Relaunch for process to use the land in our care

We are not currently processing access requests for activities on the land in our care, such as a running or mountain bike event or carrying out activities including forest schools, wildlife surveys and horse riding. 

This is ahead of a relaunch of the process to create a quicker and easier system moving forward, while still maintaining visitor safety. 

We hope to finalise our new procedures by the early summer and will then manage requests in the order they are received as quickly as possible. 

Our aim for the future is that fewer activities will need to go through the access request process, making it easier for many users to enjoy the forests and access to nature unhindered by the need for formal permission from us. 

We would like to thank applicants for their understanding at this time. 

What will stay the same?

Once the new access request process begins, applicants will notice no change at the outset and will continue to submit an access request via our website.  

The 12 weeks lead in period will continue, with applications still required at least 12 weeks before an event or activity is due to start. 

What will be different?

A streamlined internal process will maintain the same high levels of due diligence in relation to health and safety but will use a more efficient administrative process and make better use of technology.  

Smaller, low-risk activities will be subject to a quicker and simpler process, involving less interaction with the applicants.  

Larger and more widespread activities and events will experience a similar application process as at present, but we are seeking faster transit of applications through the process. 

Applicants will need to be more aware that our woodlands are multi-purpose places for both recreation and timber harvesting. This will require people to be respectful of other activities nearby and share the space safely by complying with onsite signage and following any diversions in place.

If we are unable to host an event or activity safely, applicants will get a quicker response from us. 

Next update 

Our next update is due at the end of April.