Yorkshire

Ash Plantation - awarded £4,500

Ash Plantation is small woodland in the heart of the extensive North Bransholme Council Estate in Yorkshire. Although surrounded by houses, the wood was seldom visited due to it being in a state of neglect. The project restored the wood by removing rubbish, creating an easy access trail, planting woodland wild flowers and trees.

The residents helped shape the project by highlighting issues that they felt were causing a barrier to the wood being accessible. The main issues included dangerous trees, litter, vandalism to trees and restricted access. With the help of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust they also organised a number of activities to ensure that the community were regularly involved in the wood’s restoration.

The improvements have encouraged more people to use the site and provided an important resource for the area. Schools and the Wildlife Trust are now using the wood to teach environmental education. A long-term management plan is being produced for the wood to continue to restore the habitats and ensure the wood’s continued survival for generations to come.