An Ancient Woodland and County Wildlife Site (CWS) in Strumpshaw has been purchased by Buckenham Ancient Woodland Trust (BAWT) thanks to funding from the Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB) and Broadland District Council.
Councillor Sue Holland, Leader of Broadland District Council and Chair of the GNGB said: “The purchase of the woodland will safeguard this valuable green space for future generations. Buckenham Wood is a vital green asset, highly valued by local residents for recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature and this project will ensure the woodland’s long-term health and accessibility for people living in the village and the surrounding area.”
BAWT has received £104,000 funding from the GNGB’s Infrastructure Investment Fund to deliver a comprehensive 5-year Woodland Management Programme, starting in April 2025. This programme will significantly enhance the biodiversity of Buckenham Wood while improving public access.
The Woodland Management Programme includes the following elements:
• Holistic Woodland Strategy: Development of a 20-year strategy, including up to 200-year management plans for individual ancient and veteran trees, incorporating a survey and public consultation.
• Woodland Management Plan: Creation of a 10-year plan, including a felling license and access assessment, compartmentalising the woodland for targeted management, also incorporating a public consultation.
• Woodland Management Works: Implementation of the management plan, including canopy enhancement, restoration of the northern boundary footpath (addressing bluebell damage), and public access improvements.
• Tree Inspections and Safety Works: Regular Visual Tree Assessments (VTA) and necessary safety works, prioritized in the early years due to previous lack of management.
• Woodland Monitoring Programme: Monitoring of species diversity and abundance (plants, ferns, fungi, butterflies, moths, birds, bats) and public usage to inform management practices, utilizing methods such as camera traps and people counters.
• Green Infrastructure and Equipment: Installation of vandal-proof interpretation boards, deer fencing, secure fencing for a fly-tip area, a bicycle stand, and rustic benches.
• Project Coordinator: Appointment of a part-time project coordinator to oversee the programme.
The overarching goal of this project is to enhance Buckenham Wood’s biodiversity while improving access for the local community. This acquisition prevents the land from going to open market and ensures its preservation.
BAWT secured the necessary funds through the Pride in Place Community Grant Fund, awarded by Broadland District Council, and matched by Green Infrastructure S106 funds.
The Greater Norwich Growth Board is a unique partnership made up of Broadland District Council, South Norfolk Council, Norwich City Council, Norfolk County Council.
