Hadleigh and Daws Heath Ancient Woodlands Living Landscape Project

Belfairs Proposed Woodland Resource Centre

Proposed Woodland Resource Centre
Louise Morris
A set of badgers
Louise Morris
Location of the Woodland Centre

Louise Morris, the Environmental Projects Manager for Southend Council wrote in 2011:
At the heart of the Hadleigh and Daws Heath Ancient Woodlands Living Landscape Project, is the Belfairs Woodland Resource Centre.  It is proposed that this building, incorporating sustainable design and energy efficient technology, is located on an area of amenity grassland in Belfairs Park.
The aim of the proposed Woodland Resource Centre is to provide a base from which events and activities can be launched. It will be run by Essex Wildlife Trust and will be open to the whole community, with many opportunities to explore, experience, learn about and enjoy the countryside.
In September 2010 we were successful in securing a development grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund towards a conservation management plan, consultation, design and planning.

A Conservation Management Plan is being written to examine land management in the Hadleigh and Daws Heath Living Landscape by reviewing existing management plans and information for
the area, along with on-the-ground surveying. We will then work with existing landowners to develop a workable and realistic 10 year plan to manage and maintain the conservation value of the land to the benefit of people and wildlife. This is a very important piece of work in an area where land has a high economic value but a delicate environmental balance and landowners need to be supported to ensure that they achieve the best from their land.

Preparation for a planning application includes a number of supporting documents being written. The design of the Woodland Resource Centre is the important part of the application and it is essential that we meet the requirements of both planning and our funders.  Planning approval is by no means a given, but with the tremendous support received to date for the project it is hoped that the plans will be accepted.  {Ed:  They were.}
Anyone looking to find out more about the Belfairs Project, or looking to support the project either financially or in other ways, can contact Louise Morris on 01702 215602 or email louisemorris@southend.gov.uk

No Comments

Start the ball rolling by posting a comment on this page!

Add a comment about this page

Your email address will not be published.