ࡱ>    M qbjbj== )5 WW&iol.$RRR8R|bSLT6UVVV[[[  $+ Kn0[X[|[[[0qVVREqqq[hRVV q[ q:qrb$`"VT <=JR@jvV|[0l"pqCINDERHILL COMMUNITY WOODLAND, NR BRENCHLEY, KENT. NATURE CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT PLAN GENERAL INFORMATION Site Name Cinderhill Community Woodland. Site Location Cinderhill Community Woodland is located approximately 2km to the northeast of Pembury and about 1km to the west of the village of Matfield. It is bounded on its western side by the Tudeley Brook and to the south by Brenchley Wood nature reserve. The exact northern boundary is unclear on the ground, but abuts a further area of woodland. To the east are a number of residential properties, grassland and orchards. Maps showing the general site location and site boundaries are given in Figures 1 and 2. Grid Reference (Centre of Site) TQ 650 425. Area of Site 13 ha / 30 acres. Access There is vehicular access along a surfaced track from Chestnut Lane, which leads to a small car park within the site. A section of public footpath WT205 runs close to the southern boundary of the site. The footpath starts on Chestnut Lane, just to the south of Cinderhill Wood cottages, adjacent to the site entrance. At its western end, the path crosses the Tudeley Brook, before linking with a series of other footpaths and one bridleway, north of Pembury. There is also a network of permissive paths and informal tracks across the site. National Cycle Route 18 is located 300m to the south of the site. Ownership Details Cinderhill Community Woodland is owned by Tunbridge Borough Council, who lease it to Brenchley Parish Council. It is managed by Kent High Weald Project. Ownership Contacts:Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Town Hall Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1RSKent High Weald Project Conservation Centre Bedgebury Pinetum Bedgebury Road Goudhurst Kent TN17 2SJLandscape and Nature Conservation Status Cinderhill Community Woodland is included within the TW16 Brenchley Wood Local Wildlife Site (formerly known as Sites of Nature Conservation Interest) and the Local Wildlife Site schedule for this site is attached at Appendix 1. It is also depicted as ancient woodland on the Kent Landscape Information System ( HYPERLINK "http://www.kent.gov.uk/klis" www.kent.gov.uk/klis) and on the provisional ancient woodland inventory (Pritchard et. al 1994). The site lies within the High Weald Natural Area. Natural Areas are sub-divisions of England, each with a characteristic association of wildlife and natural features. Each Natural Area has a unique identity resulting from the interaction of wildlife, landforms, geology, land use and human impact. Further information on the High Weald Natural Area may be found at  HYPERLINK "http://www.english-nature.org.uk/text_version /science/natural/NA_Details.asp?NA_ID=72&S=High+Weald&R=0" http://www.english-nature.org.uk/text_version /science/natural/NA_Details.asp?NA_ID=72&S=High+Weald&R=0. Cinderhill Community Woodland is also within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). AONBs are landscape areas designated by Government under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, on account of their natural beauty, and with the aim of conserving and enhancing it. The High Weald was designated an AONB in 1983, due to its well-preserved landscape features, especially the distinctive ridges and valleys. The proposals map within the current Tunbridge Wells Local Plan (2006) also indicates that Cinderhill Community Woodland lies within the Kent Special Landscape Area and is outside the Limits to Built Development. Given the above designations, the following policies from the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Plan (2006) apply to this site: Policy EN1All proposals for development within the Plan area will be required to satisfy all of the following criteria: The nature and intensity of the proposed use would be compatible with neighbouring uses and would not cause significant harm to the amenities or character of the area in terms of noise, vibration, smell, safety or health impacts, or excessive traffic generation; The proposal would not cause significant harm to the residential amenities of adjoining occupiers, and would provide adequate residential amenities for future occupiers of the development, when assessed in terms of daylight, sunlight and privacy; The design of the proposal, encompassing scale, layout and orientation of buildings, site coverage by buildings, external appearance, roofscape, materials and landscaping, would respect the context of the site and take account of the efficient use of energy; The proposal would not result in the loss of significant buildings, related spaces, trees, shrubs, hedges, or other features important to the character of the built up area or landscape; There would be no significant adverse effect on any features of nature conservation importance which could not be prevented by conditions or agreements; The design, layout and landscaping of all development