Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations Management Plan 2005 - 2010

BIRCH WOOD AND WARREN VALE PLANTATIONS MANAGEMENT PLAN 2005 - 2010

Contents

1.1 General Information...... 4 1.1.1 Location...... 4 1.1.2 Ownership information...... 4 1.1.3 Formal designation and constraints ...... 4 1.1.4 General site description...... 5 1.2 Environmental information...... 6 1.2.1 Physical ...... 6 (a) Hydrology...... 6 (b) Topography...... 6 (c) Geology...... 6 (d) Pedology...... 6 (e) Climate...... 7 1.2.2 Biological...... 7 1.2.2.1 The biodiversity resource ...... 7 (a) Flowering plants, ferns & bryophytes...... 8 (b) Fungi ...... 9 (c) Invertebrates ...... 9 (d) Amphibians, fish and reptiles ...... 9 (e) Birds...... 9 (f) Mammals ...... 11 1.2.3 Cultural...... 11 1.2.3.1 Legal obligations...... 11 1.2.3.1 (a) Purchase conditions...... 11 (b) Public rights of way and other access...... 11 (c) Wayleaves and easements ...... 12 (d) Artificial structures...... 12 (e) Insurance ...... 12 (f) Boundary responsibilities...... 12 (g) The Forestry Acts...... 12 (h) The Heritage Lottery Fund Award...... 13 (i) The Forest Stewardship Council...... 13 (j) Protected species - Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) ...... 13 1.2.3.2 Site safety...... 13 (a) Dangerous trees ...... 14 (b) Natural features - steep slopes, water/wetland areas...... 14 (c) Manmade hazards - rope swings...... 14 (d) Flytipping and dangerous rubbish...... 14 (e) Conflicting recreational uses...... 15 (f) Fire plan...... 15 1.2.4 Archaeology and historic interest...... 15 (a) Archaeology...... 15 (b) Land use history...... 15 1.2.5 Community involvement, recreation and access...... 16 (a) Access and recreation ...... 16 (b) Community involvement...... 17 (c) Education and interpretation...... 17 1.2.6 Landscape value...... 17 1.2.7 Tourism...... 17 2 The Woodland Resource...... 25 2.1 Quantitative Assessment...... 25 2.1.1 Methods of site survey, inventory and classification ...... 25 2.1.2 Summary of inventory...... 25 2.1.3 Compartment descriptions...... 25

2.2 Silvicultural assessment and management options ...... 27 2.2.1 Birch Wood...... 27 2.2.2 Warren Vale Plantations...... 28 2.3 Sustainability and management for biodiversity ...... 30 2.3.1 Sustainability ...... 30 2.3.2 Management for biodiversity...... 30 2.3.3 Priority habitats...... 30 2.3.4 Biodiversity action plan species ...... 30 3. The Administration and Economy...... 36 3.1.1 The administrative organisation ...... 36 3.1.2. Labour sources...... 36 3.2 The forest industry...... 36 3.2.1 Wood markets, present and future ...... 36 3.2.2 Methods of sale ...... 36 3.2.3 Methods of conversion, extraction and transport ...... 36 3.3 Sources of grant aid ...... 38 3.3.1 Heritage Lottery Fund Award...... 38 3.3.2 Forestry Commission - Woodland Grant Scheme...... 38 3.3.3 English Nature Local Nature Reserve Grants ...... 38 3.3.4 South Yorkshire Forest Partnership ...... 38 4. Aims, Objectives And Management Prescriptions ...... 40 4.1 Summary of present position...... 40 4.1.1 Silviculture ...... 40 4.1.2 Nature conservation ...... 40 4.1.3 Recreation and access...... 41 4.1.4 Archaeology and historic interest ...... 41 4.1.5 Landscape...... 41 4.1.6 Community involvement...... 41 4.1.7 Education and interpretation………………………………………………………... 40 4.2 General policy of the Council ...... 41 4.3 Aims and objectives of management ...... 42 4.4 Management prescriptions...... 45 4.4.1 The woodland habitats ...... 45 4.4.2 Boundary and access management...... 46 4.4.3 Over-mature and dead trees ...... 47 4.4.4 Site safety...... 48 (a) Dangerous trees ...... 47 (b) Natural features - slopes...... 47 (c) Natural features - water course and wet woodland area...... 47 (d) Overhead power lines…………………………………………………………….47 (e) Manmade hazards ...... 48 (f) Flytipping and dangerous rubbish...... 49 (g) Fire plan ...... 49 4.4.5 Sustainability and biodiversity ...... 48 4.4.6 Access and recreation...... 48 4.4.7 Education and interpretation ...... 49 4.4.8 Community involvement...... 50 4.4.9 Landscape...... 50 4.4.10 Archaeology and historic interest ...... 50 4.4.11 Ecological survey and monitoring...... 50 5. Management Implementation ...... 53 5.1 The Restoration Programme: Management Implementation...... 52 5.2 Annual Work Programmes (Years 1 to 5)...... 53 5.3 Forestry operations ...... 58 6. Financial Statement ...... 59

6.1 Financial forecast for years 1 to 5 ...... 59 6.2 Income ...... 60 7. Monitoring and Review...... 62 7.1 General management...... 61 7.2. Review...... 61 8. Communications...... 63 9. Glossary of terms ...... 65 10.0 References...... 67 10.1 Literature cited...... 67 10.2 Literature consulted but not cited...... 68

List of Tables

Table 1.1 Ancient woodland indicator species ...... 9 Table 1.2 Recreational activities within Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation and their present impact...... 10 Table 1.2.3(a) Recreational pursuits assocciated with woodlands and their suitability in Brich Wood and Warren Vale Plantations...... 19 Table 1.2.3(b) Other woodland provision in the area...... 22 Table 1.2.3(c) Inventory of available recreation facilities ...... 24 Table 2.1 Compartment Analysis ...... 25 Table 2.3.1 Open space monitoring...... 31 Table 2.3.2 Dead wood monitoring 31 Table 2.3.3 Priority species...... 31 Table 2.3.4 Delivering National Criteria For Sustainable Forest Management At Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation ...... 32 Table 5.3 Volume estimates for harvesting proposals ...... 58 Table 6.1(a)Expenditure in Birch Wood ...... 61 Table 6.1(b)Expenditure in Warren Vale 59 Table 6.2 Income ...... 60 Table 6.3(a) Net costs (estimated) Years 1-5 for Birch Wood ...... 60 Table 6.3(b) Net costs (estimated) Years 1-5 for Warren Vale Plantations 60 Table 8.1 List of contacts and consultees ...... 63

List of Figures

Figure 1.1 Location Map ...... 70 Figure 1.2 Management compartment map...... 71 Figure 1.2(b) Historic ownership information – deed areas……………………………………72 Figure 1.3 Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation LNR Boundary...... 73 Figure 1.4 National vegetation classification map...... 74 Figure 1.5 Access points and footpath network ...... 75 Figure 1.6 Wayleaves and easements...... 76 Figure 1.7 Site hazard map ……………………………………………………………………………..77 Figure 2.1 Silvicultural and other vegetation management...... 78 Figure 2.2 Desired end product ...... 79

1.1 General Information

OS Grid Reference: SK435978

Area: Birch Wood 2.0 hectares Warren Vale Plantations 1.7 hectares

Ownership: Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council

1.1.1 Location

Birch Wood and the Warren Vale Plantations are located approximately 5 kilometres north of Rotherham Town Centre to the west of the A633, Warren Vale leading to Swinton and Wath- Upon-Dearne (see figure 1.1). The residential area of Rawmarsh is situated immediately to the south of the woodlands. Open countryside lies to the north, composed largely of arable fields.

1.1.2 Ownership information

Rotherham Borough Council purchased Birch Wood in 1955 as part of a larger land purchase of 75.5 acres from the Earl Fitzwilliam’s Wentworth Estates for £3,775.

Part of the land on which the Warren Vale Plantations were planted was purchased from the National Coal Board in 1971 for £250. Compartments a and e and part of d were planted on this land (see figure 1.2).

The remaining part of the land was purchased in 1973 from Arthur George Pugh of Cornerways, Moorgate and Constance Pugh of Treetops, Doncaster Road, Thrybergh as appointed executors to Arthur James Pugh late of Windy Ridge, Warren Vale, Rawmarsh for £11,500. Compartments b, c and the remaining part of compartment d were planted on this land.

See figure 1.2(b) for previous ownership information, including deed areas.

1.1.3 Formal designations and constraints

Birch Wood and the Warren Vale Plantations are included within the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification of Rotherham Borough Council’s woodland estate. Certification was awarded under the United Kingdom Woodland Assurance Scheme.

Birch Wood is included within the Nature Conservancy Council’s Ancient Woodland Inventory (1986).

The woods fall within the Coal Measures Natural Area, as defined by English Nature (1996).

The woods form part of the Warren Vale and Birch Wood Local Nature Reserve, as designated by English Nature (see figure 1.3).

The site is constrained by Green Belt and Unitary Development Plan Policies (June 1999); of particular relevance are the Environment Policies in Chapter 6 of the UDP.

The woods are subject to regulations under the Forestry Acts. A Forestry Commission Woodland Grant Scheme is in place that covers all silvicultural operations until 31st March 2006. The woodland receives annual management grant under the Woodland Grant Scheme to maintain safe public access.

The property lies within the project area of the South Yorkshire Forest, and forms part of the Wentworth Parks Zone, as identified in the Forest Plan (South Yorkshire Forest, 2002). The site is identified as a “Landscape Improvement Area”.

The site is crossed by several definitive footpaths, Rawmarsh Nos. 4, 5, 6 and 7 (see figure 1.5). There are no bridle routes, permissive or definitive, across the site. The first 200m of Pipe House Lane off Thorogate (see figure 1.5) is designated as a public highway, but there is no evidence to suggest that this has other than public footpath status.

The site is crossed by a Yorkshire Electricity low voltage overhead transmission line, and a National Grid overhead transmission line. Two Yorkshire Water surface water sewers discharge into Colliery Brook in Birch Wood. A combined sewer is located on the south edge of Warren Vale Plantations, just touching on the edge of compartment 3c and running through the centre of compartment 3e. See figure 1.6.

Although there are chambers and gas vents connected with mining operations throughout the area there are none in Birch Wood or Warren Vale Plantations.

1.1.4 General site description

Birch Wood

Birch Wood is a semi-natural woodland site, situated in a sometimes steep sided stream valley and modified by plantation forestry. The wood forms a distinctive edge and backdrop to the settlement of Rawmarsh.

The earliest record for Birch Wood dates from 1776, however the topography of the site and the relatively diverse ground flora suggest that this is in fact ancient woodland. Birch Wood remains unchanged in shape since the 1851 OS map.

The Majority of the wood is characterised by a broken canopy of scattered 100 year old Sessile oak (Quercus petraea), intermixed with 50-100 year old sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). A few mature beech (Fagus sylvatica) and common lime (Tilia x europaea) are also present. The shrub layer is poorly-developed, but includes hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and holly (Ilex aquifolium).

Warren Vale

Warren Vale Plantation consists of five uniform blocks of plantation approximately 30m wide and established around 1975. The blocks are interspersed with areas of open grassland. The plantations are predominantly mixed broadleaves of locally native species such as ash, silver birch, oak, field maple, common alder and goat willow. Non-native species characteristic of the Coal Measures Natural Area have also been planted, particularly beech. There is also a number of sycamore and conifers species such as hybrid larch and Corsican pine planted throughout the compartments. This type of species composition is typical of amenity planting of the 1970’s.

The shrub layer is poorly developed with a mix of elder and hawthorn. The field layer is mostly bare with some bluebell, an ancient woodland site indicator in South Yorkshire, foxglove and bramble.

The site has been highly modified in the past by the presence of colliery spoil from the Old Warren Vale Colliery. Small pieces of coal can be found on the surface of the soil, especially on the eastern section of the site, evidence that the site was used to tip spoil during working

of the Old Warren Vale Colliery. Maps of the area suggest that the colliery had closed by 1903.

There can be a number of problems with sites associated with colliery workings. These can include lower than normal soil pH, instances of higher soil salinity, although this is more common in North-east England, and lower levels of available nutrients.

Situated on the urban fringe both Birch Wood and Warren Vale are well used by the local community, predominantly for informal recreation activities such as dog walking. There are a number of problems associated with inappropriate uses of the site for motor biking and horse riding. There are also a number of problems with fly tipping.

1.2 Environmental Information

1.2.1. Physical

(a) Hydrology

Collier Brook runs through the centre of Birch Wood and several associated wet flushes occur along the valley bottom close to the brook. To the western end of the site a marsh area occurs. The majority of the wood is free draining due to the steeply sloping nature of the site.

(b) Topography

Birch Wood occurs on steeply sloping, south facing slopes running down to the narrow flat valley bottom before grading up to the more gently sloping north facing valley sides. Warren Vale Plantation is situated on a gently north-east facing slope but moderately steep in compartment A. The higher slopes of Birch Wood are 75m above sea level. The lower slopes and the Warren Vale Plantations are 70m above sea level.

The site lies within English Natures Coal Measures Natural Area. Much of the site lies on the sandstone band of Abdy Rock, with parts overlying associated shales. There are a number of coal seams in the area.

(d) Pedology.

The soils of Birch Wood and much of Warren Vale are brown earths of fine loam with a mix of particulate sandstone. There is a high fibre content near the surface. The soils adjacent to the stream consist of light brown clays with wet deep brown loam, the area of marsh land to the west of Birch Wood has a high fibre content. Within Warren Vale small pieces of coal are present on the soil surface, especially in the eastern half of the site, indicating the presence of spoil tips.

PH at the two sites is as follows:

Birch Wood under the beech stand - 4.5 Birch Wood Oak and birch stand - 5.5 Warren Vale Plantation (Compartment A) - 6.0 Warren Vale Plantation (Compartment E) - 5.5

(e) Climate

The following information was provided by the Weston Park Museum, Sheffield (2002) which is the nearest meteorological station to the site. The figures are based on 30 year averages.

Season Temperature (Celsius) Rainfall (mm) Sunshine (hours)

Winter Mean 4.8 Mean 73 Mean 68.3 Max. 7.5 Total 150 Total 205 Min 2.1

Spring Mean 11.3 Mean 62 Mean 164 Max. 15.3 Total 186 Total 492 Min 7.2

Summer Mean 13.5 Mean 59.3 Mean 169.7 Max. 19.5 Total 178 Total 509 Min 11.5

Autumn Mean 7.3 Mean 81.7 Mean 58.3 Max. 9.9 Total 245 Total 175 Min 4.6

1.2.2 Biological.

This section summarises the main habitats and most significant floral and faunal species recorded from Birch Wood, together with their status, distribution and ecology as necessary. A full list of species recorded from between 1970-2005 can be found in Appendix 1. This information identifies if any UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UKBAP) priority species and habitats, or species of conservation concern are present. Also, any Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) key species or habitats recorded in the woodland areas will be given specific consideration in the management plan. The main plant communities present at the site are identified and classified using the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) system (Figure 1.4).

The UK BAP highlights UK habitats and species that are conservation priorities or of conservation concern (formally BAP short, middle and long list species) because they are scarce, rapidly declining or highly threatened. The lists also include habitats and species of which the UK has a significant amount of the Global or European resource. In order to deliver the UK BAP targets the Action Plan needs to be implemented at a local level. LBAPs identify species and habitats that are scarce, rapidly declining or threatened in the local area and take action to protect them. Any UK BAP species and habitats present in the local area should be LBAP priorities, however LBAPs will not be constrained to the UK lists and will consider species and habitats of local significance. The Rotherham LBAP was formally adopted on 4th September 2002 and given full Council approval on 25th September 2002.

To bridge the gap between the UK and Local BAPs and to effectively deliver biodiversity, a regional approach enables the grouping of areas with similar land use history and ecological character using English Natures Natural Areas (see section 2.3)

1.2.2.1 The Biodiversity Resource

The majority of Birch Wood is an ancient woodland site, modified by plantation forestry. Most of the wood is characterised by a broken canopy of scattered 100 year old Sessile oak (Quercus petraea), intermixed with 50-100 year old sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus). A few mature beech (Fagus sylvatica) and common lime (Tilia x europaea) are also present. The shrub layer is poorly developed, but includes hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and holly (Ilex aquifolium). The field layer is dominated by creeping soft grass (Holcus mollis) and bramble (Rubus fruticosus) with locally abundant bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) though other herbs are rare. Bracken (Pteriduim aquilinum) is dominant in the open areas from early summer. There is some natural regeneration present particularly in areas where safety works to mature trees have opened the canopy, this regeneration is mainly beech, sycamore and oak. Within the National Vegetation Classification Birch Wood has the closest affinity with W10 pedunculate oak – bracken – bramble woodland (Rodwell, 1991).

