Leigh Woods is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. We are working here during winter 2025. This page provides more information about the work we're doing.
What is happening?
In part of the forest overlooking the Avon Gorge, we are restoring a type of woodland called Tilio-acerion. This type of woodland includes a particular mix of tree species that is why the Avon Gorge Woodlands are a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). We are removing selected trees to restore this area to small-leaved lime coppice. There are old small-leaved lime coppice stools (stumps) in this area that will benefit from the space we create and the reduced competition for water, light, and nutrients. This work is part of the MetroWest project, which is working to re-open the Portishead rail line to passengers.
What is coppicing?
Coppicing is when certain tree species are cut close to the base, where they regrow multiple stems. Coppicing is a very old and traditional woodland management practice that also creates ideal habitat for many species of forest wildlife, including dormouse and butterflies. In years to come, we’ll be able to harvest the coppice timber to continue this sustainable cycle and preserve the heritage practice.
Can I still visit Leigh Woods?
The most important thing for Forestry England is to keep the public, our staff, and contractors safe.
The forest is still open for you to visit but some tracks are diverted so we can work safely. Please follow all signs and instructions at all times. These are for your safety, whether or not you can see or hear us working. This will help us to finish working as quickly as possible.
Forestry work is very hazardous. A falling tree can weigh several tonnes and hit the ground at nearly 60mph. If a harvesting machine chainsaw snaps, it can fly through the forest like a bullet. There might also be material caught up in the canopy. Never enter a working forestry site.
What about the wildlife?
Harvesting trees is an important part of sustainable forest management and well managed forests support more wildlife. Before we start any forestry work, we carry out thorough ecological surveys to check for species such as birds, mammals, rodents, invertebrates, flora, and fungi. This enables us to identify ecological constraints such as the presence of European Protected Species and Schedule 1 protected birds, which affect the time of year when certain operations can be carried out. For example, Leigh Woods has important populations of dormice and butterflies due to our sustainable management.
We consider our findings against complex factors including tree health, how the ground slopes, soil condition, and likely rainfall when planning forestry work. While working, we continue to check for wildlife and adapt, pause, or suspend work if necessary.
Where can I find out more?
You can read our full forest plan for Leigh Woods online. If you have any questions about our work in the Forest, please email us.