should take account of the security of people and property and incorporate measures to reduce or eliminate crime; and The design of public spaces and pedestrian routes to all new development proposals should provide safe and easy access for people with disabilities and people with particular access requirements. Policy EN15Development proposals that would have an adverse impact on the nature conservation interest of a statutory Local Nature Reserve or non-statutory nature conservation site, will only be permitted if all of the following criteria are satisfied: The need for the development would outweigh the nature conservation interest of the site; There would be no reasonable, less damaging alternative solutions; and The design and layout of the scheme would minimise the potential impact on the important features of the site. Policy EN26Within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, development proposals will only be permitted if they would protect or enhance the natural beauty and special character of the landscape. Major development proposals will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances and where they are demonstrated to be in the public interest. Policy EN27Within the High and Low Weald Special Landscape Areas, but outside the boundary of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, development proposals will only be permitted where they would cause no significant harm to the important landscape character of the area.Policy LBD1Outside the Limits to Built Development, as defined on the Proposals Map, development will only be permitted where it would be in accordance with all relevant policies contained in this Local Plan and the Kent Structure Plan 1996 and the Kent and Medway Structure Plan 2006 rural settlement and countryside policies.   Figure 1: Cinderhill Community Woodland. Map showing general site location (highlighted by pink circle).  Figure 2: Cinderhill Community Woodland. Map showing site boundaries (outlined in red). Previous Surveys The site has been fairly well surveyed in recent years, with comprehensive botanical and bird surveys being undertaken in 2007 (by Kent Wildlife Trust and Martin Allison respectively). Kent High Weald Project carried out a reptile survey of the site in 2005. The refugia laid at that time have been left in situ, and are now being monitored annually by trained volunteer surveyors (Kent High Weald Project, 2006). A fungi survey was undertaken by Bryan Bullen in 2004. The Kent High Weald Project has collated records of invertebrates collected during 2002 2004, along with various plant, bird, mammal, herptile, invertebrate and fungi records dating back to 1993 (Kent High Weald Project, 2004). A detailed botanical survey was undertaken in 1993 as part of the production of the first management plan for this site (Moyse, 1998). All the above reports and records are held by Kent High Weald Project. Kent Wildlife Trust has checked its TW16 Local Wildlife Site file and has extracted a number of records that relate to Cinderhill Community Woodland. Kent High Weald Project has also provided KWT with a number of historic paper records. All of these records have been compiled and are attached at Appendix 2. SITE DESCRIPTION Geology Solid Geology Group: The site is situated over sandstone rocks of the Hastings Beds, which underly the High Weald. The majority of the site lies over Tunbridge Wells Sands, while the Wadhurst Clay is exposed on the lower slopes above the Tudeley Brook. Drift Geology Group: The south-western corner of the site is overlain by a drift of sand. There is no other drift geology on the site. Soils The soils across the site are mainly slightly acid loamy and clayey soils with impeded drainage. However in the western side of the site they are more slowly permeable and seasonally wet. Hydrology In winter, excess water moving through the soil appears at the ground surface on the steeper slopes at the western end of the site. This creates a series of wet flushes along the contour, which feed two small streams running down into the Tudeley Brook and into a small area of Sphagnum mire on the site. In places, seasonal wet flushes appear close to paths, making passage difficult (Moyse, 1998). Habitat Description A detailed description of the habitats found within Cinderhill Community Woodland is given in the 2007 botanical report (Kent Wildlife Trust, 2007). The information has been summarised below. Cinderhill Community Woodland comprises five main habitat types: streamside woodland, birch woodland, sweet chestnut coppice, heathland, and an area of enriched grassland and scrub. A map showing the location of these areas has been given in Figure 3 below. Figure 3: Summary of habitats at Cinderhill Community Woodland Streamside Woodland The streamside woodland was recorded on the lowest slopes and floodplain adjacent to Tudeley Brook, where it occurs on the wetter, more alkaline soils over the Wadhurst Clay. It was the least disturbed part of the site. The woodland