The immediate streamside supports an area of wet woodland characterised by NVC 7 common alder – ash – yellow pimpernel woodland grading into NVC W8 ash – field maple – dog’s mercury woodland. Wet woodlands of this type have been identified nationally, regionally and locally as a Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat. Species present included ancient woodland indicators such as Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus), yellow archangel (Galobdolon luteum), wood sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), and typical wet woodland species in particular crack willow (Salix fragilis) osier (Salix viminalis) lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria) amongst others.

In the western end of Birch Wood there is a small area of marshland dominated by reed canary grass with other species present including bog stitchwort, creeping buttercup and great willow-herb.

(a) Flowering Plants, Ferns & Bryophytes.

In total 76 flowering plants have been recorded from within Birch Wood. The list includes 13 ancient woodland indicator species for South Yorkshire (see table 1.1) and 4 “rather scarce” plants for Rotherham. Bluebell is also identified as a species of conservation concern on the UK BAP. Three common woodland ferns (male fern, bracken and broad buckler fern) have also been recorded. There is only one bryophyte record for the site (Hypnum cupressiforme) and it is likely that this group is under-recorded at the site.

The plantations have fewer species, with 66 flowering plants listed. Bluebell is present in small numbers but otherwise, as expected, the ancient woodland flora is absent. Given how disturbed the plantations have been, the bluebell may have been introduced.

Table 1.1 Botanical species recorded at Birch Wood which are indicators of, or have, an affinity with ancient semi-natural woodland.

Common Name Scientific Name Indicator Affinity Strong Mild Bluebell Hyacinthoides non - * scriptus Bird cherry Prunus padus * Greater stitchwort Stellaria holostea * * Guelder rose Viburnum opulus * Holly Ilex aquifolium * Yellow archangel Lamiastrum galeobdolon * * Sessile oak Quercus petraea * Wood melick Melica uniflora * * Wood millet Milium effusum * * Wood sorrel Oxalis acetosella * * Woodruff Galium odoratum * * Guelder-rose Viburnum opulus * Dogs mercury Mercurialis perennis * *

Key to Table Indicator: Indicators of ancient woods in South Yorkshire (Jones, 1995) Affinity: Based on ancient woods in Lincolnshire (Peterken, 1993)

(b) Fungi

There are three fungal records from Birch Wood, five from the Warren Vale Plantations. A survey would be useful.

At present invertebrate records for Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations include 12 millipedes (including 2 BAP and 2 notable species), and 6 centipedes, 5 arachnids and 7 crustaceans. The largest invertebrate group recorded is the insects (102 species within Birch Wood and 139 within the Plantations) of which eighteen species are local in the UK including the ladybird Scymnus auritus, which is rare in Rotherham, the hoverfly Epistrophe grossularie, whose adults are seen on the edges of woodlands on umbelifers or in nearby meadows, and the parasitic fly Conops quadrifasciata which again is usually seen on woodland edges, in glades or hedgerows (Biological Records Centre, Amenities and Recreation 1998). Fourteen insect species are rare or uncommon in Rotherham. The hoverfly Parhclophilus frutctorum and the comma butterfly Ploygonia c-album are both notable in the North of England.

(d) Amphibians, Fish and Reptiles

Frog Rana temporaria has been recorded from the plantations. It is likely that some species use the watercourse and marsh area in Birch Wood but further survey work is necessary.

(e) Birds

A Common Bird Census has been undertaken at Birch Wood and Warren Vale since 1994 with 39 species recorded. Of this list 24 species are identified as priority species or of conservation concern. The song thrush is a priority species and although not dependent on woodland, it will utilise thick hedgerows, and shrubby cover within woodland. It lives on a

diet of worms, snails, slugs, insects and berries. Encouraging a greater spread and diversity of berry producing shrubs like hawthorn, holly and elder within the site would therefore be useful, particularly along woodland edges and within clearings. The thrush will nest in the shrub layer, seldom higher than 4m.

Sparrowhawk, whitethroat, kestrel, coal, blue and great tit, chiff chaff, willow warbler, blackcap, garden warbler, mallard, dunnock and greenfinch are all included on the BAP long-list, and have been recorded within the woodland areas since 1994. Blackcap is a characteristic species of woodland in the natural area.

Other breeding records for the woodland areas include typical species like wren, robin, blackbird, jay, chaffinch and magpie with occasional sightings of kestrel.

The avifauna of the mature woodland of Birch Wood is somewhat limited. Species which are typical of similar sites on the Coal Measures include great spotted woodpecker, tawny owl and treecreeper.

Table 1.2 Resident Bird Species of Conservation Concern

Common and Status Habitat requirements Threats Scientific Name Linnet UKBAP Farmland: prefers Changes in agricultural practices, Caruelis Priority weedy fields, removal of hedges, heavy grazing and cannabina hedgerows, gorse re-seeding of species rich fields. BTO(M) thickets, heathland and scrub. Bullfinch UKBAP Woodland, orchards Removal of farmland trees, loss of Pyrrhula Priority and farmland, closely nesting habitat (hedges & thickets) loss pyrrhula associated with dense of winter food. Will not forage far from BTO(H) shrubs, scrub and shrub cover. untrimmed hedges. Turtle dove UKBAP Associated with fertile Agricultural changes, loss of nesting Streptopelia Priority arable land in warm dry habitat of hedgerows & scrub, possible turtur situations. Nests in effects of climate change. BTO(H) large hedges & mature scrub. Song thrush UKBAP Woodland edge species The species has been in long term Turdus Priority preferring areas decline nationally. This trend may be philomelos adjacent to farmland linked to intensification in agricultural BTO(H) and gardens to feed on practices. molluscs and snails Green RMBC Standing dead wood for Although they were locally rare 10-15 Woodpecker Key nesting whilst preferring years ago the population has expanded Picus viridis Species to feed in open grassed considerably and is now relatively areas. Ground feeders, common in Rotherham. they will break open Removal of large standing dead wood for ants nests to feed on safety reasons and perceived ‘tidying’ of ants woodlands would threaten nesting sites. Great spotted RMBC High in woodland Common and are not currently Woodpecker Key canopies, particularly threatened. Removal of standing dead Dedrocopos Species when feeding young. wood would threaten nest sites. Removal major Feed on invertebrates of fallen dead wood would threaten living in dead wood. feeding. Sparrowhawk RMBC Hedges and scrub to Persecution and egg collection.

Key nest. Use rough ground Removal of hedgerows. Numbers are on Species and glades to prey on, the increase after the dramatic decline in swoop and surprise the Sixties following organophosphate their prey (small birds). poisoning. Use domestic gardens to feed.

Glossary for Table 1.2

UKBAP - United Kingdom Biodiversity Action Plan BTO(H) – British Trust for Ornithology (High Alert) BTO(M) – British Trust for Ornithology (Medium Alert)

(f) Mammals

Three mammal species have been recorded within Birch Wood, Water Vole and Pipistrelle Bat, both UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species and protected by the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Water vole numbers have declined steadily in the last century, due in part to acidification of waterways in the 1940s and 1950s and predation by Mink in the 1980s. Although the pipistrelle bat is the most abundant and widespread bat in the UK it has suffered a severe decline in numbers in the last century. Much of its decline has been attributed to loss of winter roosting sites in old trees, disturbance of roosting sites, loss of feeding habitats such as insect rich wetlands and hedgerows and a reduction in their prey due to agricultural intensification. Grey squirrels are common at the site, and this is characteristic of most mature woodland sites in Rotherham.

1.2.3 Cultural

1.2.3.1 Legal obligations.

(a) Conditions attached to purchase of the land

The following conditions relating to purchase of the woodland are recorded in deed no. Rawmarsh 90.

The owner “will forthwith erect and thereafter maintain on the said boundaries marked with an inturned ‘T’ (i.e. northern and north eastern boundary of Birch Wood, amenity grassland adjoining Birch Wood, and north-eastern boundary of field immediately south of Birch Wood) good and substantial post and wire mesh fences. Such fences to be to a height of four feet above the level of the adjacent ground, with concrete posts four inches by four inches and with two inch wire mesh”.

(b) Public rights of way and other access

There are three public rights of way that cross Birch Wood (see figure 1.5). The Council has a duty to maintain these footpaths in good repair to a width of 1.2 metres for access by the public. Appropriate access provisions are also required at the site entrance points corresponding with the rights of way.

A National Grid power line passes through Warren Vale. This runs through compartment d and between compartments c and e, close to their edge.

(d) Artificial structures

Within Birch Wood a disused and vandalised storm drain cover, consisting of an approximately 6 feet high concrete cylinder is present in the north-west corner of Birch Wood. Contact has been made with Yorkshire Water with regard to its removal.

At present there are also two bridges crossing Collier Brook within Birch Wood, both are constructed of steel. Until recently, the bridge to the western end of the wood was constructed of timber and was beginning to suffer from misuse and disrepair. This was replaced with a steel structure in November 2002 by Design and Engineering Services. This work was partly supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund Award ‘Fuelling a revolution – The Woods that Founded the Steel Country’.

Some steps have also been installed on the public footpath running north-south on the steep valley sides, the condition of these steps is variable and some erosion is occurring.

(e) Insurance

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council is not insured for any damage or loss of any of its woodland sites. Birch Wood is however subject to the conditions of the Heritage Lottery Fund Award that includes an obligation to the Council to cover the costs of repairs and replacement in accordance with approved purposes as identified in the ‘statement of intent’ to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

(f) Boundary responsibilities

There is a large boundary edge to the woodland owing to the compartmentalised nature of the site, particularly within Warren Vale Plantation. Most of the boundaries of Warren Vale Plantation are adjoined by open grassland with no formal demarcation of the boundary edge. This adjoining land is owned by Rotherham MBC. Sections of Compartments B and C adjoin Pipe House Lane which is a public right of way.

The southern section of Birch Wood is bounded by residential properties on Hague Avenue. The owners of some properties along Hague Avenue are at present maintaining a variety of boundary structures with a number of illegal access points into the wood. The boundary on the north side of Birch Wood is bounded by open agricultural land.

(g) The Forestry Acts

All tree works carried out within Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation must be in accordance with the Forestry Acts (1967, as amended). Therefore a Felling Licence will be required if felling more than 5 cubic metres of timber a quarter, of trees that have a diameter at breast height of greater than 8 cms.

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation is subject to a Forestry Commission approved Plan of Operations received under Woodland Grant Scheme (ref. 012003560). This meets the requirements of the Forestry Regulations and covers the planned silvicultural works until 31/03/06. Also, all future silvicultural management will aim to be sustainable and meet the criteria laid out in the UK Forestry Standard and England Forest Strategy and the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. (h) The Heritage Lottery Fund

Birch Wood is included within the Heritage Lottery Fund Award – ‘Fuelling a Revolution the Woods that Founded the Steel Country’. The Award which commenced in 2000 for a period of five years, is a partnership between HLF, The Forestry Commission, The Countryside Agency, Sheffield City Council, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Wickersley Parish Council and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council that aims to restore 35 ancient woodlands throughout South Yorkshire. The contribution made by HLF is 75% of the approved costs of work in Birch Wood. The remainder of the funding is contributed by the other partners of the Award (section 6). Specific details of the bid relating to the work programme for Birch Wood is included in Appendix 2, a copy of the contract between Rotherham MBC and the HLF is also included in Appendix 2b.

(i) Forest Stewardship Council

Rotherham Borough Council was awarded the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certificate in March 2003. The certificate number is SA-FM/COC-1352 (INDFOR 072). This was following an audit of the Council’s past and present management of its woodland estate, including amenity, wildlife, timber production and community involvement interests. Certification also demonstrates that there is an integrated, responsible and sustainable approach to the future care and development of the wood. The Council is committed to managing its woodland estate, including Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations in accordance with FSC principals and criteria for a minimum of five years. To ensure these high standards are maintained the Council will be strictly monitored to ensure compliance with certification requirements. Audits are carried out on an annual basis as a minimum. The Council may be required to carry out corrective actions to maintain FSC requirements. Monitoring visits will then be arranged to ensure corrective measures are undertaken. Failure to comply will result in a ‘formal action request’ to address non-compliance. This and the corrective actions will be formally recorded. Serious and persistent non-compliance may result in expulsion from the Forest Stewardship Council scheme.

(j) Protected species - Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)

There are a number of protected species recorded in the woodland, including bluebell and all species of bats and nesting birds. Their protection must be taken into account in the management of the woodland and the legislation concerned with their protection is the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Broadly the Act makes it an offence (subject to exceptions) to:

Intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird or their eggs or nests. Intentionally kill, injure, or take, possess, or trade in any wild animal listed in schedule 5 of the Act and prohibits interference with places used for shelter or protection and to disturb these places. Pick, uproot, trade in or possess (for the purposes of trade) any wild plants listed in schedule 8 of the Act.

1.2.3.2 Site safety

In heavily used woodlands such as Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations there is likely to be a number of potentially dangerous features, both natural and artificial. The sites are also likely be host to a number of conflicting uses, both legal and illegal. It is therefore imperative that safety issues are adequately considered. Identified below are a number of potentially dangerous features or circumstances.

(a) Dangerous trees.

Trees are living, dynamic structures which undergo a number of stages in life, including

decline and senecence. Die back of branches will occur naturally at some point in the life of a tree and trees may become infected with different species of fungi that can have the capacity to cause decay. Trees are also exposed to the natural elements such as wind, lightning and snow. Trees in woodlands with public access may also be subject to vandalism. Both biotic and abiotic damage has the potential to weaken part of, or the whole tree making the tree dangerous in situations where partial or whole collapse of the tree could happen. In areas where people or property are present then the tree could be considered dangerous. It is the responsibility of tree owners to ensure their trees do not pose a threat to people or property by carrying out inspections and undertaking the necessary remedial work to maintain trees in a safe condition.

(b) Natural features – steep slopes, water/wetland areas

Birch Wood is a steeply sloping woodland with north and south facing slopes grading down to the stream at the lowest point. Although many of the footpaths, both definitive and permissive run along the slope sides from east to west there are a number which are routed down slopes, particularly the path leading to the bridge at the eastern end of the wood. There are implications for safety and erosion in these areas, particularly in wet conditions. There are steps at locations in the wood to improve conditions for walkers. These will be maintained to an appropriate standard. New steps will be installed if there is a requirement to do so in the future.

Colliery Brook passes through the centre of Birch Wood with associated wetland areas either side of the brook, particularly to the western end of the woodland. The section of brook that runs through Birch Wood is slow flowing, narrow, and shallow. Nevertheless, there are obvious safety issues for site users, particularly unsupervised young children.

The main footpaths are routed away from the watercourse and wetland areas and there are two metal footbridges over the brook, preventing the need to enter the water to cross. The main area for concern is the bank sides near where the footpaths meet the bridges. These areas are bare of vegetation in parts and allow easy access to the water. Advice will be sought from the Councils Health and Safety Officer as to whether any additional safety precautions need to be taken near the water course.

The nature of the site with its steep slopes lends itself well to use for rope swings hung from trees. There are potential safety risks here if swings are attached to weak tree limbs or weak rope is used. Swings over footpaths will conflict with use of the paths by walkers.

(d) Flytipping and dangerous rubbish

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations do not suffer particularly badly from problems of dumping. Although dumping of garden waste is a problem, particularly at the main entrance points. It is likely that this type of practice has been the cause of Japanese knotweed being introduced into compartment A of Warren Vale Plantation. Disposal of dumped material can be an expensive problem, particularly when it may pose a threat to public safety or involves the eradication of Japanese knotweed.

(e) Conflicting recreation uses

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations are used by the community mainly for passive pursuits. There are no bridleways through the woodland, therefore the only permitted

activities are those on foot. However there are a number of illegal activities that do take place, mainly motorbike riding and shooting. These activities conflict with legitimate users of the site.

(f). Fire plan

A fire plan was produced in the late 1990’s for all Council owned woodlands and other countryside sites by the then Culture, Countryside and Amenities Service in consultation with the South Yorkshire Fire Service. A fire plan location and access map for Birch Wood has been prepared. The main access points are identified in Figure 1.5 with a description of the access provisions in Table 1.2.3 (c).

1.2.4 Archaeology and historic interest

(a) Archaeology

No notable archaeological features have been identified in Birch Wood or Warren Vale Plantations. The Roman Ridge is located to the north of Warren Vale Plantations. This is considered to be a fortification that formed part of an ancient frontier between 1400BC and 1000AD. Although this is not within the area of the management plan it suggests that there may be features of archaeological interest on the site.

(b) Land use history

According to the Domesday Book of 1086, the parish of Rawmarsh was dominated by wood- pasture, as much of the Coal Measures within the Rotherham and Sheffield area was at this time (Jones, 1995):-

“In Rawmarsh, Stori had four carucates of land for geld. Land for two ploughs. Now Walter (de Aincurt) has one plough there and four villeins, and one bordar and two sokemen having two ploughs. Twelve acres of meadow there and a mill of 10s (per annum). Pasturable wood one league in length and half in breadth. The whole manor has one and a half leagues in length and one in breadth. It was worth 60s; now (it is worth) 30s”

Using, a form factor (Jones, 1988), this equates to around 500 acres of pasture woodland.

