Ashdown Forest

Funder  Ashdown Forest Board of Conservators, and Natural England

Context  The Conservators have responsibility for managing the rare habitat of Ashdown Forest in the South East of England. Management practices include spraying, mowing and occasional fencing: which in turn receive varied support and opposition from the local community (depending on individual views). The Conservators however are keen to involve local people appropriately in Forest management decisions, and keep them up to date on work planned.

3KQ's Role  3KQ was asked to conduct an independent survey of local views on forest management. This led to the drafting of a Forest Plan so locals could see clearly what work is planned. We went on to facilitate a meeting for local organisations to input their views, and also a series of Parish Meetings open to the public. 3KQ have now handed back the delivery of this work to Forest staff, following a training course to support the ongoing work.

More info  See the Ashdown Forest official website www.ashdownforest.org in particular their 'Stakeholder' page