Newark and Sherwood District Council taking action to tackle “unacceptable” fly-tipping at world famous Sherwood Forest near Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire
Action has been taken to tackle high levels of fly-tipping and environmental damage at one of the most iconic forests in the world.
Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Forestry England have worked in partnership to install boulders and barriers along Deerdale Lane and Eakring Road, which is also home to Sherwood Forest.
The area has long been a hot spot area fly tippers and the installation of these new measure aims to stop vehicle carrying waste from entering the site, while still allowing access to pedestrians and cyclists.
Legal action has in the past been taken against those dumping waste, which resulted in the creation of a new Public Space Protection Order specifically for that area — designed to preserve and protect the community, while promote responsible behaviour.
Paul Peacock, leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We are committed to stopping those who try to cut corners and flout the law when it comes to environmental offences such as fly tipping and rogue waste carriers.
“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.
“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.”
Lizzie Hartshorne, recreation operations manager at Forestry England, said that the organisation supported the introduction of the protection order and the new restrictions.
“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,” she said.
“These activities have often impacted our neighbouring Sherwood Pines, causing damage to the woodland and posing a risk to our visitors.
“We believe the Public Space Protection Order will help reduce these issues and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.”
Waste clearance will be ongoing throughout the next year once ground conditions have improved, and some waste will require specialist removal.
This new protection order was introduced by the District Council following a review, including a two-stage public consultation which received over 500 responses
Comments and feedback given by residents, businesses, partner agencies and wider groups were analysed at each stage to shape before the final list of orders.
Public Space Protection Orders address specific issues such as dog fouling, littering and anti-social behaviour in public spaces — but can include measures to restrict certain activities that negatively impact the local community, from town centres and residential areas to parks and green spaces.
Anyone found in violation of one of these could be faced with a fine.
Incidents of fly-tipping need to be reported to Newark and Sherwood District Council.