Birch Wood lies within the historic boundaries of Rawmarsh Common. A Fairbank map of Rawmarsh Common, from 1740 depicts an extensive woodland called Birch Wood, stretching northward towards Abdy (Dodsworth, 1996). Mention is made of a Birkwood Colliery in the Rawmarsh area, from a document dated 1724 (WWM ADD Box 35). Birk is an Old English word for Birch. The common was enclosed in 1781, and divided between various local landowners. The site of the woodlands passed to a Mr. T. Oates.

Fairbank maps from the late eighteenth century indicate that the eastern extent of the present woodland was then open ground.

The contemporary extent of the woodland is clearly shown on the 1854 Ordnance Survey of the area. However, Birch Wood is not shown on the Rawmarsh Common Enclosure Map of 1781. As such it is not possible to prove conclusively that the present day woodland is derived directly from the original common wood. The name Birch Wood may simply have been applied to a later plantation on the same site. However, the presence of a small number of ancient woodland plant indicators within the contemporary Birch Wood, and its steep, uncultivatable topography, strongly suggest it may be a remnant of the original common wood.

Birch Wood, together with other areas forming the northern half of the Warren Vale site complex were purchased by Rawmarsh Urban District Council from the Fitzwilliam Wentworth Estate on 7th September, 1959 and subsequently passed to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (Rawmarsh 90).

The area of land that includes Warren Vale Plantation has been highly modified by the presence of colliery spoil from the old Warren Vale Colliery, particularly the eastern section including compartments A, D and E. The 1890 OS Map shows a colliery adjacent to Warren Vale Road, the 1903 map however shows that it has closed by this date and the 1930 Maps indicates that the mine has disappeared.

Small pieces of coal present on the soil surface in Warren Vale Plantation, particularly in eastern half of the site and in the adjacent field to the south east of the site are indications that the site was used to store colliery spoil during periods of mining operations.

1.2.5 Community involvement, recreation and access

(a) Access and recreation

Birch Wood and Warren vale Plantations provide a variety of opportunities for enjoyment of the countryside and generally informal recreational pursuits.

It is recognised that there is a need to promote healthier lifestyles to improve the Borough’s poor health statistics. For example, lack of regular exercise is known as contributing to the high incidence of circulatory disease in the district. Therefore Birch Wood and the associated plantations offer a valuable setting close to where people live.

On the whole the woodland provides good access opportunities for a wide range of people with mixed abilities. It is crossed by two public footpaths, linking to the open countryside of the Wentworth area immediately north of the woodland.

Walking is probably the commonest informal activity taking place in the woodland. There are 990 metres of definitive or permissive footpaths serving Birch Wood and the plantations. The definitive footpaths (see figure 1.5) were mostly surfaced with sandstone in 1993, and waymarked, with steps in places, whilst two footbridges cross Collier Brook. Horse-riding, although not permitted, does take place on a casual but occasional basis. Motor-cycling, an illegal activity, can be a problem, causing erosion and deterring other visitors, although recent boundary control measures have helped to tackle the problem. Mountain biking is concentrated within the eastern end of the woodland where, on the steep slopes it is causing severe erosion.

The woodland does suffer from a degree of vandalism, including firing of mature trees, illegal tree-felling and injury, and air rifle shooting. Litter picking requires to be undertaken regularly at the woodland.

At present some of the entrances are provisioned with access furniture. These points enter Warren Vale Plantation and Birch Wood from the residential areas to the south and west. The land to the west of Birch Wood, although in Council ownership is under the control of Housing Services. The access points into Birch Wood from the farmland to the north, which is owned by the Wentworth Estate, are open with no access furniture. Table 1.2.3(c) and figure 1.5 identify and describe the access points in more detail. In the context of the Upper Haugh area, Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation represent the most readily accessible woodland, increasing the pressures on the sites. These will increase further when the new

residential development adjoining Harding Avenue and Meadow Lane immediately west of the site is complete.

(b) Community involvement

At present community involvement in the site is limited to occasional reports of problems within the woodland such as litter tipping and vandalism or problems caused by mature trees adjacent to properties. The wood is heavily used by the local community for recreation, in particular dog walking.

Birch Wood and Warren Vale form part of a Local Nature Reserve which has great potential as an educational resource. The public footpath routes running through the site have also been used for guided walks.

Birch Wood and Warren Vale are close to a number of local schools; Thorogate Primary School, Rawmarsh Monkwood County Primary School and Rawmarsh Monkwood Infant School. The schools are in easy walking distance of the woodland and there is good opportunity, particularly in Warren Vale, to hold outdoor classroom sessions as the area is generally flat with large areas of open space.

Birch Wood has been included in the Heritage Lottery Fund Award, ‘Fuelling a Revolution – The Woods that Founded the Steel Country’ and a number of community based activities and events have taken place at the site over the five years of the Award. Birch Wood and Warren Vale are also promoted as a community woodland within the South Yorkshire Forest.

1.2.6 Landscape value

Birch Wood and Warren Vale are situated within the Wentworth Parks Zone, as identified by the South Yorkshire Forest Plan (2002). This is the largest and most diverse zone in the forest area. It lies almost entirely on coal-bearing rocks, which have been exploited from early times. The landscape is pleasantly rolling, reflecting the alternating succession of north-easterly dipping shales and sandstones.

The woodlands are a prominent part of the local landscape, particularly for nearby residents as is the maturing woodland adjoining Old Warren Vale. Birch Wood also represents one of the few surviving areas of the historic landscape of Rawmarsh Common.

1.2.7 Tourism

There are a number of high profile tourist attractions in the Rotherham area such as the Magna Centre, Roche Abbey and the Tropical Butterfly House. Also, being close to the M1, A1 and M18 the Borough is well served by a comprehensive road network. Tourism currently contributes quite considerably to the local economy. However, attracting more people to the area and raising the profile of Rotherham as a tourist destination will depend on the area having an attractive environment.

Although sites such as Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations do not in themselves attract visitors to the area the woodland does contribute considerably to the desirability of the area as a whole. The area in which the woodland lies has pockets of very attractive countryside and the Wentworth area attracts many visitors from other parts of South Yorkshire and beyond. People visiting the area are likely to use the woodland for walking and passive pursuits such as photography and wildlife study.

Table 1.2.3(a) Recreation pursuits associated with woodlands and their suitability in Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation.

Activity Requirements Impacts Safety Issues (*) Nature of the Suitability for this activity woodland

Erosion Wildlife Noise Disturbance Closed and open woodland Minimal (personal due care and Walking Defined path network and Low Low Low Formal and informal attention) Very suitable. waymarking. Information and / Individual or group interpretative signs are useful. based Minimal (personal due care and Photography Open areas linked by path network. Low Low Low Informal / Individual attention) Very suitable. Minimal (personal due care and Wildlife study Varied woodland structure but Low Low Low Formal and informal attention) Very suitable. particularly open woodland linked by / Individual or group path network. based Minimal (personal due care and Painting and Open areas linked by path network. Low Low Low Formal and informal attention) Suitable. sketching / Individual or group based Play (children’s Close mown area linked by path Low Low Moderate Moderate. Personal (adult Informal/ Individual Unsuitable. No suitable facilities) network, ideally close to parking supervision for young children) or group based areas for formal play facilities. Suitable play equipment and and duty of Council to maintain equipment. appropriate safety surfacing would be equipment in a safe condition. necessary. Cross country Defined path network that is Low Low to Low Moderate depending on Formal and informal Suitable for running waymarked moderate, numbers involved at any one / Individual or group individuals. depending time. based on numbers and season Mountain biking Defined bridle route that is High Low Low Minimal/moderate Conflict with Informal/Individual Unsuitable. There are waymarked. other path users. Personal due no bridle routes through care and attention. the wood. Picnicking Close mown open areas linked by Low Low Low/ Minimal. Informal/ Group Suitable. However no path network, ideally close to parking Moderate Personal due care and attention based woodland furniture facilities. Woodland furniture. High and duty of Council to maintain present. maintenance required. furniture in a safe condition.

Activity Requirements Impacts Safety Issues (*) Nature of the Suitability for this activity woodland

Erosion Wildlife Noise Disturbance Biathlon events Defined path and track network Moderate Moderate Low/ Moderate – requires risk Formal/Group Unsuitable. The Moderate assessments and appropriate woodland cannot insurance from event organisers. support large numbers of cyclists – No bridle routes Horse riding Defined bridle route. Must be well Moderate/High. Conflicts with Informal/Individual High Low Low surfaced if large numbers of horses other uses Unsuitable. There are use the woodland. no bridle routes through the wood. Low/Moderate - requires risk Formal/Group Orienteering Diverse woodland structure (open and Moderate Moderate or Low assessments and appropriate Fairly suitable, closed woodland). high insurance from event organisers depending on time of depending year. However, the on the time woodland is unlikely to of year be large enough.

Archery Open woodland areas linked by path Low Low Low High - requires risk Informal/ Individual Very unsuitable. network assessments and appropriate or group based Insufficient open space insurance from event organisers. available.

Camping Open, close mown areas. Water Low Low/ Moderate Moderate Informal/ Individual Very unsuitable. No supply, toilet facilities, refuse Moderate / High Moderate if fires were permitted. or group based formal facilities. collection. Very high maintenance. Personal due care and attention required.

Shooting (Clays, Open ground for clays and target. Low Moderate/ High Very high - requires risk Formal/Group Very unsuitable. The target, game and Large rural woodlands required for High assessments and appropriate woodland is not large stalking) game/ stalking. insurance from event organisers. enough and is too heavily used for other forms of recreation. Conflicts with conservation objectives.

Activity Requirements Impacts Safety Issues (*) Nature of the Suitability for this activity woodland

Erosion Wildlife Noise Disturbance Hunting Varied woodland structure. Large Moderate High High Very high - requires risk Formal/Group Very unsuitable. The woodlands with little public access. assessments and appropriate woodland is not large May even be necessary to close insurance from event organisers. enough and is too woodlands for this type of event. heavily used for other forms of recreation. Conflicts with conservation objectives. Motor sports Large woodlands with wide rides and High High High Very high - requires risk Formal/Group Extremely tracks. assessments and appropriate inappropriate. The insurance from event organisers. track and ride network is inadequate. The woodland is too heavily used for other forms of recreation. Adventure games Large areas of multi structured Low/ High High High - requires risk Formal/Group Very unsuitable. The woodland with good cover for Moderate assessments and appropriate woodland is not large e.g. paint ball participants. insurance from event organisers. enough and cover for participants is poor. Wood too heavily used for other forms of recreation. (*) For the purposes of this table, the assessment of safety issues has been made on the basis that equipment and facilities necessary for the activity would be in place.

1.2.3 (b) Other woodland provision in the area.

The table identifies other woodlands within a 10 Kilometre radius of Birch Wood. The private woodlands, particularly the larger woods, may be suitable for organised events. However, the individual policies of private owners are not expressed in the table. Landowners should be approached individually with proposals.

Name Ownership Distance Transport from Birch Extent of access Benefits to community from Birch Wood Wood Recreation* Landscape value/Ancient woodland status Lawn and Blackmoor Private 2.0 Km All by highway. No public rights of Inn Plantations way. May be suitable for events. However, Situated next to Blackmoor owner should be contacted in the first Road and Warren Vale the instance. woods are prominent. Creighton Woods Rotherham 2.2 Km All by highway. Full access, Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the urban edge of Borough including public painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Rotherham the woodlands are Council rights of way country running by individuals. of high landscape importance. Wath and Boyd Royd Rotherham 2.0 K m All by highway. Abdy Full access, Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the edge of the residential Woods Borough Lane is not adopted, but including public painting and sketching, picnicking, cross area of Swinton/Wath the Council highway rights exist for rights of way country running by individuals. landscape value of this ancient pedestrians. woodland is high. ♦Mausoleum Private 3.0 Km All by adopted highway. By permission of Plantation (Wentworth owner. No public South Yorkshire wood fair held at the site in The plantation is elevated, Woodhouse) rights of way. 2003 and 2005. Access is available to the therefore, locally high Mausoleum on certain days of the year. landscape value. Setting for the Mausoleum. Kilnhurst Hall Wood Rotherham 4.0 Km By adopted highway Full access. Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the urban edge of Borough and over public painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Rotherham. The landscape Council footpaths. country running by individuals. value is high. Morley Plantation Private 5.0 Km By adopted highway On public footpath Activities appropriate for public footpaths. Woodland is small and away and over public Possible events should be discussed with from public highways. Limited footpaths. the owner. landscape value. ♦Hoober Bank, Gorrell Private All within All by adopted highway. No public rights of Possible events should be discussed with Small woods in rural area. Spring, Luke Spring, 5.0 Km way. the owner. Only close to B class roads. Giles Wood, Cartworth Landscape impact is not Plantation significant. ♦Rainsborough Park Private 5.4 Km By adopted highway No public rights of Possible events should be discussed with Large area of woodland close way. the owner. to road network. The ancient woodland has high landscape value.

Bassingthorpe Spring Rotherham 5.5 Km By adopted highway. Full access, Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the urban edge of and Hudsons Rough Borough including public painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Rotherham. The landscape Council rights of way country running by individuals. value of this ancient woodland is high. ♦Rockingham Wood Private 5.5 Km By adopted highway. On public footpath Activities appropriate for public footpaths. On the urban edge of and Shepherd’s Possible events should be discussed with Rotherham the woodland is of Plantation the owner. high landscape value. Rockingham Wood is ancient woodland. ♦King’s Wood Private 6.4 Km First 7.5 Km by adopted On public footpath Activities appropriate for public footpaths. Rural area close to minor road. highway. Remaining 0.5 Possible events should be discussed with Value moderately significant. Km by public right of the owner. way. ♦Trowles Wood Private 7.0 Km All adopted highway On public footpath Activities appropriate for public footpaths. Large ancient woodland on the and public right of way Possible events should be discussed with edge of Thorpe Hesley. The over agricultural land. the owner. landscape value is locally high. ♦Scholes Coppice, Rotherham 7.0 Km All by adopted highway Full access – public Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the urban edge of Bray and Redscope Borough footpaths and painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Rotherham. The landscape Plantations Council bridleways in country running by individuals and horse value of this ancient woodland Scholes. riding at Scholes Coppice. is high. Ravenfield Park Private 7.4 Km All by adopted highway Permissive access Possible events should be discussed with On the urban edge of on foot. the owner. Rotherham. The landscape value is high. Grange Park Rotherham 8.0 Km All by adopted highway Full access – public Walking, photography, wildlife study, On the urban edge of Borough footpaths and painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Rotherham. The landscape Council bridleways. country running by individuals and horse value is high. Many of the riding. woods are ancient woodland. Barley Hole Springs Private 8.7 Km All by adopted highway No public rights of Possible events should be discussed with Rural area close to minor road. way. the owner. Value moderately significant. Hood Hill Plantation Private 9.1 Km All by adopted highway No public rights of Possible events should be discussed with Rural area close to minor road. way. the owner. Value moderately significant. Barley Hall Plantation Rotherham 10.0 Km All by adopted highway Full access and Walking, photography, wildlife study, Rural area close to minor road. Borough permissive painting and sketching, picnicking, cross Value moderately significant. Council bridleway. country running by individuals and horse riding. *The suitability of activities have been assessed in accordance with the requirements described in table 1.2.3 (a) ♦The woods are within an area designated as an area of high landscape value in the Unitary Development Plan. The area is afforded extra protection for this reason (policy ENV1.1 and ENV 1.2)

Table 1.2.3(c) Inventory of available recreation facilities

(a) Habitat Types

(i) Closed woodland - Mixed broadleaved plantation. Replanted ancient woodland

(ii) Marsh and Carr- Wet woodland area and adjacent wet area

(ii) Adjoining countryside areas – views out across open agricultural land to the south of Birch Wood and the adjoining mosaic of acid grassland, developing woodland and scrub that forms Warren Vale.

(b) Viewpoints

Internal - views from within wood particularly on the north side of the wood adjacent to the housing are limited. However the views from the southern edge into the wood out across the farmland are more rewarding.

External – The woodland is very prominent in the landscape for the residential area to the south, particularly from Hague Avenue. The plantations in Warren Vale will become more prominent as they grow. However, their contribution from Warren Vale Road to Swinton is not significant owing to topography. The plantations are considerably lower than the road and are separated by a bank of roadside trees.

(i) Public rights of way – Three public rights of way cross the site, Rawmarsh Numbers 4, 5, & 6.

(i) Bridleways – None

(iii) Informal casual footpaths –there are a number along the northern and eastern boundaries of Birch Wood close to the flats and throughout the southern part of the wood. There are a number that cross the Warren Vale Plantations

(iv) Access points (refer to Figure 1.5).

No. 1 Public access down Pipe House Lane. Secured with a metal squeeze through and wooden steps allowing pedestrian access.

