In a concerted effort to safeguard and restore one of the county’s largest ancient woodlands, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust hosted a tree planting event at Great Wood near Grittenham at the end of January. The significant planting programme is a key component of the Trust’s broader initiative to rejuvenate this vital natural habitat.
Ancient woodlands, accounting for only 2.5% of the country, face increasing threats. Great Wood, covering 175 acres, stands as one of Wiltshire’s 20 largest ancient woodlands. Recognising its ecological significance, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust secured the woodland in early 2023, rescuing it from potentially harmful commercial management.
At the tree planting event, attended by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust staff, trustees, and key stakeholders, including representatives from primary funder Biffa Award, local MP James Grey, and Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Victoria Nye, participants planted rowan and cherry trees. This event marked the beginning of a comprehensive tree-planting programme designed to breathe new life into Great Wood.
The restoration project, initiated in autumn 2023, aims to replace coniferous areas with native broadleaf trees, fostering new woodland glades and providing optimal conditions for the growth of rare wild service trees. These efforts align with the Trust’s commitment to nature’s recovery, promoting biodiversity, and creating a sustainable environment for both wildlife and people.
Ecological surveys at Great Wood have unveiled exciting discoveries, including brown hairstreak butterfly eggs, potentially marking the first time this species has been found south of the M4 in North Wiltshire. The wood holds immense potential for the return of various species, including nightingales, nightjars, and purple emperor butterflies. The Trust is also considering the reintroduction of wood white butterflies, currently absent from Wiltshire.
Volunteers have been actively removing invasive plants to enhance woodland health, while the widening of rides and diversification of the understorey aim to attract a broader range of wildlife. Increased light reaching the woodland floor will also encourage the revival of bluebell carpets.
James Ravine, Head of Fundraising, Marketing & Communications at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, expressed enthusiasm for the restoration project, emphasising its alignment with the Trust’s broader strategy to manage 30% of land for nature in Wiltshire and Swindon by 2030.
Stewart Goshawk, Biffa Award Chair, highlighted the significance of saving Great Wood, acknowledging the Trust’s vital role in protecting this rare habitat. The generous funding from Biffa Award, major donors, and contributors to the Trust’s appeal has facilitated the purchase and ongoing restoration of Great Wood.
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is now urging for continued support through a fresh appeal, aiming to raise an additional £30,000 to unlock Great Wood’s full potential for wildlife and people. Those interested in contributing can donate at www.wiltshirewildlife.org/great-wood-appeal.
