Agenda item

Report of the Superintendent, Epping Forest.

The Committee received an update outlining the conservation, visitor access and risk management projects proposed in the Forest for the year 2016-17. The dominant theme of the 2016/17 work programme was the continuing habitat

conservation work including the wood pasture restoration programme for which the

rate of work has been increased to ensure we meet the 10-year grant commitment

under Natural England’s Higher Level Scheme.

The key areas of work in the proposed 2016-17 programme, in addition to

the wood-pasture restoration, are based on improving visitor access, continuing to

enhance the condition of the established surfaced ride network for all users, continuing the landscape and visitor improvement works at Wanstead and Highams

Parks and managing risks - particularly those related to highways woody verge

vegetation, fly-tipping, rough sleeping and tree safety.

Members agreed that the work contributed by volunteers in the Forest must be emphasised in the report. The Chairman said a great deal of work was done by volunteers to assist Special Education Needs children and young people volunteering in Epping Forest and this contribution must be noted. Members agreed that by taking part in these activities members of the public were able to improve their social skills whilst enjoying some exercise and this should continue.

Resolved – that Members approved the annual work programme.