WOODTON
PARISH COUNCIL

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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Adding or contributing items to Community Wood

 

As everyone knows the Parish Council owns the Woodton Community Wood, which has become a very valuable asset to the village.  We want everyone to enjoy the space and be respectful of its purpose as a Wood, and in particular to protect its biodiversity and wildlife. Permission from the Parish Council needs to be sought should anyone wish to add trees or plants to the existing vegetation. However we do not allow the addition of any further garden furniture, ornaments or plaques.  These can not only become damaged unintentionally by contractor’s equipment but also can cause damage to the contractor’s mowers and strimmers. Thank you for your co-operation.

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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.