One thousand trees have been planted at the new Burnehyll Community Woodland between Chesterton and Bicester.

The project led by Cherwell District Council and Friends of Burnehyll stretches from the Park and Ride to the Chesterton junction alongside Vendee Drive across approximately 110 acres.

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The trees were obtained as part of a carbon offset programme with funding organised by Andrew Haining of e-forests.

Planting started on Wednesday December 1 and has been going on for six days.

Tim Screen, Landscape Architect for Cherwell District Council who leads the project said: “This woodland is planted by the community for the community and for future generations. The volunteers comprise Friends of Burnehyll Community Woodland, Bicester Green Gym, the 41 Club, Chesterton Rainbows and other local people.

“This is just the beginning for Burnehyll Community Woodland. We intend to plant 25,000 trees in total over two or more years. This first phase will be managed in partnership with the community and the council to ensure it is successfully established to reach its full potential.

“The combination of woodland, open space and balancing pond are essential for people to connect with nature, enhancing their well-being and improving their general health.

“Please treat this woodland and the people who use it with respect.”

The trees have been chosen carefully to suit a range of soil conditions and future climate changes, and there is a wide range of native species.

Landscape architect Kris Hindhaugh donated his time to create an innovative plan for the area using over 30 native tree and shrub species to suit soil conditions on different parts of the site.

Various species, including foxes, field mice, voles, owls, roe and muntjac deer, have been found at Burnehyll since the original suggestion to turn the farmland area into a community woodland began over 15 years ago.

The land was originally proposed for a woodland by Chesterton Parish Council, primarily as a buffer between the village and developing Bicester.

The suggestion was supported by former MP Sir Tony Baldry, who discussed the proposal with Countryside Properties when plans for the development of the Whitelands Farm area were at an early stage.

Following negotiations between Cherwell District Council and Countryside Properties, in July 2014 the Council agreed to acquire the land for £1.00.

 

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