Sherwood Forest Introduces New Measures to Combat Fly-Tipping

Measures are being introduced to protect Sherwood Forest, a scenic location in Nottinghamshire, from illegal waste dumping. Newark and Sherwood District Council, in collaboration with Forestry England and Nottinghamshire County Council, has installed boulders and barriers at the entrances to Sherwood Forest, specifically at Deerdale Lane and Eakring Road, situated between Mansfield and Newark. The district council has also established a new public space protection order (PSPO) in response to what a statement described as an “industrial-scale” problem, aiming to “help to preserve and protect the community and promote responsible behaviour.” Access to the site will remain open for cyclists and walkers. The council clarified that PSPOs are tools designed to “address specific issues such as dog fouling, littering and anti-social behaviour,” with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines. Paul Peacock, the leader of the authority, stated: “Sherwood Forest is known throughout the world and we want to do what we can to keep it well preserved and rubbish free for communities to enjoy.” He added, “These extra measures in place will make it difficult for fly tipping to happen in this area again and we hope to see the recovery of flora and fauna that was once there.” Waste removal operations are scheduled for Sherwood Forest throughout the upcoming year. Certain locations will be unreachable during winter due to unfavorable ground conditions, and specific waste materials will necessitate specialized disposal methods. Lizzie Hartshorne, recreation operations manager at Forestry England, expressed support for the PSPO implemented near Eakring Road. She commented, “This location has been a persistent problem area for fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour, including fires and the illegal use of off-road vehicles.” Hartshorne further noted, “These activities have often impacted our neighbouring Sherwood Pines, causing damage to the woodland and posing a risk to our visitors.” She concluded, “We believe the PSPO will help reduce these issues and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.”