Woodton Community Wood
Brief History
In 2017 Woodton Parish Council completed the purchase of the land at Suckling Place from South Norfolk District Council for the sum of £1.00. At the time of purchase the land was overgrown, neglected and being used inappropriately. Through securing grant funding the Parish Council was able to transform this area, now known as Woodton Community Wood, into a well-used, managed and pleasant place for residents of all ages to walk. There they can appreciate and explore wildlife and the beauty of this natural habitat. As you walk through the Community Wood you will see many examples of the transformation and how the funds were spent, including the following:-
Pathways
Gates
Illustrated noticeboard
Signage
Benches and picnic tables
Barbecue area
Forest School Teaching Area
Installation of many Bird Boxes, a Bug House - and much more!
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Today
The Community Wood continues to be a much treasured, valued and well-used asset of the Parish. The Parish Council, alongside essential volunteers, work to develop and maintain this community space, and our sincere thanks go to all those involved who kindly volunteer their time. Without this the Community Wood would not be maintained to its high standard and continue to evolve. These achievements have been recognised through two awards - The Norfolk Biodiversity Award 2023, runner up in "The Spaces for Nature Award" category and also The CPRE Norfolk Award 2021, in which the Parish Council received a Highly Commended award.
Several well attended community events are held throughout the year celebrating Christmas, Easter and Halloween. In addition, the Forest School are regular users of the wood’s Teaching Area and it is lovely to see the younger generation being able to learn in such an outstanding and natural environment.
In addition, improvements have been made to the Ravens Den play area which adjoins the Community Wood. These include;
New play equipment; fort, replacement swings, aerial zipwire
Replacement safety matting
Replacement peripheral fencing
Refurbishment of picnic benches, seats and tables
The Parish Council will continue to develop these two outstanding community assets and always welcome any suggestions or ideas from parishioners.
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Volunteers
The Parish Council is looking for volunteers who would be interested in using and helping to maintain the Community Garden. Whether you have knowledge or not, are interested and have some time to spare, please contact the Parish Clerk or a member of the Parish Council. Come and be part of this amazing community project and help us make a difference. Some funds are budgeted within the Parish Council precept, but donations towards the upkeep and improvements of the wood are always welcomed!
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Safety
For safety reasons the use of motorcycles and quad bikes is prohibited in both Ravens Den and the Community Wood.
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Management and volunteers will be needed well into the future. The ways in which people can assist in the ongoing maintenance include giving some time, knowledge and of course donations. If you feel you would like to be involved in some way please contact a member of the Parish Council to express your interest.
