Parish Council Proposal to Buy Woodland - Residents' feedback sought

Fernwood Parish Council propose to purchase the woodland behind Fernwood Day Nursery to Denny Close/Pine Close. This land has been privately owned by a local business since 2012 although the area contains footpaths that the residents of Fernwood use. The Parish Council see the following benefits to purchasing the land:

• The footpath and streetlights can be better maintained

• The trees can be managed/preserved to keep them safe for Fernwood residents (using specialist advice)

• The Council can maintain the area in a way which is best for maintaining the natural habitat for flora and fauna (using expert advice) • The Council will consult with residents for ideas for the woods. Ideas include bat box making and a local action group.

The precept will not need to be increased for the Council to purchase or maintain the area. The Council has received Community Infrastructure Levy funding from local developments which will cover the costs of this.

Fernwood Parish Council seeks feedback from residents regarding this area.

Use the link below to complete a questionnaire regarding this proposal: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdAsxNDtnALkmTho9dA850n_NljRf754kagy_qKvq_FlT_0A/viewform?usp=sf_link

The consultation will finish on Sunday 17th January 2021.