Walkers exploring a forested zone in Sherwood Forest were astonished to find that trees had been felled in an area meant to remain untouched, reports indicate. Newark and Sherwood District Council has accepted that operatives unintentionally removed trees beyond the boundaries of their scheme designed to boost indigenous species at Intake Wood in Clipstone. The unwarranted tree clearance, now under scrutiny by official bodies, has provoked strong criticism from locals who had already grown angry about the widespread removal of pine trees.

A long-standing inhabitant voiced his incredulity, observing that others would be penalised for comparable conduct. He remarked that it was astonishing such operations proceeded without appropriate permissions. He stressed his exasperation, noting that workers had overstepped their authorised duties and inflicted considerable ecological harm. The resident additionally highlighted that despite the unlawful tree felling, the contractors were still allowed to proceed with their work just a few days subsequently.

The district council leader verified that inquiries were taking place concerning the unplanned clearing of trees positioned near the woodland’s westerly edge. A representative confirmed that a section had been cleared in violation of the sanctioned blueprint, and officials were establishing how this transpired. The council pledged to cooperate entirely with the Forestry Commission to comprehend the events and enact remedial action, while also assuring locals that they would receive updates on the inquiry’s progress. The Forestry Commission was invited to respond.

Intake Wood, located within the historic Sherwood Forest area, has been under council ownership since 2006, after previously being held by housing developers Vistry Group. Previously, the council leader had stressed that the initiative was vital to protect the woodland for coming generations. The programme entails substituting non-native Corsican Pine crops with broadleaf varieties including oak, ash, beech, and birch. Although operations began in November with a target completion date of May, intended as a measured transformation, the council leader observed that the removal of particular pines had amplified the likelihood of adjacent trees toppling onto nearby homes. Operatives were inspecting every tree for avian nests prior to felling and had sought guidance from Forestry Commission staff and ecological experts. Nevertheless, local residents characterised the speed and scale of the operations as deeply concerning, maintaining that certain trails had become dangerous, while also challenging why the work was arranged during the avian breeding season.