No. 2 Cuts through between the flats on Hague Avenue. Secured with metal squeeze through and concrete steps into the wood, allows pedestrian access only.

No. 3 Small (2-4ft) metal gate, allowing pedestrian access.

No. 4 Well used path leading to open access point, whole boundary is open.

No. 5 Squeeze through point on footbridge allowing pedestrian access..

No. 6 Access from the adjoining site along a permissive footpath. There are no formal access structures.

No. 7 Metal stile allowing pedestrian access and locked metal field gate allowing vehicular access although large boulders have been placed in front of the gate. (d) Public transport

The local area is well served by public transport with frequent bus stops on Warren Vale, Thorogate and Hague Avenue. These stops are served by services between Rotherham town centre and Swinton and Wath-Upon –Dearne. The nearest stop to Birch Wood is 500 metres and the nearest stop to the Warren Vale Plantations is 170 metres.

2 THE WOODLAND RESOURCE.

2.1 Quantitative Assessment.

2.1.1 Methods of site survey and mensuration used

The woodland has been divided into sub-compartments on the basis of its vegetation (for example woodland, grassland) and given sub compartment numbers for the Forestry Commission woodland grant scheme e.g. 3A – 3F. These were further sub-divided by community, species, age-structure and special features e.g. water course as necessary. Sub-compartment areas were later estimated to the nearest 0.1 hectare using a dot grid and checked against the total site area shown on the most recent 1:2500 scale Ordnance Survey.

Following definition, the structure and composition of the vegetation of each sub- compartment was recorded in detail. In addition, evidence of past management and other site features were noted. Summarised compartment descriptions are given in Section 2.1.3.

2.1.2 Summary of inventory

The volume of standing timber per hectare was obtained by following procedure 9 in Forestry Commission Booklet 39 Hamilton, 1975)

Table 2.1 Compartment Analysis

S.cpt Area Planting Species Vol/ha Yield Class Broadleaf (ha) year m3 high forest 3a 0.2 40-60 MB 0.6 3b 0.3 75 MB 130 8 0.4 3c 0.6 75 MB 110 8 0.4 3d 0.4 75 MB 0.7 3e 0.2 75 MB 0.1 3f 2.0 Pre-1900 SOK/SY 120 4 4.6 Total 3.7 6.8

MB - Mixed broadleaves SOK - Sessile oak SY – sycamore

2.1.3 Compartment Descriptions

Birch Wood

Sub-compartment 3F (a) – 1.75 ha

The majority of Birch Wood is characterised by a broken canopy of scattered mature Sessile oak, intermixed with 50-100 year old sycamore. A few mature beech and common lime are present. Other species are rare, but include wych elm, ash, rowan and silver birch.Within the areas where beech is present the ground is bare and there are problems with erosion on the steep slopes. However felling of large single trees for safety reasons in the 1990’s has resulted in areas of prolific beech regeneration together with elder and bramble forming a dense shrub layer. Other shrubs include scattered hawthorn, holly and hazel. The field layer is dominated by creeping soft grass and bramble, with locally abundant bluebell. Other herbs are rare, but include wood melick, dog’s mercury, and honeysuckle. Collier Brook divides the compartment, which lies in a shallow, but steeply-sided valley.

Sub-compartment 3F (b) - 0.15 ha

Immediately adjacent to the brook within the riparian zone a narrow stretch of wet woodland occurs. Dominant tree species closest to the water-course include crack willow (Salix fragilis) and osier (Salix viminalis). In the field layer species typical of wet woods such as lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), and creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens) are frequent. Away from the streamsides sycamore and ash become more dominant with occasional ancient woodland indicators in particular yellow archangel (Galobdolon luteum), wood sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) and guelder rose (Viburnum opulus).

Sub-compartment 3F (c) 0.10 ha

In the western end of Birch Wood lies a small area of marshland dominated by reed canary grass with other species present including bog stitchwort, creeping buttercup, and great willow-herb.

Warren Vale Plantations

Sub-compartment 3A 0.2 ha

Closed canopy stand of closely grown, poorly formed mixed broadleaves, 40-60 years old. Sycamore is the most frequent with silver birch, Sessile oak, ash, large-leaved lime, beech, rowan, horse chestnut and a concentration of hybrid poplar adjoining Old Warren Vale Road. Several of the latter have collapsed in recent years; a few are leaning torward the highway.

The woodland lies on locally high ground, on a 15 - 25° slope. The shrub layer is poorly developed, with scattered elder, hazel and occasional suppressed sycamore saplings.

The field layer is dominated by bare earth, with scattered bluebell, bramble and foxglove.

Sub-compartment 3B 0.3 ha

A plantation of 15m high ash, with silver birch, sycamore, Pedunculate oak, (beech, sweet chestnut, wych elm, wild cherry, poplar and Norway maple). Planted in around 1975 many of the trees are poorly formed with low-forking, heavy branched and small crowns. Some of the exotic species in particular, such as Norway maple, have tight, weak forks, typical of the species.

The understorey supports scattered elder, mature hawthorn, holly and hazel, with some limited sycamore regeneration.

The field layer is typified by creeping soft grass with cow parsley, hogweed, ivy and bramble.

Sub-compartment 3C 0.6 ha

A plantation of 15m high ash, with silver birch, sycamore, Pedunculate oak, beech, wych elm, sweet chestnut, common alder, hybrid poplar, Norway maple, hybrid larch and goat willow, over an open under story of elder, with scattered mature hawthorn. The compartment was planted in around 1975. Again, many of the trees have low-forking small, tight crowns.

Wavy-hair grass is dominant in the field layer with scattered bluebell and common birds-foot- trefoil, and other herbs.

Sub-compartment 3D 0.4 ha

The plantation, established around 1975, is still at the thicket stage, 3-7m high. It has a similar composition to s.cpt. 3c, but with a few Robinia, rowan, field maple and Corsican pine. Many of the trees are poorly formed,

An old hedge-bank, with hawthorn, passes through the plantation.

Field layer is similar to s.cpt. 3c.

A National Grid power line passes over part of the compartment. No work associated with the lines has been undertaken to the trees yet. Therefore, the structure of the woodland under the lines is similar to the adjacent woodland area.

Sub-compartments 3E 0.2 ha

The plantation is only 3-5m in height, with Pedunculate oak, beech, silver birch, sycamore, Norway maple, field maple, ash, wych elm, horse chestnut and scattered mature hawthorn. Established in around 1975.

2.2 Silvicultural assessment and management options

Birch Wood - Compartment 3F (a)

Unfortunately, the woodland continues to suffer from some vandalism, including firing of trees. As a result nearly all the mature trees close to main paths in the woodland are affected by decay of varying degrees. Nine of the most badly affected trees were felled in 1997. Several others of those remaining will need to be closely monitored for related safety reasons.

Due to the open, broken nature of the canopy, sapling to thicket-stage natural regeneration of oak in particular is locally abundant. However, vandalism has resulted in a prevalence of multi-stemmed, crooked and forked stems with limited future prospects. Whilst openings in the mature canopy above are present, many of the young trees are suppressed. Pressure on these trees is increased by the heavy recreational use of the woodland, particularly mountain-biking and tree-swings on the steep ground in the eastern half of the wood which is resulting in extensive areas of bare ground.

The gradual removal of other unsafe mature trees is likely over the next five years as the damage caused in recent years may take sometime to manifest itself. However, this may well have benefits in releasing currently suppressed natural regeneration, promoting a new generation of trees and ensuring the survival of the woodland in the long-term.

The essential removal of unsafe trees combined with selective felling of other trees will make sufficient room for the developing young trees to reach their potential. As much of this regeneration has limited future prospects, further recruitment of natural regeneration will be necessary to provide enough new trees of a suitable species. Singling of multi-stemmed regeneration and coppicing of other poorly-formed young trees would also improve the potential of much of the existing advanced regeneration. Bramble control may be necessary to reduce competition for regenerating trees.

Occasionally complaints are received regarding shading of the gardens of Hague Avenue, usually resulting in pruning of overhanging mature trees, where appropriate. One option in these areas is that as the boundary trees are gradually removed, either for safety reasons or as part of the regeneration process, the replacement trees being managed as coppice. A number of mature trees have been felled or topped at 4m for safety reasons in the last 4 to 5 years along the boundary with Hague Avenue creating canopy gaps. A graded woodland edge would be very beneficial to wildlife.

Elsewhere light thinning of closely-spaced stands of mature trees would create some additional room for further natural regeneration to take place and ensure that increment is concentrated on the best-formed trees, adding timber value in the medium-term.

In the long-term, management should aim to restore the Sessile oak – birch woodland community.

Compartment 3F (b) and (c) Wet woodland management

Through the centre of Birch Wood there runs a stream with a flat marshy riparian zone for approximately 2-3m either side of the watercourse. Tree species here consist of crack willow (Salix fragilis) and osier (Salix viminalis). Present in the field layer is lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria) and creeping buttercup (Ranunclus repens), species typical of wet woodland. Within this section of the woodland there are a range of age classes, but much of the field layer is quite shaded. Low intervention management is an option for management of this area. However, a small number of trees may need to be considered for removal from the streamside to increase light levels to certain sections of the wet woodland. This will provide associated benefits for wildlife by creating a variety of cool shady areas and warm, sheltered sunny areas.

Warren Vale Plantation

Sub - compartment 3A

A small, maturing woodland block is present in the south-eastern corner of the site, adjoining Old Warren Vale (sub-compartment 3a).

This is characterised by densely-stocked mixed broadleaves, predominantly sycamore. Unmanaged for several decades, the majority of the trees are of poor form, with crooked, and forked main stems and drawn crowns. Fire-damage and other effects of vandalism have also reduced their long-term potential. In addition, a small block of mature hybrid poplar lies immediately adjacent to Old Warren Vale. Several of these trees have been windthrown in the last ten years, and those remaining are leaning into the adjoining highway. The exposed situation of the woodland probably contributes to these problems.

The existing trees are unlikely to benefit greatly from thinning. However, alternative options are limited by the small extent of the stand. Complete removal of the woodland would give an opportunity to establish more appropriate species, and if managed properly, prevent the problems presented by this contemporary woodland planting. However, clear-felling is unlikely to be acceptable because of the loss of amenity and wildlife habitat. It is not therefore recommended.

The poplar stand is unstable, and it is recommended that this be removed completely during this plan period, and replanted with mixed locally native broadleaves.

The remainder of the woodland may be best managed by a mixture of very careful thinnings, combined with selective felling to create a small number of larger canopy gaps within which a new generation of trees can be established. Repeated in several stages, this would lead to the gradual removal of the existing stand in 20-30 years, and its replacement with a mixed age woodland.

Sub - compartments 3B and 3C

These sub-compartments have grown well, have closed canopy, and are now over 15 metres high. However, a large minority of the trees are twisted and multi-stemmed, with low- forking, and small drawn crowns. Whilst some trees have been lost to both natural causes and vandalism/illegal felling, these two areas are due for thinning.

Silvicultural management in the form of a long-term programme of light thinnings would improve stand quality by ensuring that future increment is concentrated on the best-formed trees and promote healthy crown development. Due to the high nature conservation status of the site overall, thinning should favour predominantly locally native species. In time, thinning may also promote the development of a shrub layer, by allowing more light into the woodland. A number of thinning techniques are available in a stand of this age; line thinning and individual selective thinning. Line thinning involves the removal of entire rows, often every third row. This method does not consider the condition of individual trees, resulting in removal of well formed trees from some rows and poorly formed trees being retained in other rows. Selective thinning however allows the marker to select poorly formed trees from any row for removal at the benefit of the better formed trees. Line thinning is often used in plantations of single species or two mixed species planted in rows. The trees are usually of a similar form, eliminating the need for individual selection.

Sub - compartments 3D and 3E

These sub-compartments have grown less well, and are still at the thicket-stage. Thinning of these areas should await the next plan period.

All four plantations are narrow and linear, being only 30m in width at most. As the woodland matures it will be reduced to 2-3 trees in depth. The amenity value of such narrow woodland can be difficult to maintain once felling and regeneration are required. Ideally it would be beneficial to widen these plantations and increase their silvicultural flexibility. However, woodland expansion is severely limited by the presence of acid grassland of high nature conservation value on all adjoining areas that have potential for planting. It may be best to fell and regenerate discrete areas of the plantations prematurely in a phased way to spread the visual impact and hence lessen any loss of amenity. In effect, this would gradually produce a mixed aged, structurally diverse woodland, with additional benefits for wildlife.

Another option is the removal of these plantations. Establishment of woodland in this case, has led to the loss of valuable unimproved acid grassland habitat. Removal of the woodland may allow restoration of the previous habitat. However, the woodland blocks are well- established, and contribute to the amenity, landscape and the wildlife interest, of the site by creating a matrix of habitats. It is therefore recommended that they be retained at their present size and extent. Removal would also result in a loss of Woodland Grant Scheme payments.

As these compartments have been established on disturbed ground it will be necessary to properly analyse the soil conditions, both structural and chemical, to determine how well the site will support tree growth in the future. The conditions are clearly variable across the site as compartments 3B and 3C have established more successfully than compartments 3D and 3E.

A power line passes over sub compartment 3D. No management associated with the lines has been carried out to the trees since their planting in 1975. The trees have not yet grown to a height that they are affecting the lines. Therefore, the structure of the woodland under the lines is the same as the adjacent woodland in the compartment. Management of these trees will however be required in future years. The commonest form of management in Rotherham’s woodland estate in these situations is to carryout rotational coppicing under the lines. Management as permanent open space such as grassland would be an option. However, account should be taken of the amount of existing open space adjacent to the woodland compartments in Warren Vale before arguing strongly for the creation of more permanent open space. This option may also have an impact on grant income received from the Forestry Commission.

2.3 Management for Biodiversity

2.3.1 Sustainability

All future management of Birch Wood will aim to be sustainable, contributing towards the national targets of sustainable forest management laid out in the England Forest Strategy (2000). The UK Forestry Standard (2004) gives detailed national criteria for sustainable forest management, to be delivered at the individual forest management level. Table 2.3.4 outlines how the management of Birch Wood meets each of the UK Forestry Standard’s Criteria for sustainable forest management. Sustainable forest management as defined in the UK Forestry Standard is:

‘The stewardship and use of forests and forest lands in a way and at a rate, that maintains their biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, vitality and their potential to fulfil, now and in the future, relevant ecological, economic and social functions at local, national and global levels, and that does not cause damage to other ecosystems’.

2.3.2 Management for Biodiversity.

Biodiversity is a key test of sustainability as it enhances quality of life, provides natural assets from which economic benefits can be derived and demonstrates an environment in good health (English Nature 1999). To achieve the UK Biodiversity Action Plan national targets, a regional approach to biodiversity has been developed for the Yorkshire and Humber area. The regional approach is built upon the UK BAP priority species and habitats and English Nature’s Regional Natural Area reports which describe the biodiversity and natural heritage importance of each region, the issues which impact upon them and regional objectives for nature conservation (English Nature 1999). This has resulted in the production of Rotherham’s BAP

In the Rotherham area a number of habitat/landscape types, including woodlands have been identified as priority biodiversity habitats. Birch Wood contains three types. These are:

Wet Woodlands (High Conservation Concern) Oak – Birch Woodland (Medium Conservation Concern) Streams (Medium Conservation Concern)

2.3.3 Priority Habitats.

Birch Wood is an ancient woodland site, included in the list of Key Habitats in Rotherham and is therefore recognised in the Unitary Development Plan. Warren Vale Plantations and Birch Wood are Scheduled Heritage Sites and will be protected against inappropriate development in keeping with Unitary Development Plan Policies ENV2, ENV2.1, ENV 2.3 and ENV 2.4. Within Birch Wood the area of Wet Woodland adjacent to Collier Brook is a UK and Local Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Habitat. Therefore the wet woodland areas will be a management priority.

2.3.4 Biodiversity Action Plan Species

All species identified as conservation priorities or species of conservation concern (formally short middle and long list species) on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan that have been recorded at Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation will be given special consideration during any management works and their presence monitored annually. Any species present that are included in a Red Data Book, or on the RSPB "amber list", or designated as Regionally or Nationally Notable, will also be given special consideration. The priority species are highlighted on the full site species list (Appendix 1). Additional species information is given in section 1.2.2. Any priority species on the UK BAP or LBAP found to

30 be present at the site during the period of this plan will also become conservation priorities. Sustainable management of Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation should bring benefits to a wide range of species, not just priority BAP species and an overall enhancement in the biodiversity of the site.

