the next few years replacing some of the current trees. On the 5 yr management sketch attached, trees t1-t9 could be felled to make a more aesthetic and amenity friendly area. A hedgerow along one short edge is proposed comprising blackthorn and a mix of appropriate whips as well as a field maple and other native species to create a great and balanced wildlife habitat. Also a pond is shown and proposed. Overall some enhancements are planned without harming the existing feel of the wooded area to provide a biodiverse environment to enjoy.