Forestry Commission - News - focus on bourne woods

Forestry Commission rangers are set on finding out what Lincolnshire people think about one of the county’s favourite woodlands.

On Thursday and Sunday, August 21 and 31, they will be on hand in the car park in Bourne Woods to gather visitors’ views. The team will be available from 10.30am to 2.30pm on both days.Their survey is aimed at finding out how people want the woodland to be managed in future.

In the 1990s the site was still geared up to grow conifers for soft-wood timber production. But since 2000 it has undergone a gradual transformation back to its native broadleaf origins as part of the Forestry Commission’s seven-county Ancient Woodland Project.

The wood has always been a firm favourite with walkers. Among the features that attract them is a series of ponds at which abundant wildlife gathers, including herons and kingfishers.

There is also ample car parking and a picnic area near the woodland entrance off the A151 half a mile west of Bourne town. A large play area sits alongside them in which families can enjoy ball games. For people seeking healthy exercise there are trails for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Everyone who explores the woods will come across a number of sculptures.

Ranger Cheryl Joyce, said: “Most of the pieces were created in wood and designed to decay back into the soil. A few are now coming towards the end of their life-cycles. We’re keen to hear visitors’ thoughts on living with these artworks over the years. Some people will have walked past them almost every day. We also want to find out what people think of the other facilities in Bourne Woods and how they want the site to managed in future.”

Information about the survey can be obtained by ringing 01780 444920. Details about the Bourne Woods can also be found on the www.forestry.gov.uk/eastmidlands website.

NOTES TO EDITORS

For further information please contact Forestry Commission Ranger Miss Cheryl Joyce, on 01780 444920.