Improving diversity within the woodland and the opportunities for BAP species depends to a large extent on the availability of dead wood and open space in the woodland. Adequate dead wood provision is vital for general habitat enhancement as well as improvements for specific species. The survival of almost a third of European forest dwelling species is threatened by the removal of dead wood from forests. Many of the long red list of endangered species are directly linked to dead wood (WWF 2004). With average forests in Europe having less than 5% of the volumes of dead wood expected in natural conditions (WWF 2004) the need to increase quantities of dead wood is critical. Different forest types will naturally have different volumes and types of dead wood present. In unmanaged European broadleaved forests volumes of dead wood would be between 5 and 30 percent of the total timber volume, or 40 to 200 cubic metres per hectare. This contrasts sharply with an average of 8.5 cubic metres per hectare across Western Europe. Within Birch Wood the average volume is around 10m³ per hectare, whereas within the Plantations there is very little. Increasing the volume of dead wood when carrying out safety and silvicultural work should be a priority. However, the location of dead wood next to paths and tracks must be considered. Dead wood next to paths and tracks must be regularly monitored.

Table 2.3.1 Open space monitoring

Percentage of woodland that Actual percentage of the Desired percentage of the is open space as woodland that is open space. woodland that is open space recommended by the Forest by 2010. Stewardship Council. 10% 6% of Birch Wood 8% 10% 75% of Warren Vale is open Maintain current level space, 25% Plantations

Table 2.3.2 Dead wood monitoring

Recommended volume of Actual volume of dead wood Desired volume of dead wood dead wood in the woodland per hectare (m³/ha) by 2010 (m³/ha) (m³/ha) 50m³ 10m³ in Birch Wood 20m³ 50m³ 0.5m³ in the Plantations 15m³

All recorded UK and Regional BAP species of principle importance are listed in Table 2.3.3.

Table 2.3.3 Priority species

Species Rotherham List National List Habitat 45kHz Pipistrelle bat Yes Priority Mature Woodland Water vole Yes Priority Wetland areas Grey partridge Pasture & field margins Turtle dove Yes Priority Farmland and open woodland Skylark Yes Priority Grassland Song thrush Yes Priority Farmland and woodland Linnet Yes Priority Farmland, woodland and scrub Bullfinch Yes Priority Farmland, woodland and scrub Bluebell Yes Woodland

Table 2.3.4 Delivering National Criteria For Sustainable Forest Management At Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation

Criteria for National Level Indicators Evidence of National Criteria being delivered in the management plan Plan section Sustainability Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification is awarded on the basis that all elements of management including silviculture, health and Throughout safety, ecology, history, recreation, education and community involvement are appropriate, sustainable and all encompassing. the plan Nature Conservation Biodiversity in and around Nature conservation as a main objective for site management. 2.3, 4.4.3, in and around forests woods is conserved or 4.4.5 Enhanced All species of conservation importance will be maintained and protected. 2.3.3, 2.3.4

Species and habitats subject Guidance on biodiversity matters will be taken from the UK BAP, The 2.3.3 to EU Directives and The UK Rotherham BAP and English Nature. BAP are conserved or enhanced Where possible, woodland management will be timed for late July to 3.2.3 December period to reduce disturbance to wildlife.

All recorded species listed on the UK, Regional or Local BAP have been taken 2.3.2, 2.3.3, into account in the management plan. 4.3

Areas within the site are identified as wildlife refuges. 2.3.3

Important but previously Silvicultural management aims to develop a well structured woodland 4.4 disturbed Semi-natural sustainable over the long term. habitats are restore where practical Native species will be favoured where possible. 2.2, 4.4

Non-native, will be removed from areas of high conservation value and 2.2, 4.4

Rural Development invasive species (i.e. Japanese knotweed) will be removed from all known

areas

Opportunities are actively

being enhanced for each of

the criteria:

3.1.2

-rural development Woodland work such as footpath improvements, thinning and coppicing will be

carried out by local companies, generating income in the local economy. 1.2.7

Access and The woods contribute to the overall desirability of the area helping to attract recreation companies and tourism to the area. -access and recreation 4.4.5 Maintenance to the footpath network, including waymarking will improve the quality of access for users. 4.4.3 Regular safety inspections of trees, particularly close to footpaths. 4.4.5 Quality of life in and Installation and maintenance of site signs will make the woodland more around forest. welcoming to visitors. -quality of life 4.4.3, Regular removal of litter and fly tipping to continue to give the site a more cared for appearance. Increased awareness 4.4.6 and participation Support of police and community in attempts to combat anti-social activity. -increased awareness and 3.3.1 perception The woodland is included within the Heritage Lottery Fund Award ‘Fuelling a Revolution – The Woods that Founded the Steel Country’ Community 4.4.6 involvement. Birch Wood is promoted as community woods in the South Yorkshire Forest. -community involvement 4.4.6

Public Consultation with development of the management plan.

Other land uses 4.4.6

Support local people in taking an active part in the running of the site.

4.3 (all)

Conservation of A multifunctional and sustainable approach to land management will be heritage features adopted to ensure all land uses and interests are carefully integrated.

Important heritage features are 4.4.5

protected Prohibition of activities such as motorbike use that is causing surface damage

to the site.

4.4.9

Further research into land use history would be useful. Seek advice of South Landscape Quality Yorkshire Archaeology Service.

Due account is taken of 4.4.8 cultural, historic or designed Work will minimise impact on the landscape. Continuous cover forestry landscapes. techniques will be applied to the woodland. Forest soil condition 4.4.8

A full landscape assessment will be made of the site.

Forest soil condition is stable 3.2.3 or improving towards stable Silvicultural work will be carried out at the appropriate time of the year to (not to the detriment of minimise soil disturbance. Water condition important Semi-natural 4.4.5 habitats) Prohibition of activities such as motorbike use that is causing significant surface damage. Water quality is protected or 3.2.3 improved, water yields are Silvicultural work, especially felling, will take due account of the internal wet maintained above critical woodland areas and stream. Brash will be kept away from edges and a mix of levels and discharge patterns light and shade on the waters surface will be maintained. Air pollution and net are disturbed only when carbon sequestration unavoidable.

Net carbon sequestration by forests increases and air Where ever possible lop and top will not be burned, but will be chipped or 3.2.3 pollution is avoided mulched and left in the wood as dead wood habitat. Timber and other Management will ensure a good age class distribution of trees, including products promotion of coppicing, and conversion to high forest where appropriate.

Supply of timber and other 3.2.2 forest products for industrial Timber production is not a main objective, but where possible, recoverable use is available at the levels income will be used to offset the costs of management. indicated in long term 4.4 forecasts, or is increased Forestry workforce Any tree removed will be replaced by new regeneration to maintain long term without reducing annual competency and site potential. increment. safety

Safe and effective practices 3.2.3 are promoted and their All contractors working on site will have correct qualifications, training and effectiveness kept under experience. review. 4.4.6 Local community will be informed of forthcoming works.

3.2.3 Hazard signs will be positioned around the work area.

3 THE ADMINISTRATION AND ECONOMY

3.1.1 The administrative organisation

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations are owned by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council and managed by the Trees and Woodlands Section of Streetpride Services. Other Council services will be consulted on relevant issues as appropriate.

3.1.2. Labour

Several sources exist:

(a) Contractors - Tree work at the site is included within the Grounds Maintenance Contract. However, the organised felling of trees with a marketable value is excluded. Where this occurs, tenders will normally be invited for the work from forestry/timber merchant specialists. The grounds maintenance contractor will also be asked to quote using its own employees. Other large-scale management projects, for example, path surfacing and hedgelaying, will be tendered to contractors following normal procedure.

(b) Rotherham Borough Council direct labour

Services such as Streetpride or the Estate Team within the Education Culture and Leisure Service are available for a wide range of small scale projects including dead hedging, path maintenance, waymarking, rubbish removal and some access related works.

(c) Community involvement and volunteers - where appropriate, the use of volunteers will be encouraged, and co-ordinated by Trees and Woodlands, Streetpride Services.

(d) Economic and Development Services request support from other Programme Areas to finance projects from time to time. Other resources outside RMBC will be utilised as appropriate.

3.2 The Forest Industry

3.2.1 Markets, present and future

Prices vary greatly depending on the quantity and quality of the timber for sale, the current market conditions and the species. At present, there is a reasonably healthy market for the top grades of broadleaves. Prices for low-grade material slumped dramatically in the mid 1990’s as a result of cheap foreign imports, use or alternatives to timber such as UPVC and an increase in recycling of wood products. Timber markets are now showing some signs of recovery with a slight increase in timber prices. The developing market for timber as a biofuel to produce green energy is helping to increase the demand for timber.

Locally the South Yorkshire Forest Partnership is working to stimulate markets in and around South Yorkshire for biofuel, connecting growers to buyers.

3.2.2 Methods of sale

It is Council policy to sell timber "standing" following preliminary mensuration, i.e. the trees to be felled are marked by the Council’s staff, but all felling and extraction work is undertaken by a contractor. Each "parcel" to be felled/thinned is described individually, giving estimated number of trees (where appropriate) and estimated total volume. 3.2.3 Methods of conversion, extraction and transport

In most cases, timber removed from Birch Wood and Warren Plantation will be sold standing and hence conversion, extraction and transportation will be organised by the contractor, subject to the Council's conditions. Extraction routes through the site will be designated by Trees and Woodland and, subject to the other interests of the site, for example, avoiding disturbance to sensitive wildlife areas. The existing public rights of way and permissive bridle route will provide sufficient access.

All contractors working on the site will have to provide evidence of correct qualifications, training and experience. Adequate safety clothing to be worn at all times and hazard warning signs will be positioned around the work area. The local community will be warned of the timing of proposed works via letters, signs and press releases.

In each case, the methods of working expected of the contractor will be specified, for example, height of stump, disposal of lop and top, avoidance of damage to remaining trees, drains, ditches, streams, fences and walls, etc. Brash will not be burned where at all possible. Instead it will be either chipped or cut to 1-2m lengths and left in situ to degrade naturally.

All operations will take place from late summer to early winter where possible. Felling from late July onwards through to December avoids the wettest times of the year, reducing the potential for extraction damage. In addition, by working no earlier than these dates, birds will have bred and most plants flowered and set seed, reducing disturbance to wildlife.

Extraction routes will be agreed between the contractor and the Council prior to commencement of works. Rides and paths lying across areas of archaeological interest and those representing important wildlife areas will be avoided.

Choice of extraction machinery will be left to the contractor, in most cases. However, by specifying that the contractor will be liable to repair and pay for damage to paths, etc., caused by extraction machinery, the most appropriate technology should be utilised. (The use of forwarders – tractors which extract timber lifted entirely clear of the ground by a fitted loading crane, and carry the timber on a linked trailer or integral rear bunk, will be preferred to skidders – tractors which extract by lifting one end of the load clear of the ground and pull it out with the other end dragging on the ground, because damage to extraction routes will be considerably less).

Vehicular access to the different woodlands varies across the site (refer to Figure 1.5).

• Birch Wood is the most isolated woodland within the site. Vehicle access can be gained via Old Warren Vale, or from Hague Avenue, between numbers 68 and 70, and from here across the amenity grassland forming the western extension of the site, and into Birch Wood. This access point (see figure 4.2 and refer to table 1.3) is currently only provisioned with a gate for pedestrian access. The gate does not however prevent motorbike or horse access. The initial access point on Hague Avenue is narrow, and may not be suitable for timber haulage lorries to negotiate. On the other hand, this access provides a flat route into the woodland, and the large tarmac area to the rear of 70 Hague Avenue presents an ideal timber stacking area. The amenity grassland area is owned by Rotherham Borough Council and under the control of Housing Services.

• Access to Birch Wood, north of Collier Brook is very difficult although fortunately, the majority of the woodland lies to the south. Access alongside the adjoining field edge (owned by the Fitzwilliam Wentworth Estate) from the amenity grassland area may offer the best solution, subject to necessary agreement with, and very possibly compensation to, the Estate. Due to the limited area of woodland here, and the small number of trees likely to be felled for safety / regeneration purposes in this block, an alternative option is to leave felled trees in-situ, as deadwood habitat, keeping expenditure to a minimum.

Access to Warren Vale Plantation can be gained through a metal field gate off Old Warren Vale although boulders are currently in place in front of the gate. Access to Birch Wood is also possible via Warren Vale Plantation.

3.3 Sources of grant aid

At present, there are several sources of grant aid available for works connected with this management plan. However, dual funding is not possible where another statutory body is funding the same operations at a site.

3.3.1 Heritage National Lottery Fund Award

Between 2000 and 2006 a total of £19,331 has been awarded to Rotherham MBC to restore Birch Wood. The Award includes bringing the wood back into silvicultural management, restoring site boundaries, and interpretative materials and events. The HLF Award contains strict guidelines on the tendering and contracting for the works included in the HLF Award. These included inviting at least 3 tenders for large scale silvicultural works and at least 3 written quotations for smaller scale works over £500. Works under £500 may be completed ‘in-house’ by the Councils Estate Teams. Full details of the requirements for contracts and tenders required by the HLF are found in the Statement of Intent for the Award (Appendix 5).

3.3.2 Forestry Commission - Woodland Grant Scheme

The site was included in a Forestry Commission Woodland Grant Scheme contract in January 2001. This WGS will run for the same duration as the HLF Award, expiring on 31 March 2006. The current rates of grant are £35 per hectare for Annual Management, Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation received payment as a lump payment of £647.5 for the five years in 2003. As Birch Wood is an ancient woodland site and contains a linear stretch of wet woodland, a UK and local BAP priority habitat, further funding through Woodland Improvement Grant (WIG) for biodiversity may be available. WIG will meet a percentage of the costs of agreed works to manage subsidiary habitats in woodlands.

Natural regeneration is also eligible for grant aiding. Regeneration may be eligible for grant if appropriate numbers of trees have established. Payment can be claimed when adequate stocking has been achieved, i.e. trees 30-45 cm tall, healthy and well-established and at least 1100 trees per hectare. If there is some existing natural regeneration but further work is required to ensure it becomes established woodland, it may qualify for a discretionary payment.

A new application will be made in 2006 to the new England Woodland Grant Scheme to ensure the woodland continues to receive all eligible funding.

3.3.3 English Nature Local Nature Reserve Grants

Grant aid may be available for certain works at Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations from English Nature through the funding for Local Nature Reserves. This will be investigated during the Plan period. However, work currently funded by WGS will not be eligible.

3.3.4 South Yorkshire Forest Partnership

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation lies within the South Yorkshire Forest area, one of twelve, government approved ‘Community Forest’ areas in England. A number of small grants are available for woodlands within the South Yorkshire Forest and woodlands within the Community Forest area are recognised as priorities by the Forestry Commission for

Woodland Grant Schemes. The Heritage Lottery Fund Award was put together by the South Yorkshire Forest Partnership and is restricted to ancient woodlands in the Forest Area.

4. AIMS, OBJECTIVES AND MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS

4.1 Summary of present position

4.1.1 Silviculture

Birch Wood is a presumed, though modified, semi-natural ancient woodland. It is characterised by an open canopy of mature sycamore, with Sessile oak and beech. Unfortunately, vandalism has reduced the long-term prospects of many of the mature trees, with decay of varying degrees present. Young natural regeneration is locally abundant.

In the long-term, consideration should be given to the restoration of this area back to predominantly semi-natural woodland vegetation. (English Nature’s Coal Measures Natural Area Profile has highlighted the potential conflicts between introduced species and management for nature conservation).

A series of young plantations lie across the eastern half of Warren Vale. Established in the 1970s, these new woodland areas are generally densely spaced and would benefit from a thinning programme. This would promote healthy tree development, timber producing potential and structural diversity in the long-term with benefits for wildlife.

4.1.2 Nature conservation

Birch Wood is presumed to be ancient in origin. Ancient semi-natural woodland is a declining habitat of natural importance, with only 1.5 – 3% of the Coal Measures Natural Area still supporting this habitat. The whole site is a local nature reserve. The site lies on the edge of Rawmarsh, linking into the well-wooded countryside of the Wentworth Estate. This aside, ancient woodland is rare and fragmented in the local vicinity, increasing the importance of Birch Wood. Birch Wood is dominated by the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) community W10, oak-birch woodland which is a priority habitat in the LBAP. The wet woodland alongside Collier Brook is identified as a UK and Local BAP priority habitat. The small marshland area in Birch Wood also increases the habitat diversity of the ancient woodland site.

The number of natural history surveys carried out in recent years as part of the Heritage Lottery Fund Award indicate that Birch Wood is of local importance for wildlife. The instances of vandalism and high recreation do however affect the wildlife value of the site. Overall, the site supports a reasonable number of plants including characteristic species of woodlands in the Coal Measures Natural Area and indicator species of ancient semi natural woodland including bluebells which are identified as species of conservation concern in the UK BAP.

In relation to faunal species present, survey information shows a fairly typical woodland bird fauna for the area. Further investigation into the woodland invertebrate, amphibian and mammal interest is presently being carried out by the Council’s Biological Records centre.

Watervole and pipistrelle bat have been recorded in Birch Wood both are UK and Local BAP priority species and are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Song thrush has also been recorded from the site in the last decade. This is a priority species on the UK (BAP). A number of other birds regularly recorded at the site are identified in the UK BAP as species of conservation concern.

