Trees and woodland strategy
A new draft landscape character assessment was published in March 2006. The final version will be published in 2007.
Find out more about the East Sussex draft landscape assessment.
Our strategy
In 1990 the East Sussex Woodland Forum produced a strategy to direct our activities. It recognised that the long-term future of woodland depended on its management as a tool for regeneration and sustainable development. The strategy was updated in 2001.
Download the Trees and woodland strategy – 2001.
Trees and woodland are one of our greatest assets. To maximise their environmental and economic benefits, long-term planning and management is needed. Most woods need to be commercially viable to be retained as healthy living parts of the landscape.
Types of woodland
About 17% of East Sussex is wooded. Most is broad-leaved "high forest”, about a quarter coniferous and the rest scrub woodland and coppice.
Over half the woodland in the county is still made up of native trees and shrubs, with traditionally dominant oak being overtaken by ash, birch and beech.
What now for our woodlands?
Rural development – the rural nature of East Sussex is in decline and the existing woodland industry needs to be strengthened by investment.
Economic regeneration – many businesses want to relocate here because of our environment, and trees and woodland let the landscape absorb this more easily.
Recreation, access and tourism – improved access for all, so that trees and woodland can become green networks. Tourism could be a key tool for sustainability in East Sussex.
Environment and conservation – creating woodland on former agricultural land has great benefits for wildlife conservation. Corridors can link together ancient woodlands with areas of significant historic, landscape or wildlife importance.
