Cadora Woods – Restoring precious ancient woodland

Cadora Woods contained a significant area of plantation on ancient woodland, due to extensive felling and planting with non native conifers. The dense coniferous canopy threatens the long term existence of native species and habitats by creating a dark environment where it is very difficult for them to survive. This project aims to sensitively restore 10 hectares of non-native plantation, in an extremely steep area, back to its broadleaved character by thinning the planted conifers allowing light to gradually penetrate the wood floor, encouraging natural regeneration of native shrub layers. Opening up the wood in this way will enhance the local landscape and create the opportunity for ancient woodland species and habitats to be protected and flourish.