A bat survey undertaken by Sheffield Bat Group in August 2004 produced some disappointing results. The findings were limited to a small number of pipistrelles. This does not, of course, mean that the woodland is not host to a greater diversity of species, only that there was limited activity on the survey days. However, the bat roost site potential of the woodland was noted as poor in the survey. The tree species composition limited potential for

40 larger invertebrates such as moths, the preferred food source of long-eared bats that pick up moths from leaves and noctules that feed high overhead. This reaffirms the importance of improving the dead wood habitat and open space provision in the woodland.

4.1.3 Recreation and access

Birch Wood and adjoining Warren Vale provide a variety of opportunities for recreation and enjoyment of the countryside for the local community. Birch Wood and Warren Vale represent the most readily accessible woodland for the population of Rawmarsh and Upper Haugh, whilst the local public rights of way network provides links from the site to the wider countryside of the Wentworth area immediately north of Birch Wood. The Public Rights of Way Unit in Streetpride have produced a series of Door Step Walks throughout Rotherham, however, there are no door step walks at present that include Birch Wood or Warren Vale. Whilst several of the definitive footpaths in the woodland were surfaced and waymarked in 1993, and the site access points and boundaries are generally secure, vandalism, including firing of mature trees, illegal tree felling and injury, and air-rifle shooting have been considerable problems in the past. However, these problems appear to be less significant at present. Littering and garden refuse does continue to be a problem. Awareness raising of problems within the local community combined with regular maintenance works and the support of the Police is required to adequately solve these problems.

4.1.4 Archaeology and historic interest

The woodlands contain no known features of archaeological importance. Birch Wood is presumed ancient woodland. However its past history is poorly understood. Further research into the land-use history of Birch Wood would be useful.

4.1.5 Landscape

Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations are a prominent part of the local landscape, particularly for nearby residents. Birch Wood represents one of the few areas to be unaffected by residential development, and an important remnant of the historic landscape. It is important that all works are undertaken in ways that minimise the impact on the landscape.

4.1.6 Community involvement

The local community has a mostly positive interest in the site and surrounding countryside, and this should be built upon to increase their involvement in the care and management of the woodland. This will be particularly important for reducing the problems with antisocial behaviour.

4.1.7 Education and interpretation

A number of events have taken place in Birch Wood during the course of the Heritage Lottery Fund Award. These have included a Walk in the Woods Day in the spring. An event was prepared to coincide with the installation of the new footbridge over the brook. Public events take place in conjunction with national events such as Tree Week in November. The close proximity of three schools and Rosehill Park to the woodland provide an excellent opportunity to use the woodland as an educational resource.

4.2 General Policy of the Council

Council policies relating to woodland management are set down in the statutory Green Belt and Unitary Development Plan documents (June 1999) (see appendix 2.4). More specific policies relating to woodland management are contained in the non-statutory Council policy CS8 (Countryside Study, 1989) which is set down below:

POLICY CS8

THE BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL IN RESPECT OF TREES AND WOODLANDS IN ITS OWNERSHIP, PROMOTE, MANAGE AND SUSTAIN A HEALTHY AND SECURE STOCK OF TREES AND WOODLANDS WHILE RECOGNISING THE IMPORTANCE OF PREVIOUS MANAGEMENT HISTORY AND ENSURE THAT THE SPECIAL FEATURES, IN PARTICULAR, THE CONSERVATION HISTORICAL, AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST OF THE SEMI-NATURAL ANCIENT WOODLANDS, ARE RECOGNISED AND PROTECTED.

4.3 Aims and Objectives of Management

The following aims and objectives of management for Birch Wood and the Warren Vale Plantations have been formulated in accordance with CS8, the UK Forestry Standard (Forest Commission, 2004) the Coal Measures Natural Area Profile (English Nature, 1997), the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (HMSO, 1995) and the South Yorkshire Forest Plan (2002).

Aim1: To ensure appropriate sustainable management of Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation by developing a diverse woodland structure dominated by appropriate locally native species.

Objectives

• To promote an uneven-aged and diverse structure composed primarily of native tree and shrub species within these woodlands, through selective felling of mature trees and promotion of natural regeneration.

• To favour native tree and shrub species typical of the Coal Measures Natural Area during all woodland operations.

• To promote and utilise natural regeneration wherever possible in providing new trees. Otherwise to use plants of local provenance and preferably from semi-natural parent trees.

• To maintain a mix of sunny and shady conditions along the water course by occasional selective felling of trees.

• To manage the Warren Vale Plantations in conjunction with the neighbouring open space to maximise the ecological benefits of the site as a whole.

• To ensure all forestry operations meet the criteria for sustainable forest management as laid out in the UK Forestry Standard.

Aim 2: To conserve and promote the semi-natural characteristics and natural history of the woodland and associated habitats, in accordance with the UK and Local Biodiversity Action Plan, the Coal Measures Natural Area Profile, the site’s Local Nature Reserve status and UK Forestry Standard.

Objectives

• To promote a more structurally diverse woodland favouring locally native tree species by appropriate silvicultural operations, this will benefit associated fungi, invertebrates, birds, amphibians and mammals.

• To identify gaps in the ecological information available for the site and carry out ecological surveys to increase the knowledge base e.g. bird, invertebrate and bat surveys. Encourage local naturalists to visit and record the site to achieve this.

• To identify, protect and where possible enhance or expand any UK or Local BAP priority habitats (Wet woodland & oak-birch woodland) or species populations present.

• To retain standing and fallen deadwood wherever possible, including representatives of each of the native species found on site, to levels suggested by WWF, promoting associated fungi, invertebrates, hole-nesting birds and bats.

• To maintain or increase the wildlife value of the marshland and wetland areas in Birch Wood and control any non-native invasive species in the woodland.

• To monitor the effects of restoration management on the important species and habitats present at the site and amend management practices if appropriate.

Aim 3: To provide for safe and appropriate public access and recreation.

Objectives

• To ensure formal access points are secured and maintained with appropriate access furniture allowing for access to those of all abilities, and to discourage the use of informal entries.

• To maintain Forestry Commission ‘Walkers Welcome’ signs ensuring the woodland remains welcoming to visitors.

• To maintain waymarking and surfacing of the main footpaths throughout the woodland and rationalise the casual footpath network where necessary.

• To maintain secure site boundaries to prevent access to the site for inappropriate activities (e.g. motorbikes).

• To maintain in a safe condition the footbridges over Collier Brook.

• To undertake any necessary tree safety works, and to ensure that all access structures, public rights of way, etc., comply with the appropriate health and safety legislation.

● To carryout a full safety assessment of the site and produce a site safety plan.

Aim 4: To actively involve the community in the care and management of the woodland. To develop the site as an educational resource, and to encourage the enjoyment and appreciation of wildlife and nature conservation by the community.

Objectives

• To consult the local community, specialist interest and other user groups during the preparation and implementation of the management plan and prior to major management

works taking place.

• To promote Birch Wood as a community woodland within the South Yorkshire Forest and a Heritage Woodland within the South Yorkshire Forest.

• To support and develop active community involvement in the care and management of the site.

• To produce an interpretative leaflet for the site to increase visitors awareness of the value of the site.

• To organise practical management tasks to involve the local community and volunteer groups, where appropriate.

• To encourage visitors to continue reporting any concerns or problems at the site, acting as the "eyes and ears" of the Authority.

Aim 5: To encourage more research into the archaeological and historic importance of Birch Wood.

Objectives:

• Encourage archaeological research of the woodland area to improve knowledge of any potential historic and archaeological importance of the site.

• Continue to consult and involve South Yorkshire Archaeology Service on proposed management of the woodland.

Aim 6: To conserve and promote the benefits associated with Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations in respect of personal well being and sense of place.

Objectives:

• To promote the woodland as a valuable setting for taking regular exercise to enable healthier lifestyles to improve the Borough’s poor health statistics.

• To develop access and awareness of the natural, cultural and historic features of the site to improve the sense of place and identity for individuals and local communities.

Aim 7: To perpetuate and promote the predominantly broadleaved character and place of the woodland in the landscape value.

Objectives

• To encourage native tree and shrub species typical of ancient woodland within the Coal Measures Natural Area, in particular Sessile oak, silver birch, wild cherry, hazel and holly.

• To minimise the landscape impact of felling and regeneration works, protecting the amenity afforded by the woodland.

• To complete a landscape assessment for the woodland.

Aim 8: To maximise income to offset expenditure.

Objectives

• Subject to the interests of wildlife, access, recreation, and landscape, income from the sale of produce resulting from agreed silvicultural operations will be maximised.

• To maximise grant aid and investigate alternative sources of funding.

4.4 Management Prescriptions

The aims and objectives will be achieved by the following management prescriptions. (See section 5.1: Management Implementation for further details): The advice laid out by the UK Forestry Standard for the management of semi-natural woodlands will be followed where possible (Appendix 2.3). The proposed thinning operations will be programmed to be completed before the end of the WGS agreement.

4.4.1. The Woodland Habitats

Birch Wood

Compartment 3F (a)

The programme of selective felling will be continued in Birch Wood during the plan period to remove and make safe dangerous trees close to main paths and adjoining property. Additional selective felling of semi-mature to mature trees, mainly beech and sycamore, along the southern edge of the woodland will enlarge the three existing regeneration glades to a size of between 0.1 and 0.2 hectares. Advanced regeneration in these glades will be released by the felling, giving the young trees more light to develop. Figure 2.1, Vegetation Management, identifies the existing glades and identifies areas where tree removal will take place. The felling will also create a more graded edge to the woodland with shrubs species. This will improve the diversity of the woodland, providing added shelter, protection and food sources for birds and mammals. Ten semi-mature to mature trees will either be felled or topped on the edges of the existing groups identified in figure 1.2. A further five trees, approximately, will be felled behind numbers 122 and 136 Hague Avenue to help create the graded woodland edge along this section of the boundary where no small group felling is taking place.

This work will be done in the first year of the plan, see section 5.1 Management Implementation.

Where required, released regeneration will be singled or coppiced and respaced as necessary to promote healthy tree development. Opening of the canopy will also encourage further natural regeneration to take place. Where necessary, dead hedging and other natural barriers will be erected to prevent undue disturbance to developing areas of young trees on steep ground.

Due to the ancient woodland status of the site only locally native trees and shrubs will be encouraged where possible such as Sessile oak, silver birch, wild cherry, rowan, wych elm, hazel, hawthorn, crab apple and holly. However, where other broadleaved species, for example, beech form the only regeneration, these will generally be accepted because of the difficulties of establishing new trees at this woodland. Enrichment planting to beat-up natural regeneration may be considered in future plan periods, using only plants of local provenance, if insufficient numbers of naturally regenerating trees are not achieved. However, increased light levels in parts of the woodland where felling has taken place in the last ten years appears to be allowing regeneration to take place.

Compartment 3F (b and c) Wet woodland

The compartment running either side of the watercourse will be managed on a low

45 intervention management basis. This section of woodland is valuable at supporting a number of wetland associated plants and invertebrate species. The light levels reaching the water course shall be monitored over the course of the 5 year plan period with a view to removing selected trees from the stream edge in the next plan period to allow additional light to reach the watercourse.

Warren Vale

Compartment 3A

A gentle thinning programme will be introduced to the maturing woodland block adjoining Old Warren Vale highway, combined with the creation of several small canopy openings within which a new generation of trees can be established, by planting in this case. Canopy gaps totalling 0.1 hectares will be established during this plan period. The small stand of mature hybrid poplar within this plantation will be removed during this plan period, and replaced by planting of native broadleaves. The thinning will focus on the removal of suppressed and poorly formed trees. There are a number of trees that are poorly formed with low, heavy branches and no definite leader. Because of the considerable variation in the species and condition of trees in the stand, thinning will be of a selective nature rather than line thinning. The priority for selection will be to ensure the remaining trees have a sufficient envelope around them to allow growth for another ten years before thinning will be required again. The work will also will also benefit the development of a field and shrub layer.

A mixture of locally native species will be planted as replacements in this area. New trees will be protected by rabbit guards and kept weed free during establishment years.

Compartments 3B and C

A thinning programme will be introduced into these 1975 mixed plantations. Thinning will improve stand quality by ensuring that future increment is concentrated on the best-formed trees and promote healthy crown-development. In time, thinning will also encourage the development of a shrub layer by allowing more light into the woodland.

Due to the high nature conservation status of the site overall, thinning will favour predominantly locally native tree species. It is proposed that these areas be thinned every 10 years following the first thinning operation. The thinning adopted in these 2 compartments will be selective thinning for the reasons described for compartment 3A above.

Compartments 3D and E

These compartments have grown less well than compartments 3A, B and C. Compartments 3D and E will be managed in the same way as 3B and 3C, the work will not however commence until the next five year plan of operations.

A National Grid power line passes over sub compartment 3D. Although there is considerable clearance of the power lines at present, a parcel will be coppiced in year 3 of the plan. This will allow a rotation to be established under the lines, eliminating the need to coppice the entire strip in one operation in the future. The area will be coppiced in three 20 metres parcels.

4.4.2 Boundary and access management

The boundaries to the woodland, particularly the Warren Vale Plantations are large due to the compartmentalised nature of the plantings. The boundaries with the adjoining land are not demarcated. The adjoining land is however in Rotherham Borough Council Ownership

46 and is quite well secured to prevent access for inappropriate users.

In Birch Wood the eastern half of the northern boundary is demarcated by a post and wire fence, the western half of the same boundary is demarcated by the water course. The western boundary is demarcated by a post and wire fence. These fences must be maintained in accordance with the condition attached to the purchase of the land.

Access by inappropriate users into the woodland along the western boundary from the open grassland area adjoining the woodland is more of a problem. The locked gate into Birch Wood from the adjoining open grassland area prevents all but pedestrian access.

Vehicular access into Birch Wood for timber extraction is limited, primarily due to the topography of the wood. Access into much of Warren Vale from Old Warren Vale Road is good. Access into Birch Wood is also possible from here, however, it is a considerable distance to travel to Birch Wood with the potential for a lot of extraction damage if ground conditions are wet. It is however the flattest route with the widest paths. It may also be possible to negotiate an access route over the neighbouring private land with the owner.

4.4.3 Over-mature and dead trees

Many species of wildlife are dependent on dead and decaying wood. Standing dead and rotting wood provides nesting sites for hole-nesting birds, roosts for bats, and homes for specialist invertebrates. Dead wood is also important for fungi. Apart from providing wildlife habitat, old trees and dead wood can have considerable intrinsic appeal and add diversity to the woodland structure. For these reasons, a proportion of trees within the various woodland areas will be retained indefinitely throughout the woodland and allowed to develop to over- maturity and natural senescence. The trees chosen will be away from definitive and casual well-used paths, and formal access points.

Veteran trees can require quite specialist attention, particularly when senescence is well developed, to ensure they provide the maximum benefits associated with them. Light levels are important in veteran tree management and minimum light levels can be critical depending on the condition and vigour of individual trees. It is also beneficial for different invertebrate species living in the dead wood of these trees if both cool, shaded and warm sunny areas are maintained. Management may require pollarding or careful pruning that is quite specific to individual trees. English Nature’s guidelines Veteran Trees: A Guide to Good Management will be followed in the management of these trees. Where necessary, footpaths will be diverted away from these trees to prevent safety conflicts rather than carrying out remedial tree work which is often the preferred option

Where possible, dead wood, both fallen and standing will be left where it is to undergo natural decay processes. Large diameter timber is particularly valuable, and where possible, will be left uncut. At present the volume of large standing and fallen dead wood in Birch Wood is quite high for the size of the woodland. Dead wood within the Warren Vale Plantation is quite scarce owing to their young age. As such, a small proportion of timber felled during forestry operations in these woodland blocks will be retained on site.

Trees selected for long term retention will include a variety of species of varied form and condition. Large diameter timber is particularly valuable and, where possible, will be left uncut. The richest fauna is supported by material in partial shade. However, a mixture of dead wood in sunlight, partial and full shade, and in wet and dry conditions is best (Kirby, 1992). Most of the proposed felling will either be left as standing or fallen dead wood. Standing dead wood will be individually tagged and recorded allowing better records to be maintained of old and veteran trees in the woodland. Tagging will also assist in undertaking wildlife surveys and will provide a better safety monitoring record for the older trees in the woodland.

The scope to leave standing dead wood in Warren Vale will be limited due to the young age of the trees. Therefore, the volumes of dead wood in Warren Vale will be increased by the creation of habitat piles constructed of approximately 1 metre lengths of timber arising from the thinning operations in the plantations. There is more scope in Birch Wood to create standing dead wood from larger diameter trees. Approximately 5 larger trees selected as part of the silvicultural operations will be topped at between 4 and 6 metres. These trees will be in suitable locations that will not affect properties or footpaths.

