Trees were chopped down around a moat at a beauty spot
A conservation charity has defended itself from claims of “environmental vandalism” after trees were felled at a beauty spot.
Angry locals were shocked to discover trees had been knocked down around a moat at Fort Brockhurst with questions raised over why the drastic action was taken and who was behind it.
One resident, posting on Facebook, said three Coot nests had been destroyed although they were not sure any eggs were present. “What’s been done looks like environmental vandalism,” they said.
“There were a couple of dead trees at the front (facing the A32), but most of the trees were healthy looking, albeit overgrown. The work could have (and should have) been done with more sensitivity to the wildlife there.”
Another person said: “Wildlife is not safe anywhere anymore. So sad man has to destroy defenceless creatures’ habitat.”
A third local added: “Doesn’t even look like it’s been done properly, it’s a mess.”
Now English Heritage has admitted responsibility and given its reason for the felling. A spokesperson said: “English Heritage is a conservation charity which exists to care for Fort Brockhurst along with 400 other historic buildings and sites around the country. We manage these important places in harmony with the nature around them.
“We can confirm that we have felled a number of self-seeded trees around the moat at Fort Brockhurst. These were destroying the bank and draining the moat – impacting the wildlife for which Fort Brockhurst is home. Their removal will help the moat, local wildlife and existing plants on the bank thrive.”
