Conservationists warn of housing development 'threat' to ancient woodland

Published by Jon Land for 24dash.com in Environment and also in Housing

New housing, roads and other developments built too near ancient woodlands can have "devastating impacts" on the UK's equivalent of the rainforest, campaigners warned today.

Research from the Woodland Trust showed that even if action is taken to avoid destruction of ancient woods themselves, new buildings, transport links, quarries and leisure activities can still harm neighbouring woods and wildlife.

Ancient woodland sites, almost half of which are smaller than five hectares, are vulnerable to pollution from chemicals and increased risk of invasive non-native species if development occurs near them.

And while planning authorities are increasingly acting to prevent destruction of woodlands which are hundreds of years old, developments can destroy semi-natural areas between the sites and create large areas unsuitable for wildlife.

As a result, habitat suitable for wildlife, including rare species, is more fragmented making it harder for them to move, forage for food and breed, the Woodland Trust said.

Wildlife is also affected by problems such as noise, litter and an increased likelihood of being hit by cars if development goes ahead near their home.

The Woodland Trust, which works to conserve the UK's woods, called for more attention to ancient woodland sites when development is planned and for "buffer" zones to protect the habitat from human activities.

Ed Pomfret, head of campaigns for the Woodland Trust comments: "The Trust isn't against all development, but even when a road or housing estate doesn't directly cut down trees it can have a devastating impact on the neighbouring wood.

"Ancient woods have been there for centuries and it is a matter of basic respect that our desire for new development allows the wood to live on."

He urged: "Ancient woodland is irreplaceable, the UK's equivalent of the rainforest and we must do everything we can to ensure its protection."