4.4.4 Site safety

Listed below are a number of features or circumstances that may have implications for the safety of site users and how these issues should be managed. Because of the potentially dangerous natural features at the site, in particular the watercourse, a site safety plan will be written to ensure that dangers are properly considered and the issues adequately addressed. This will be written in year two of the plan. A preliminary site hazard plan has been produced (see figure 1.7). a) Dangerous trees

All trees close to definitive and well-used paths, and formal access points, will be inspected annually for signs of disease and damage. Those trees close to these areas showing clear signs of disease and damage will be inspected every six months and after storms. Trees away from these areas will be inspected during routine visits, whenever possible. Action will be taken as required. The Council may be liable for any damage caused where its trees adjoin private property. Appropriate action will be taken as necessary. b) Natural features – slopes

Footpath maintenance may be necessary in steep sloping sections of the woodland so as to limit erosion and maintain the paths in a safe condition for site users. Steps will be maintained and sections of paths surfaced where problems are identified. c) Natural features – watercourse and wet woodland area

Most of the well used permissive or the definitive footpaths are located away from the watercourse. The main exceptions being the two crossing points over the brook. The bridges will be inspected regularly and repaired when necessary to maintain the crossing points in a safe condition. Any permissive paths near to the water edge will be rationalised to discourage access to the water and wet areas. This will be properly considered in the site safety plan to be written in year two. d) Overhead power lines

A National Grid power line passes over compartment 3D in Warren Vale. There is a statutory obligation to maintain a safe clear distance between the trees and the lines. Trees below and adjacent to the power lines must be pruned or coppiced as appropriate to maintain the clear distance. This is often done by the National Grid following inspection be their field wardens. Any work should be done in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive’s safe working practices; Electricity at Work: Forestry and Arboriculture.

e) Manmade hazards

Due mainly to the topography of Birch Wood, rope swings appear from time to time on trees over the steep slopes and over the watercourse. These can be a hazard if secured to weak limbs or if unsuitable rope is used. Any rope swings found in the wood will be removed. Encampments and associated fires in this woodland have not been a particular problem to

48 date. However camps can attract problems associated with drug taking and the associated drugs litter. Any camps will be dismantled by the council and drugs litter removed as described below. f) Flytipping and dangerous rubbish

Flytipping will be removed by the estate team or the grounds maintenance contractor. In the case of dangerous waste advice will be taken from Environmental Health and disposal carried out promptly by appropriately trained staff. In the case of drugs litter, this will be removed within three hours at any time of day or night, seven days a week. g) Fire plan

A Fire plan for all Council owned woodland and other countryside sites was produced by the then Culture, Countryside and Amenities Services in consultation with the South Yorkshire Fire Service. A fire plan location and access map for Birch Wood and Warren Vale has been prepared. The main access points are identified in Figure 1.5 with a description of the access provisions at each point on page 24.

4.4.5 Sustainability & biodiversity

Any UK, regional and local BAP priority woodland habitats present in Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation will be managed (see Table 2.3) to meet the sustainable forest management criteria laid out in the UK Forestry Standard (2004) whilst taking into account the guidelines laid out in the Forestry Commission Practice Guides for the management of semi-natural woodlands of each type. Sustainable management should bring habitat improvements and an overall enhancement in biodiversity at the site to benefit a range of species. Water voles are suspected, in the past, to have been present in the woodland. Water vole habitat is currently protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act and the law may soon be changed to protect the mammals themselves. A water vole survey should therefore be carried out during the course of the plan.

Monitoring of management implementation will provide useful information to feed into the Rotherham BAP monitoring process and into the UKBAP reporting system.

4.4.6 Access and recreation

The existing access points and permissive and definitive footpath network throughout Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation provide good opportunity for pedestrians to enjoy the amenity of the woodland. The path net work in Birch Wood is limited to the rights of way and some main discretionary paths. The topography and wet areas limits the opportunity for additional path creation. In Warren Vale however there is greater potential for additional discretionary paths to be created with the areas being much flatter. The plantations are well served at present by footpaths with no need for additional footpath creation. If, during visits to the plantations over the five years of the plan, additional paths are being established, these will be rationalised to maintain an acceptable balance between providing access and refuge for wildlife.

Recreational activities and access are felt to be having only a limited impact on the woodland and its wildlife at present. However, erosion damage to the steep slope on the southern side of the wood as a result of mountain biking is a continuing problem. The damage caused by motorbikes has reduced considerably following the implementation of boundary control measures in recent years. Hopefully the reduced erosion pressures and increased light reaching the woodland floor following felling will allow bramble and young regeneration to increase providing a natural barrier in the future.

Problems of antisocial behaviour continue to cause concerns, particularly close to residential

49 areas. An on-site presence by council staff can alleviate these to an extent, but continual awareness raising in the wider community, together with support from the police is required to keep these problems to a manageable level. The speedy removal of fly-tipping and signs of vandalism help to give the woodland a welcoming and cared for atmosphere, and reduce the build-up of further problems. It is important that this is maintained.

The installation of waymarking posts, Forestry Commission Walkers Welcome signs and Rotherham Borough Council ‘welcome to’ signs help to create a welcoming feel to the woodland.

There are no proposals to install seating or interpretative signs in the woodland during this plan period. With most of the main footpath network in Birch Wood being close to residential properties it is not proposed to install any more seating in Birch Wood. Seating close to properties can lead to complaints of noise and litter associated with congregating groups. For the same reasons, seating is not proposed in sub compartments 3A, 3B and 3C. There may however be opportunity to install some seating on the edge of sub compartment 3D or 3E if there is a desire expressed by woodland visitors.

The proximity of the woodland to Rosehill Park provides ideal opportunity to promote wider access to public open space. Visitors to Rosehill Park have the opportunity to extend their visit with a walk into Warren Vale, Birch Wood and the wider countryside of Wentworth on the public rights of way. Similarly, walkers from Wentworth could extend their visit into Rosehill Park. Closer working with the park manager and rangers would help promote links.

4.4.7 Education & interpretation

Schools work The woodland’s value as an educational resource has been well developed with local schools during the five years of the HLF award. Visits by classes to the woodland have taken place in conjunction with work in the classroom. In addition, local schools have received an educational pack from South Yorkshire Forest that contains advice and activities about woodland education. This was produced as part of the HLF award. It is hoped that the awareness raised in schools by this part of the award will continue to generate interest and the woodland will continue to be used as an education resource.

The close proximity of three schools, two primary and one infant, to the woodland presents good opportunity for out door class room learning. The schools are in easy walking distance of the woodland. Education packs for teachers were produced as part of the HLF award. The packs give teachers mathematical, language, art, science and physical exercises to complete with pupils.

Events A series of public events will also take place, linking in with national events such as Tree Week (last week in November) and Walk in the Woods Day (in May). The Wentworth area is host to a number of Walking Festival Walks and a Doorstep Walk. Although none are routed through Birch Wood or Warren Vale at present there is an opportunity to extend existing walks or create new walks to include the woodland. Any events held in the woodland are advertised in the Walking Festival and the Green Spaces Events Guides as well as being held on the Trees and Woodland events register.

Leaflets, panels and other ‘permanent’ interpretation At present the site has site name signs and there is a Local Nature Reserve Sign, but no other permanent onsite interpretation materials are present. Birch Wood was included in a leaflet with Wath and Boyd Royd Wood. This provides some historic information about the site and useful contacts for obtaining more information about the woodland.

4.4.8 Community involvement

Community involvement in the care and management of Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation is currently limited. Awareness of the woods has however increased over the last 5 years with events programmed as part of the HLF Award for Birch Wood. Consultation with the local community, Area Assemblies and interest groups concerning the management proposals within this management plan will increase this awareness. Consultation will continue as implementation of the plan proceeds. It is essential that any management works carried out in the woodland have the support of the local community and other interested groups.

Practical, hands-on involvement will be encouraged where appropriate for local groups such as tasks like coppicing, dead-hedging and wildlife surveys.

Reporting of anti-social behaviour, vandalism and illegal access by off-road vehicles will continue to be encouraged by the local community. These reports are important for the Council and South Yorkshire Police to maintain an accurate picture of the problems in the area so that action can continue to be taken.

4.4.9 Landscape

Management proposals such as felling will be visible from some localities outside the woodland, but the visual impact will depend on the location and size of the work proposed.

Some changes in the visual appearance of the woodland, especially from within, will continue to occur as further felling and improvements in the age-class structure are undertaken and areas of young regeneration grow, develop and are manipulated to encourage a mixed broadleaved woodland.

The biggest consideration is the proposed felling on the southern edge of the woodland. Essential safety work in previous years has already removed some mature beech from this edge. The proposed felling on the edge must ensure there is sufficient tree cover behind to minimise the impact of tree removal on the skyline from out with the woodland. From within the woodland a graded edge with shrubs and ground flora will improve the internal landscape of the woodland.

4.4.10 Archaeology and historic interest

Although Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantation contain no known features of archaeological interest, the presence of the Roman Ridge close by would infer that features or artefacts of importance may be found within the site. Further investigation by local archaeology groups such as Hunter Archaeological Society would be welcomed.

4.4.11 Ecological survey and monitoring

Recording and survey work has taken place over the 20 years in Birch Wood and Warren Vale Plantations with quite an extensive range of flora and fauna species recorded at the two sites. Repeat surveys will be carried out, particularly for species that are identified in the local BAP, or as threatened rare or declining species at a local, regional or national level. To ensure up to date species records are available specialist surveys of particular interest groups (birds, plants, fungi, invertebrates and mammals) will be periodically commissioned.

The effects of management over the period of the plan on habitat quality will be monitored photographically. Photographs will be taken of the woodland as it is at present and repeated over the five years of the plan, and beyond, to record the affects of management. Monitoring of this nature is also a requirement of the HLF Award for Birch Wood. Further ecological survey work will be undertaken as management works proceed (see section 5. The restoration programme: management implementation).

Survey and monitoring of the wet woodland areas will be carried out during the five years of the plan period to assess the need for tree removal next to the water course in the following five year plan period.

The effects of management works on visitor perception of how the quality and user friendliness of the woodland has improved will be conducted. This will be done towards the end of the first five year plan to allow the effects of management to become apparent and in time for comments and views to be considered in the 2010 to 2015 plan.

5. MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION

5.1 The Restoration Programme: Management Implementation

Silvicultural Works Comps Years 1 2 3 4 5 Essential tree safety works. All 9 9 9 9 3 Thinning and extraction of timber. 3B&C 9 Fell poplar stand and thin adjoining 3A 9 sycamore plantation. Replant with native broad-leaves. Weed and maintain the newly planted area. 3A 9 9 9 Coppicing under powerlines 3D 9 Selective felling of 15 mature trees along the 3F 9 southern boundary creating gaps to release regeneration.

Access Works Comps Years 1 2 3 4 5 Strimming and mowing of footpath edges All 9 9 9 9 9 Maintain and repair access furniture across All 9 9 9 9 9 the site as necessary.

Other Site Improvements Comps Years 1 2 3 4 5 Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren 3A 9 9 9 9 Vale. Removal of rubbish from within the woodland All 9 9 9 9 9 and any fly tipping at woodland edges.

Survey, Plans and Consultation Comps Years 1 2 3 4 5 Consultation on the preparation of the All 9 9 management plan. Bat survey prior to thinning and felling 3A, 9 9 B,C&F Undertake invertebrate survey in Birch Wood 3F 9 Carryout soil assessments in Warren Vale B,C,D & E 9 Plantation for structure and nutrient availability. Monitor wet woodland area 3F 9 9 Undertake water vole survey 3F 9 Prepare site safety plan. All 9 Photographic monitoring of the site. 3F 9 9 9 9 9 Monitoring and review of the impacts of the All 9 restoration programme

5.2 Annual Work Programmes (years 1- 5)

Annual Work Programme Year One – April 2005 to March 2006 (HLF 6)

April May June July August September October November December January February March Silvicultural works Tree safety works. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Selective felling of 15 mature trees, including standing dead wood 9 creation, along southern side of Birch Wood to create regeneration glades. Access works Strimming and mowing of footpath edges. 9 9 Maintain, repair and replace access furniture as necessary across the site. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Other Site Improvements Removal of rubbish from within the woodland and any fly tipping at 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 woodland edges. Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren Vale Plantation. 9 Survey, Plans and Consultation Consultation on the preparation of the management plan. 9 9 Undertake invertebrate survey within Birch Wood. 9 Bat survey prior to felling 9 Photographic monitoring of the site. 9 9 9 9

Annual Work Programme Year Two – April 2006 to March 2007

April May June July August September October November December January February March Silvicultural works Tree safety works. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Fell poplar stand and thin adjoining sycamore plantation creating a total of 9 0.1 ha in canopy gaps. Replant with mixed native broadleaves e.g. Sessile oak, rowan, silver birch, holly and hawthorn. Thin s.cpts 3b and 3c. Extract timber. 9 Access Strimming and mowing of footpath edges 9 9 Maintain, repair and replace access furniture as necessary across the site. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Other Site Improvements Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren Vale Plantation. 9 Removal of rubbish from within the woodland and any fly tipping at 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 woodland edges. Survey and Plans Bat survey prior to thinning 9 Undertake water vole survey 9 Monitoring and survey of the wet woodland area 9 Photographic monitoring of the site. 9 9 9 9

Annual Work Programme Year Three – April 2007 to March 2008

April May June July August September October November December January February March Silvicultural works Tree safety works. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Weed and maintain newly planted area. 9 9 Coppicing of a section of woodland under powerlines. 9 Access works Strimming and mowing of footpath edges 9 9 Maintain, repair and replace access furniture as necessary across the site. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Other Site Improvements Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren Vale Plantation. 9 Removal of rubbish from within the woodland and any fly tipping at 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 woodland edges. Survey and Plans Photographic monitoring of the site. 9 9 9 9 Carryout soil assessment in Warren Vale Plantation for structure and 9 9 nutrient availability Undertake site safety plan 9

Annual Work Programme Year Four – April 2008 to March 2009

April May June July August September October November December January February March Silvicultural works Tree safety work. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Weed and maintain newly planted area. 9 9 Access works Strimming and mowing of footpath edges 9 9 Maintain, repair and replace access furniture as necessary across the site. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Other Site Improvements Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren Vale Plantation. 9 Removal of rubbish from within the woodland and any fly tipping at 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 woodland edges. Survey and Plans Photographic monitoring of the site. 9

Annual Work Programme Year Five – April 2009 to March 2010

April May June July August September October November December January February March Silvicultural works Tree safety works. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Weed and maintain newly planted area. 9 Access Strimming and mowing of footpath edges. 9 9 Maintain, repair and replace access furniture as necessary across the site. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Other Site Improvements Spraying of Japanese knotweed in Warren Vale Plantation. 9 Removal of rubbish from within the woodland and any fly tipping at 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 woodland edges. Survey and Plans Consultation on the preparation of the revised management plan. 9 9 Monitor and review the impacts of management on the site. 9 9 9 Monitoring and survey of the wet woodland area 9 Photographic monitoring of the site. 9

5.3 Forestry Operations (Years 1-5)

S.cpt Spp P. Year Method Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Proposed Actual Proposed Actual Proposed Actual Proposed Actual Proposed Actual

Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol Area Vol A Poplar 1960 Selective - - - - 0.1 6m³ ------felling A Mixed 1960 Selective - - - - 0.1 3m³ thinning B&C Mixed 1975 Selective - - - - 0.9 6m³ ------thinning F BE&SYC Pre- Selective 1.0 35m³ ------1900 felling Total 2.1 50m³ ------Mixed – mixed broadleaves BE – beech SYC - sycamore.

6.1. Financial forecast for years 1 to 5

The cost of the management works in Birch Wood will be met by the partners of the Heritage Lottery Fund, namely the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Forestry Commission, the Countryside Agency and Rotherham MBC for the first year of the work programme. These figures are identified in brackets. A detailed five year work programme from 2000 to 2006 for the Heritage Woodlands was agreed by all the partners. Further information on the available income from this grant can by found in the Business Plan for the project to restore heritage woodlands in South Yorkshire (South Yorkshire Forest 1996).

It is anticipated that the cost of management for Warren Vale and the final four years of the work programme for Birch Wood will be met by Rotherham MBC with support in the form of grants from the Forestry Commission under the England Woodland Grant Scheme.

