Site closure on Wednesday 30 September for essential tree safety works

The hotter, drier conditions we've seen in recent years are placing increasing pressure on some trees. As a result, we're carrying out essential work to remove affected trees near the visitor centre and keep the site safe for everyone to enjoy. 

Long periods without enough water can weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests, diseases and structural problems. Forestry England has a robust tree safety inspection schedule, prioritising the places where people could be affected more such as car parks, cafes and recreation facilities. During our inspections we identified several trees needed removing around our main visitor centre area. 

To carry out this work safely, we have had to take the difficult decision to close Cannock Chase Forest to visitors on Wednesday 30 September as we must close our car parks, toilets and other visitor facilities to keep staff, contractors and visitors safe.  

This is another example of why cutting down trees can be a good thing when done responsibly; it is part of sustainable forest management where tree safety, timber production, and pests and diseases are all part of the job.  

But as our climate continues to change, we hope you’ll be reassured to hear that Forestry England is already adapting the way we care for forests so that they remain healthy, resilient and welcoming places for people and wildlife for generations to come. 

Our Forest Resilience Strategy is being implemented with practical action on the ground, helping to make sure our forests remain fit for the future. You can read more about this work here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/nature-wildlife/forests-for-the-future