| Background and site description |
|
The ancient semi-natural woodland is designated as an SSSI covering 140 ha. ARC acquired the site and the adjacent Asham Quarry in the mid 1980s. The company has since surrendered the right to work the woodland area.
|
|
| Initiative |
|
In conjunction with English Nature, ARC undertook the largest coppice regeneration project in Somerset. On-going management includes fencing against deer (with EN funding), deer management, tree felling, ride clearance, etc. Thirteen hectares are leased to Somerset Wildlife Trust, which manages the woodland as a reserve and runs its own coppice management programme.
|
|
| Costs |
|
- Management costs offset against the sale of timber and timber products (eg thatching spars), and against a sporting let.
- By managing the woodland as a commercial landowner, nature conservation costs are included within broader land management costs – for instance, ARC has a company forester responsible for some of the work, and a full-time land agent responsible for some of the land holdings.
|
|
| Benefits |
|
- ARC promotes its image as a responsible landowner, and runs the East Mendip Study Centre at Whatley.
- The company generates an income from its landownings.
- Asham Quarry, within the site, is being used for disposal of overburden from the nearby quarry at West Down.
|
|
| Contribution to biodiversity |
|
As an SSSI, Asham Wood represents one of the finest examples of ancient semi-natural woodland in the Mendips. The on-going management of such an important site by a mineral operator fulfils criteria in both the UK and Local BAPs. Such a flagship site offers considerable promotional potential for the minerals industry as a whole, as well as demonstrating partnership and monitoring initiatives.
|
|
| Contact |
|
Mendip District Council
Biodiversity Officer
Mendip District Council
Cannards Grave Road
Shepton Mallet
Somerset BA4 5BT
customerservices@mendip.gov.uk
01749 648999
|