Table 6.1(a) Expenditure in Birch Wood

Financial Year OPERATION Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 TOTALS Surveys, plans and consultation Prepare management plan (£100) £100 Site safety plan £200 £200 Ecological survey (£550) £550 Silviculture Silvicultural works (£7,469) £500 £500 £500 £500 £9,469 Access Strimming and mowing £150 £150 £150 £150 £150 £750 Way marking signs £40 £40 £40 £40 £40 £200 Other Site improvements Rubbish removal £825 £825 £825 £825 £825 £4,125 Total (HLF) £8,119 £8,119 Total (RMBC) £1,015 £1,515 £1,715 £1,515 £1,515 £7,275 TOTALS £9,134 £1,515 £1,715 £1,515 £1,515 £15,394

Table 6.1(b) Expenditure in Warren Vale Plantation

Financial Year Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 TOTAL Surveys, plans and consultation Soil analysis £100 £100 Silviculture Silvicultural works £250 £4,500 £250 £250 £250 £5,500 Coppicing under power lines* £0 Weeding of newly planted trees £450 £450 £450 £450 £1,800 Access Strimming and mowing £150 £150 £150 £150 £150 £750 Way marking signs £20 £20 £20 £20 £20 £100 Other site improvements Rubbish removal £300 £300 £300 £300 £300 £1,500 TOTALS £720 £5,420 £1,270 £1,170 £1,170 £9,750

Financial Year

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 TOTAL Surveys, plans and £650 £300 950 consultation Silviculture £7,719 £5,000 £700 £700 £700 £14,819 Access £360 £360 £360 £360 £360 £1,800 Other site improvements £1,125 £1,125 £1,125 £1,125 £1,125 £5,625 TOTALS £9,854 £6,485 £2,485 £2,185 £2,185 £23,194

6.2 Income

The cost of each management activity identified in Table 6.1 in Birch Wood will be met for the first year of the plan by the Heritage Lottery Fund and its partners, namely the Forestry Commission, the Countryside Agency and Rotherham MBC. Funding from the Forestry Commission, the Countryside Agency and Rotherham MBC has been agreed for the first year of the plan.

Table 6.2 Income (As an estimated percentage of the Expenditure for Birch Wood)

Partner Percentage Contribution Heritage Lottery Fund 75% Countryside Agency 13% Forestry Commission 5% Rotherham MBC 7%

Birch Wood and Warren Vale receives £129.50 per annum in Forestry Commission Annual Management Grant. This grant is valid until March 2006, when a new application will be made as required so that the scheme can continue into the future.

Table 6.3(a) Net costs (estimated) Years 1-5 for Birch Wood

Financial Year Totals Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 - Income £8,189.00 £70.00£70.00 £70.00 £70.00 £8,469 Expenditure £9,134.00 £1,515£1,715 £1,515 £1,515 £15,394 Net Costs to RMBC £945.00 £1,445 £1,645 £1,445 £1,445 £6,925

Table 6.3 (b) Net costs (estimated) Years 1-5 for Warren Vale Plantation

Financial Year Totals Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 - Income £59.50 £59.50 £59.50£59.50 £59.50 £297.50 Expenditure £4,970.00 £1,170.00£1,270.00 £1,170.00 £1,170.00 £9,750.00 Net Costs to RMBC £4,910.50 £1,110.50 £1,210.50 £1,110.50 £1,110.50 £9,452.50

7 Monitoring and Review

7.1 Monitoring

(a) General Management

The progress of the restoration programme for Birch Wood will be constantly monitored and adjusted as necessary. For the HLF Award a progress report is required at no more than three monthly intervals to draw down the available grant. An annual review of the management works implemented and progress towards targets will be produced.

Management work for which the Forestry Commission pay grant, such as annual management grant, may be monitored at any time to ensure the work is being carried out in accordance with the woodland grant scheme contract. A strict programme of monitoring, as described in section 1.2.3(j) is also carried out by the Forest Stewardship Council to ensure management of the woodland is in accordance with the Forest Stewardship Council’s strict requirements for sustainable woodland management.

All management activities will be monitored during and after implementation. Particular attention will be given to the following:

Public safety along the footpaths and the boundary with Hague Avenue. Regeneration in the felling glades. Establishment of newly planted trees. Thinning requirements of compartments D and E, Warren Vale. Off road vehicle activity. BAP species and habitats Rubbish/flytipping

(b) Natural History

The flora and fauna of the woodland will continue to be monitored, with particular emphasis on the effects of access and recreation and management operations. Any species present identified on the local, regional or UK Biodiversity Action Plan will be monitoring priorities.

Local naturalists will be encouraged to survey the site, and will be supported with compartment recording maps as appropriate. A "before and after" photographic record will be kept during all major management works.

All available records will be inputted in the Biological Records Centre RECORDER where appropriate.

A photographic survey of the site will be carried out throughout the five years, see section 5 management implementation.

7.2 Review

The management plan will be fully reviewed in 2010 at the end of this five-year plan period. The review will take into account monitoring work and progress reports prepared over the course of this plan. Unless there are serious unforeseen problems, the proposals in the next five-year plan will recognise the long-term aims and objectives approved in 2005. The reviewed plan will be effective for a further five-year period until 2015.

Provided there are no major changes to the aims and objectives the consultation process for the revised plan will remain as it is to ensure continuity in implementing plans of operations. The period of formal consultation with professional bodies will be remain at 7 working days. The wider consultation phase with the community will continue to use the local Area Assembly meeting as a platform, together with letters to the Parish Council, Ward Members, local interest groups and residents. This is in accordance with the document Consultation

63 procedure for the development, review and implementation of management plans for council-owned woodlands, prepared by Economic and Development Services (2001).

Copies of the reviewed management plan and new plan of operations will be made available for inspection at local libraries and in the Council’s offices. Also, a plan showing the locations of tree felling or other sensitive works will be attached to the consultation letters.

Any adverse reactions that cannot be resolved by normal discussion will be reported to the Cabinet briefing meeting. Otherwise the work will continue.

Within the last year of this plan a visitor survey will be conducted to establish how the quality and user friendliness of the wood has improved as a result of management works. Following very positive responses to the consultation on other management plans by local residents it would be a valuable exercise to invite comments from residents and user groups on how successful they perceive the management operations to have been. All comments and views will be considered for inclusion in the 2010 to 2015 plan.

8.0 COMMUNICATIONS

8.1 List of contacts and consultees

The following matrix of contacts has been compiled so that those with particular knowledge or who have an interest in a particular area of management can be quickly identified. This includes departments within the Council, external organisations and interest groups in the Rawmarsh area. All management issues should be directed through the Trees and Woodlands Section, Streetpride.

Table 8.1 Contact Person Rotherham MBC Position Number/email Department Reason for Contact Staff Streetpride 336003 Economic and Primary contact for all issues in respect of management of streetpride@rotherha Development Services the site. m.gov.uk Leonard, Paul Assistant Projects 2435 Culture Leisure and Life Responsible for the Estate Team in Green Spaces that Officer Long Learning can undertake access improvement and maintenance work. Barber, Carolyn Ecologist 2462 Culture Leisure and Life Ecological advice. Long Learning Mellor, Michelle Assistant Tourism 6892 Economic and Contact for issues relevant to tourism Officer Development Services Donaldson, Jane Assistant Rights of 2932 Economic and Request to close Public Right of Way for management Way Officer Development Services works. Streetpride 336003 Economic and Removal of cars from the site. streetpride@rotherha Development Services m.gov.uk Ely, Bill Biological Records 2437 Culture Leisure and Life To access biological records of the site. Officer Long Learning Spriggs, Paul Rosehill Park 524111 Culture Leisure and Life Local information on use of the site. Development Long Learning Ranger Curran, Janice Community Planning 6771 Policy and Partnerships For consultation and developing links with the local Officer (Wentworth community. South)

Williams, Colette Area Assembly 4603 Policy and Partnerships For consultation and developing links with the local Officer (Wentworth community. South) Monkman, Rosie Planning Officer 3839 Economic and Issues regarding planning constraints. Development Services Outside Organisation Contact Details Reason for contact Rotherham MBC. Grise, Chris Forestry 01904 448778 General enquiries relating to grants, Forestry Legislation Commission etc Clough, Debbie Forestry 01904 448778 Enquiries specific to the current WGS Commission Whiteley, Derek Sheffield Bat Group [email protected] For bat surveys and general advice relating to bats, particularly what to do when bats are disturbed. Contact 01298 872318 in an emergency situation when bats are found. McNeil, Jim South Yorkshire 01142 736428 Advice regarding management operations in relation to Archaeology Service archaeological features. SY Police 01142 202020 In the event of repeated problematic behaviour SY Fire Service 01142 727202 Notify the service of any controlled burning in accordance with the Councils’ fire plan. Carr, Len South Yorkshire 0114 2571199 Contact for objective 1 funding and WGS queries. Riddley, Robin Forest Sourcing markets for timber. Police/Fire 999 In the event of an emergency situation. Professor M. Landscape historian Advice on historical matters and management of the site. Jones Clark, Janet National Grid 0113 290 8000 Regarding management and maintenance of the their power lines. YEDL Regarding management and maintenance of their power lines. Hurley, Kate Groundwork Dearne 01226 740077 Possible links to regeneration projects in the area. Valley Rawmarsh Parkgate Contacts with local community. Action Group

9.1 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Ancient semi-natural woodland - woodland believed to have been in existence since at least 1600AD, and which supports stands of unplanted native trees and shrubs.

BAP – Biodiversity Action Plan, UK plan setting proposals and targets for conserving and enhancing biodiversity (see SAP and HAP).

Biodiversity – The variety of life, from genes to species and habitats.

Canopy - collectively, the mass of branches and foliage formed by the crowns of trees.

Clear-felling - the complete felling of a whole stand of trees at the same time.

Coppicing - the periodic felling of broadleaved trees and shrubs to ground level, every 8-25 years. These are then allowed to re-grow forming many stems called poles. This process can be repeated many times.

Community Woodland – Local woods for people to enjoy where the needs and wishes of the local people are important in planning and management.

Compartment – A unit of the woodland identified as a basis for long term management and monitoring.

Definitive footpaths and bridleways - Statutory public rights of way.

Ecology – The relationships between species.

Establishment- The formative period which ends once young trees are of sufficient size that giving adequate protection they are likely to survive.

Favoured tree - selected for retention during thinning and given favourable treatment by the removal of competing vegetation.

Forestry Standard – The Governments approach to sustainable forestry.

Forestry Strategy – Describes how the Government will deliver its forestry policies in England.

Glade - an area within a woodland managed as open space.

Group-felling - where a patch of trees covering less than 0.5ha is cut down to open a gap in the woodland, providing light and space for young trees. The minimum size of a gap is generally 1.5 - 2 times the height of adjacent woodland.

High forest - areas of trees, managed to promote a woodland of predominantly mature trees.

Minimum Intervention – Management with only the basic inputs required to protect the woodland from external forces and ensure succession of key habitats.

Natural regeneration - trees which have developed from natural seeding i.e. they have not been planted.

NVC – National Vegetation Classification A comprehensive classification of vegetation in the UK which is used to describe and assist in the evaluation of habitats.

Native species - those tree and shrub species which have colonised Britain by natural means i.e. without the intervention of man. Species introduced (non-native) by man include Sycamore and Sweet Chestnut. Beech and Hornbeam are native only to southern England. Elsewhere, they have been introduced through deliberate planting.

Natural Regeneration – Plants growing on a site as a result of natural seed fall or suckering.

Rotation - the length of time between the establishment of an area of woodland and its removal. Mature broadleaved high-forest is normally managed on a 100-200 year rotation, coppice on an 8-25 year rotation.

Red Data Book – A list of species which are rare or in danger of becoming extinct nationally or locally.

Respacing – Thinning out of trees before canopy closure to create wider spacing.

Ride – Permanent unsurfaced access route through woodland

SAP – Species Action Plan.

Semi-natural Woodland – Woodland composed mainly of locally native trees and shrubs which derive form natural seed fall or coppice rather than planting

Silviculture - the growing and tending of trees.

Stand - a group of trees, often applied to groups of trees of the same age or species composition.

Structural Diversity – The degree of variation in spatial distribution of trees both horizontally and vertically by the combined effect of different growth rates and ages of trees, shrubs and field vegetation.

Thinning - the removal, at certain stages of growth, of a proportion of trees from a stand. For example, to allow the remainder more growing space, to favour a particular species mix, or to maintain or encourage a diverse ground vegetation.

Windthrow - the blowing down of trees by the wind.

10.0 REFERENCES

10.1 Literature Cited

Amenities and Recreation (1989). Working Towards a Better Environment: A Strategy for Countryside Management. R.M.B.C.

Amenities and Recreation (1998). Personal communications. R.M.B.C.

Department of the Environment and the Welsh Office (1992). Joint Circular: Indicative Forest Strategies. London: HMSO.

English Nature (1998). Personal communications.

English Nature (1997). Coal Measures Natural Area Profile.

Forestry Authority (1997). Personal communications.

Forestry Commission (1992). Forestry Policy for Great Britain. London: HMSO.

Forestry Commission (2004). The UK Forestry Standard: The Government's Approach to Sustainable Forestry. Edinburgh: Forestry Commission.

Forestry Commission (1999) The England Forest Strategy – A new focus for Englands Woodlands- Strategic priorities and programmes.

Fuller R. J. (1995). Birdlife of woodland and forest. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press.

Garland S. P. (1983). Beetles as Primary Woodland Indicators. Sorby Record 21, Sheffield.

Hamilton G. J. (1975). Forest Mensuration Handbook. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Booklet 39).

Hamilton G. J. and Christie J. M. (1971). Forest Management Tables. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Booklet 34).

HMSO (1995). Biodiversity - the UK Steering Group Report. London.

Jones M. (1993). Sheffield's Woodland Heritage. Sheffield: Sheffield Design and Print.

Jones M. (1995). Rotherham's Woodland Heritage.

Jones M. (1996) Deer in South Yorkshire: an Historical Perspective. The Journal of Practical Ecology and Conservation No. 1 (1996). SCEEM

Jones M. (1997). The Medieval Deer Park at Kimberworth. Aspects of Rotherham 2: Discovering Local History. Barnsley: Wharncliffe Publishing.

Kirby P. (1992). Habitat Management for Invertebrates: A practical handbook. Bedfordshire: RSPB.

Legal and Democratic Services (1997). Personal communications. R.M.B.C.

Leonard P. (1993-98). Common Bird Census: Scholes Coppice. Unpublished.

Morris J. (1986). Domesday Book Yorkshire Part 1 and 2. London: Phillimore and Co. Ltd.

Patterson G. (1993). The Value of Birch in Upland Forests for Wildlife Conservation. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Bulletin 109).

Peterken G. F. (1993). Woodland Management and Conservation. London: J. M. Dent.

Planning Services (1989). Countryside Study. R.M.B.C.

Planning Services (1998). Personal communications.

Planning Services (1998). Unitary Development Plan. R.M.B.C.

Rodwell J. S. (1993). British Plant Communities, Volume 3 : Grassland and montane communities. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press.

Rodwell J. S. (1991). British Plant Communities, Volume 1: Woodlands and Scrub. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Selman, Dood, & Bayes (1999) A biodiversity Audit of Yorkshire & The Humber.

Smart N. and Andrews J. (1985). Birds and Broadleaves Handbook . R.S.P.B.

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South Yorkshire Archaeology Service (1997). Personal communications.

South Yorkshire Forest (2002). Forest Plan. Thorncliffe Park, Chapeltown, Sheffield.

South Yorkshire Forest (1994b). Fueling the Revolution- The woods that founded the Steel Country (Restorting Spouth Yorkshire Forests Heritage Woodlands). Thorncliffe Park, Chapeltown, Sheffield.

Warren M. S. and Fuller R. J. (1990). Woodland Rides and Glades: their management for wildlife. Peterborough: Nature Conservancy Council.

Waterson J. (1984). The draught horse in UK Forestry. Quarterly Journal of Forestry Vol.88 No. 4.

Weston Park Museum, Sheffield (1996). Meteorological Data.

10.2 Literature consulted but not cited

Amenities and Recreation (1995). Draft Environmental Awareness Strategy. R.M.B.C.

English Nature (1995). Sustainable forestry and nature conservation in England

Evans J. (1982). Silviculture of Broadleaved Woodland. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Bulletin 62).

Forestry Authority (1993). Biodiversity in Britain's Forests. London: HMSO.

Forestry Authority (1994). Lowland Mixed Broadleaved Woods. London: HMSO

(Forestry Practice Guide 3).

Forestry Authority (1994). Wet Woodlands. London: HMSO (Forestry Practice Guide 8).

Fuller R. J. and Warren M. S. (1990). Coppiced Woodlands: their management for wildlife. Peterborough: Nature Conservancy Council.

J. P. Grime, J. G. Hodgson and R. Hunt (1990). The abridged Comparative Plant Ecology. London: Chapman and Hall.

B. G. Hibbard (1993). Forestry Practice. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Handbook 6).

HMSO (1994). Sustainable Forestry: The UK Programme.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee (1992). Summary of National Vegetation Classification: Woodlands. Peterborough: JNCC.

Kerr G. and Evans J. (1993). Growing Broadleaves for Timber. London: HMSO (Forestry Commission Handbook 9).

Kirby K. J. (1988). A Woodland Survey Handbook. Peterborough: Nature Conservancy Council.

Rackham O. (1986). The History of the Countryside. London: J. M. Dent.

Rose F. (1981). The Wildflower Key. London: Warne.

Victoria County History (1974). South Yorkshire. London: Dawson