KEY
MP    Management Planning Guidance and Framework
BAP  Biodiversity Action Plan
FRM  Forest Reproductive Material Regulations		 References. See Appendix for references which give further guidance.
Woodland design: creation, felling and replanting Close window
3.2 Location and design
FRM
BAP
MP
 3.2.1 Guidance

Requirement

New woodlands shall be located and designed in ways that will maintain or enhance the visual, cultural and ecological value and character of the wider landscape.

Means of verification

All woodlands:
  • Management planning documentation
  • Discussions with the owner/manager
  • Maps
  • Field observation.
Non-SLIM woodlands:
  • Design plan.

In particular, new woodlands should contribute to the conservation of neighbouring semi-natural woodland and other habitats.

Endangered habitats and sites for endangered species as given in the UK and local Biodiversity Action Plans should be avoided.

Where appropriate and possible, use natural regeneration or planting stock from parental material growing in the local native seed zone (native species) or region of provenance (non-native species).

MP 3.2.2 Guidance

Requirement

New planting shall be designed in such a way as to ensure the creation over time of a diverse woodland.

Means of verification

All woodlands:
  • Management planning documentation
  • Discussions with the owner/manager
  • Maps
  • Field observation.
Non-SLIM woodlands:
  • Design plan.

A diverse woodland may be achieved through one or more of the following:

  • Use of a diversity of species, clones and provenances
  • Planting mixed stands
  • Variation in site types and growth rates
  • Management designed to avoid need for felling over a very limited period
  • Phased planting
  • Retention of open ground
  • Design and creation of wind firm edges.
The general aim should be to create a woodland that is sufficiently diverse to allow achievement of the felling rates given in section 3.4.2.
MP
 3.2.3 Guidance

Requirement

Even-aged woodlands shall be gradually restructured to diversify ages and habitats.

Means of verification

All woodlands:
  • Management planning documentation
  • Discussions with the owner/manager
  • Maps
  • Field observation.
Non-SLIM woodlands:
  • Design plan.

Restructuring should be planned and implemented in accordance with FC Practice Guide, Forest Design Planning – A Guide to Good Practice.
MP 3.2.4 Guidance

Requirement

Where appropriate, contact shall be made with the owners of adjoining woodlands to try to ensure that restructuring of one woodland complements and does not jeopardise the management of adjoining ones.

Means of verification

  • Letter or other records of communication with the owners/managers of adjoining woodlands.
It is recognised that the owners of neighbouring woodlands may not be known, and in such cases the owners/managers should be able to show that they have considered likely impacts on their neighbours.