was dominated by overstood, unmanaged alder Alnus glutinosa, ash Fraxinus excelsior and hazel Corylus avellana coppice with downy birch Betula pubescens and occasionally alder buckthorn Frangula alnus. The ground flora is rich, and includes species such as wood anemone Anemone nemorosa, yellow archangel Lamiastrum galeobdolon ssp. montanum, cuckooflower Cardamine pratensis, wood speedwell Veronica montana, early-purple orchid Orchis mascula, pendulous sedge Carex pendula, and remote sedge Carex remota. A number of fern species were also present including narrow buckler-fern Dryopteris carthusiana, broad buckler-fern Dryopteris dilatata, and soft shield-fern Polystichum setiferum. Areas where the ground was slightly drier supported additional species such as common twayblade Listera ovata, common spotted-orchid Dactylorhiza fuchsii, primrose Primula vulgaris, bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta and early dog-violet Viola reichenbachiana. A particular feature of this streamside woodland was a sizeable colony of greater butterfly-orchid Platanthera chlorantha, a county scarce plant. Birch Woodland This type of woodland was found on the higher slopes and the plateau. It is likely that it has colonised areas that were cleared at some time in the relatively recent past. In addition to silver and downy birch Betula pendula and Betula pubescens, there was a mix of tree species including some planted sweet chestnut coppice Castanea sativa, with holly, rowan and Midland hawthorn. Other areas comprised coppiced areas of oak Quercus robur, hazel and ash with oak standards. The soils underlying this woodland habitat are acid, lying over Tunbridge Wells Sands and this is reflected in the ground flora, which was dominated by bramble with bluebell and honeysuckle. Other common species included wood sage Teucrium scorodonia, hairy wood-rush Luzula pilosa and a variety of ferns. A series of relict woodbanks supported a number of ancient woodland indicator species including wood sorrel Oxalis acetosella, wood meadow-grass Poa nemoralis, hairy wood-rush and southern wood-rush Luzula forsteri. Several woodland flushes were present within the woodland. At the time of this survey, they were very dry and mostly colonised by dense bramble with alder and ash saplings. The dampest parts were found to support species such as pendulous sedge Carex pendula, remote sedge Carex remota, and cuckooflower Cardamine pratensis. The few wet areas supported water-starwort Callitriche sp. and the liverwort Pellia epiphylla. Sweet Chestnut Coppice A large stand of overstood sweet chestnut coppice was present in the south eastern area of the site. This was a virtual monoculture, although a few mature sessile oak, downy birch and rowan trees were also recorded. Shrubby species were scarce, but included holly, hawthorn, elder and bramble. The ground flora was restricted under the dense canopy, but where present was dominated by bluebell with some wood anemone, lesser celandine Ranunculus ficaria, and ferns such as broad buckler-fern, scaly male-fern Dryopteris affinis and hard fern Blechum spicant. A particular feature of this block of sweet chestnut was the presence of a small stand of wild service tree Sorbus torminalis. A second area of predominantly sweet chestnut coppice immediately to the east of the heathland had been cut during winter 2006/2007. Here the ground flora was more diverse and included species such as bluebell, bracken Pteridium aquilinum, bramble, wood sage Teucrium scorodonia, yellow pimpernel, and slender St. Johns-wort Hypericum pulchrum. Heathland The main heathland area has been fenced and is now grazed by a small flock of sheep. It is dominated by a mosaic of ling Calluna vulgaris and bracken Pteridium aquilinum, with a variety of plants and bryophytes characteristic of dry heathland occurring where the bracken and ling are not too dense. Similar vegetation occurs along the rides around this enclosure and includes species such as the county rare Western gorse Ulex gallii, and the county scarce plants bell heather Erica cinerea and green-ribbed sedge Carex binervis. Other species include heath milkwort Polygala serpyllifolia, heath speedwell Veronica officinalis, tormentil Potentill erecta, wood sage Teucrium scorodonium and the sedges pill sedge Carex pilulifera and Carex binervis. Grasses, such as Agrostis vinealis, Aira praecox, Deschampsia flexuosa, and sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum also occur. Bryophytes characteristic of dry acid grassland/heath include Brachythecium albescens, Polytrichum juniperinum,and Dicranum scorparium. Approximately one-third of the heathland block was burnt during spring 2007. This is now becoming dominated by bracken. A small area of Sphagnum mire occurs within the heathland, where a wide, wet flush arising from a spring line runs down the slope. This supports a variety of wetland species, from those preferring highly acidic conditions, such as Sphagnum palustre and Polytrichum commune, to