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Press release

Tree work for Cuckoo Trail

Monday 24 October 2005

East Sussex County Council’s Rangers will be carrying out vital work to thin a dense canopy of trees along the Cuckoo Trail.

The coppicing work will take place on sections of the old railway cutting in Hailsham. Invasive dominant species such as sycamore will be removed and native species such as oak, which benefit wildlife, will be selectively thinned, leaving mainly older trees.

Coppicing regenerates growth of seeds and shoots from stumps and attracts insects including butterflies. When the trees are thinner more sunlight is let through which warms and improves surface conditions. The work will mean that there is a more open canopy and improve the feeling of security for users of the Cuckoo Trail.

Sections of the Cuckoo Trail may have to be closed for short periods for safety reasons but there will be clear diversion signs.

Notes to editors

The coppicing has been approved by the Forestry Commission and similar work has taken place between Heathfield and Hellingly and near the Old Loom Mill, Hailsham.

If you have any queries please contact Andy Mitchell, Cuckoo Trail Ranger on 01273 481637.


Reference: 702

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East Sussex County Council, County Hall, St Anne's Crescent, Lewes, BN7 1UE. Tel: 01273 481000