Latest status of redevelopment work at Salcey
As Salcey Forest enters a new era, there is lots going on, with different works taking place on the site. This page is to share the latest status of these works.
To find out more about what works are taking place, and why, visit the project page.
Updates from The Glade
Expected completion: June 2023.
In December 2022 the Treetop Walkway was dismantled and removed. More than 95% of the materials were taken to a recycling plant, resulting in less than one skip of material that couldn't be reused.
Contractors then started work in early March 2023 on the creation of the new Glade visitor area where the Treetop Walkway previously stood. The path is the first part we've completed. It starts by the Elephant Bridge and then snakes its way through The Glade, passing one of the ponds and then finishing by the Church Path Oak. Next will come the construction of the Event Shelter, which is being built out of green oak felled from Salcey Forest, making this VERY locally sourced timber.
Whilst works are underway, there are diversions in place to allow the contractors to work safely, so please follow all safety signage and any instructions from Forestry England staff or contractors.
Updates from Elephant Bridge
Expected completion: June 2023.
The Elephant Bridge is being transformed into the new gateway entrance to The Glade.
What makes this work extra special is that the oak timber needed for the refurbishment will be sourced directly from Salcey Forest.
In January, the oaks to provide the timber were identified, measured and felled. These logs have now been milled on site, so are ready to install.
In late March, the Bridge ‘strip down’ began. Contractors are using a special pontoon to enable self working.
In April the old French oak was stripped away, the bridge repaired via the pontoons, and the new bridge constructed from the Salcey Forest-sourced green oak.
Updates on the Gruffalo
Completed: May 2023.
In January 2023 our specialist sculptor started carving this spectacular creation. In May 2023 the finished Gruffalo sculpture was transported to and installed at Salcey Forest, ready for visitors to meet him when The Glade area is completed and open to the public. A new, accessible path will allow as many people as possible to find him in the deep, dark wood.
Updates on Salcey's new play facilities
Completed: February 2023.
In January 2023 our contractor, Green Play Project, started work to remove the old structures and begin installing the new equipment.
The work - which has seen a much bigger play area created near the cafe, plus some improvement works to our Play Hut area - was completed in February 2023 just in time for the schools breaking up for half term.
See the gallery below for photos of the new equipment or download the plans to see some of the exciting features we now have on offer.
Plans for Salcey's new forest play area
Go Ape at Salcey Forest
We are working with our partners at Go Ape to bring a brand new Tree Top Junior course to Salcey Forest.
There are many ecological and historically sensitive factors that we have to ensure will be protected and not harmed by such a facility coming to Salcey. A formal planning application for this proposal is currently with West Northants Council.