those associated with lower acidity, including marsh bedstraw Galium palustre and bog stitchwort Stellaria uliginosa. Enriched Grassland and Scrub There are two large blocks of grassland. The first is the playing field, an area of intensively managed grassland with a limited number of broadleaved flowering plants. The second is the main grassland area above the heathland. The vegetation here was dominated by grass species including velvet bent, Yorkshire fog, sweet vernal-grass Anthoxanthum odoratum, smooth meadow-grass and rough meadow-grass. Broadleaved herbs were rather scarce but bulbous buttercup Ranunculus bulbosus, red clover Trifolium pratense, common mouse-ear Cerastium fontanum, and birds-foot-trefoil Lotus corniculatus occur rarely. The grassland was edged with scrub and young trees including bramble, hawthorn and elder as well as several apple trees. One or two relict oaks were also present within the grassy area. Finally, sandwiched between the two grassland areas is a complex of disturbed land with relict concreted areas, heaped vegetated soil banks, dense and scattered scrub, and short, rabbited grassland. The vegetation here is believed to have developed over tipped sewage sludge. The more open disturbed areas supported a variety of tall ruderals including stands of common nettle, rosebay willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, hemlock Conium maculatum, tansy Tanacetum vulgare, spear thistle Cirsium vulgare, and hogweed Heracleum sphondylium. The scrub was often dominated by elder, with goat willow Salix caprea, and hawthorn. Bramble and young oaks were also a feature of the area. Between the blocks of scrub were smaller patches of short, grazed turf. Bents, Yorkshire fog, and rough meadow-grass were recorded with birds-foot-trefoil, ribwort plantain, daisy, red and white clover and buttercups. Notable Species Mammals Kent High Weald Project has few records of protected or notable mammal species using the site. It does have some site records of common mammals, namely fox Vulpes vulpes, rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus, squirrel Sciurus carolinensis and mole Talpa europaea. Birds. The 2007 bird report (Allison, 2007) reports that, A total of 45 species of bird was recorded during the surveyA further 15 species can be added from the historical records giving a total of 60 species recordedto date. Twenty-five species were considered to be breeding in, or adjacent, to the site in 2007. Of the birds recorded to date, sixteen species are considered to be notable i.e. species that are either listed on the RSPBs Red List (RSPB, 2002), or contained within the Kent Red Data Book (Waite, 2000). The notable birds are listed below. Unless otherwise stated, all records are from 2007. Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula Dunnock Prunella modularis Goldcrest Regulus regulus Lesser redpoll Carduelis cabaret (2000) Lesser spotted woodpecker Dendrocopus minor (1993) Linnet Carduelis cannabina (1998) Marsh tit Parus palustris Skylark Alauda arvensis (1993) Song thrush Turdus philomelos Spotted flycatcher Muscicapa striata Starling Sternus vulgaris (1998) Stonechat Saxicola torquata (2002) Turtle dove Streptopelia turtur Willow tit Parus montanus Woodcock Scolopax rusticola (1998) Yellowhammer Emberiza calandra (1998) Reptiles and Amphibians A number of reptile and amphibian species have been recorded within Cinderhill Community Woodland: viviparous lizard Lacerta vivipara, adder Vipera berus, grass snake Natrix natrix, slow-worm Anguis fragilis, great crested newt Triturus cristatus and common toad Bufo bufo. With the exception of the common toad, all the remaining species are legally protected. Viviparous lizard, adder, grass snake and slow-worm are protected against killing and injury under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. The great crested newt is protected under all elements of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is also protected under parts 1 and 2 of Regulation 39 of the Habitats Regulations 1994 and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. This legislation taken together prohibits the following: Deliberately, intentionally or recklessly, injuring, killing and capturing Deliberately, intentionally or recklessly disturbing Deliberately, intentionally or recklessly taking or destroying eggs Deliberately, intentionally or recklessly destroying a breeding site or resting place or damaging or obstructing a resting place used for shelter or protection Keeping, transporting, selling or exchanging; offering for sale or advertising. Vascular Plants The 2007 botanical survey highlighted the presence of nine vascular plant species and one moss that are considered to be of Conservation Interest. This means that they are either of county importance, or considered to be of restricted distribution in Kent. These species are listed below: Western gorse Ulex gallii Green-ribbed sedge Carex binervis Smooth-stalked sedge Carex laevigata Pale sedge Carex pallescens