Friends of Ashenground and Bolnore Woods is made up of local people, including walkers, nature lovers, dog owners and family groups, interested in caring for the Woods. New members are always welcome. The group organises a regular programme of task days, nature walks and special interest events, monitors and influences development of the surrounding area, and promotes responsible use by local residents.
Task days involve work in the woodland, including coppicing, as well as more straightforward tasks such as litter picking. Flora and fauna surveys are carried out to monitor carefully any changes in species over time. Links with local schools and other developments are a key aspect of planning for the future. Regular newsletters are produced and contributions from members are always welcome.
Link to photograph of Members in new FoABW Yellow Fleeces
We now have a magnificant new gate at the bridge entrance to Ashenground Wood. This gate was designed by Stuart Meier of FoABW, who took historic models as his inspiration. It was built by craftsmen from Wholewoods using traditional techniques. You can read more about the project in the Summer/Autumn 2011 Newsletter - see the link to this publication on the 'Newsletters' page.
Link to photograph of New Gate
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Bolnore Village Development update
Crest are soon to start building work on Phase 4. They have informed us that the work on building the spine road across Phase 4 and through the Pinchpoint will start soon. We are continuing to monitor work and outstnding planning conditions. We are concerned that conditions are still outstanding regarding drainage (to protect the Great Spreading Oak) and the Ecological Management Plan (to secure the necessary funding for future ecological work on the buffer zones and Four Acre Wood). We are of course pleased that Crest are now providing all the necessary Ancient Woodland Buffer zones, including that for King Street Copse.
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For more information contact: Janice Tipping, 17 Pinewood Way, Haywards Heath, RH16 4JU. Tel: 07752 003529 or after 6.30 p.m. on 01444 414053.