Bell heather Erica cinerea Greater butterfly-orchid Platanthera chlorantha Narrow buckler-fern Dryopteris carthusiana Alder buckthorn Frangula alnus Wild service-tree Sorbus torminalis a hair-moss Polytrichum commune Bluebell is also present on the site. This species is protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981, which means that it is an offence to, sell, offer for sale, possess or transport for purpose of sale, or advertise for sale any live or dead plant, or any part of, or anything derived from, such plant. CULTURAL Archaeology The following information has been taken from the original management plan (Moyse, 1998). The name Cinderhill dates back at least as far as the 13th century, when it is recorded variously as Sinderhielde, Synderhelle, Sinderhell and Cinderhild. The hill in this context means slope, and the cinder is presumably a reference to early iron-making. Although Domesday records only one iron-works in the Weald, by the 1200s, the area was supplying much of the iron for London and the South. Cinder was a name given to the waste material produced during the making of bloom a soft impure form of iron. It consists of fragments of burnt charcoal and iron slag, and particles of iron and iron oxide, produced during the forging of solid iron bars. The presence of a pond bay just outside the Cinderhill Community Woodland site, indicates that iron-making must have continued in the area for several centuries. From the 15th century onward, blast furnaces were used to produce better quality cast iron. The bellows which provided the blast, and the hammers for forging the metal, were powered by waterwheels. Pond bays were constructed as dams to hold back and store water, in order to provide a continuous source of power for the waterwheels. In some cases, ponds were formed on the line of a water course; in others, as here, the pond was created alongside the water course. Woodbanks, used to mark coppicing and ownership boundaries in the past, are evident through the area of sweet chestnut coppice. Land Use Cinderhill Community Woodland is shown as ancient woodland on the English Nature (now Natural England) Provisional Inventory of Ancient Woodland and it is probable that it was wooded through the 16th century, providing wood for the iron industry. It is likely that the site remained largely wooded until the first half of this century, during which time it was probably managed as coppice. This hypothesis is backed up by an examination of the first edition OS maps (1871-1952) available on the Kent Landscape Information System website ( HYPERLINK "http://www.kent.gov.uk/klis" www.kent.gov.uk/klis ), which show the woodland boundaries of the site to be much as they are now. Interestingly, a 1949 aerial photograph of the site shows that the only wooded areas at that time were the stream-sides in the west of the site and part of the chestnut coppice in the south-east corner. The rest of the site was very open, with a little low scrub. Subsequently, there have apparently been one or more attempts to plant the whole area up as sweet chestnut/oak woodland; however, such attempts have largely failed and much of the site is now becoming dominated by scrubby young birch. The site is currently managed as a nature reserve. The local gypsy community occasionally tether horses to graze the area of rough grassland in the north of the site. Public Interest / Recreational Usage The site is used regularly by the general public for recreational use; mainly walking, wildlife watching and horse-riding. Local residents who filled in questionnaires during the public consultation exercise held in March 2007 indicated that they visited the site for at least 30 minutes at average varying intervals of between once a year and once a month. Local horse-riders particularly value the site, and have created a number of jumps along several paths and rides. Due to the soils on the site, which are very wet at certain times of the year, conflict between riders and walkers arises as paths become churned up by horses. There is apparently also conflict between the horse-riders and the local gypsy community who are reported to have loose horses on the site, or horses tethered across footpaths; this is said to have deterred some riders from using the site (comment from the community consultation). There is some low level vandalism on the site, and this has included arson part of the lowland heathland was burned in 2007, as was a shelter built in a mesolithic style. Kent High Weald Project has organised a number of events to increase public use of the site. These have included fungal forays and public demonstrations of timber extraction using heavy horses, iron smelting and chestnut cleaving to make traditional woodland products. In March 2007 a community day was held, which included a consultation exercise with the local community to find out how visitors currently use the site and the improvements they would like to see. The mesolithic shelter, burned down in 2007, is also to be reconstructed during 2008 as part of a community event. The site is recognised at a county level as being of wildlife interest and this has attracted visits from local natural history groups, such as Kent Field Club and Kent Bat Group who have both organised recording trips to the site. The site has also been used for educational purposes. The Kent Reptile and Amphibian Group has trained a number of volunteers to record reptiles and since 2005, the site has been monitored regularly for this group of species. MANAGEMENT The Kent High Weald Project has been managing Cinderhill Community Woodland since 1994. A management plan was written in 1998 (Moyse) and this provided a work programme for the period 1998 2003. Kent High Weald Project has been successful in obtaining grant aid for specific areas of site management both from the Woodland Grant Scheme (expired in 2005) and the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (due to expire in 2009). Management has included: clearance of birch, aspen and bramble; ride restoration, ride-profiling and ongoing maintenance; small scale coppicing of sweet chestnut around the heathland; streamside coppicing; clearance of drains and culvert installation; installation of two bridle bridges; boardwalk creation; installation of benches; fencing; maintenance of the car park and creation of 250m hard surfaced path. A high management priority on this site has been the restoration and maintenance of the 3ha block of lowland heathland. This has attracted Lottery funding, which has secured its long term management. Management to date has included stump removal, scrub clearance, sheep fencing, together with annual clearance of birch, bracken and bramble and collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust to introduce sheep grazing, using a hardy breed of sheep from a local grazier. A wetland scrape has also been created to try and enhance the area of mire within the heathland. Identification and Confirmation of Important Features Habitats The Cinderhill Community Woodland does not sit in isolation, but forms part of a large block of ancient woodland, extending to some 72 hectares (171 acres). Its location, abutting Brenchley Wood, a nature reserve managed by Kent Wildlife Trust is of particular importance as it provides opportunities for joint working between Kent High Weald Project and Kent Wildlife Trust to achieve conservation gains over both sites. The site has a mosaic of habitats including ancient woodland, lowland heathland, and grassland and scrub. The wildlife value of each of these habitats has been described below: Ancient Woodland Ancient woodland is a very important habitat, as it cannot be replaced or be recreated. Many species benefit in ancient woodland because of the long continuity of habitat. Ancient woodland in Kent is important for several UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species such as turtle dove, song thrush and bullfinch, all of which have been recorded on the site, as well as hazel dormouse which is known from Brenchley Wood and so could occur here also. It is also important for bats and a variety of other woodland birds such as nightingale, firecrest, willow tit and hawfinch, some of which have been recorded on the site. The importance of ancient woodland in Kent is recognised by the fact that it is listed as a priority habitat type within the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan and has its own Habitat Action Plan (Anon, 2005). There are several objectives within the Habitat Action Plan that are relevant to the Cinderhill Community Woodland and which could be followed through in this management plan: Maintain the existing area of ancient semi-natural woodland; Develop management plans for ancient and semi-natural broadleaved woodlands that are not in Sites of Special Scientific Interest; Develop opportunities for all to enjoy woodland biodiversity. The woodland contains a good amount of dead timber. Dead wood is an important component of woodlands and will support a range of specialist species such as wood-boring beetles and fungi that are not found elsewhere. Standing dead wood is also valuable, providing a valuable food source for species such as woodpeckers, and nesting sites for birds and bats. Wet Woodland The wet woodland within Cinderhill Community Woodland is restricted to a narrow margin along the edges of the Tudely Brook. It is ancient in origin and so shares many of characteristics of the main ancient woodland area described above. This habitat was described as, supporting a rich and varied avifauna and providing ideal habitat for the illusive lesser spotted woodpecker Dendrocopus minor, which has been recorded historically here. (Allison, 2007). It also supported a sizeable colony of greater butterfly-orchid Platanthera chlorantha, a county scarce plant. Wet woodlands are often found to support large numbers of invertebrates, many of which are extremely restricted in their distribution. The invertebrate importance of the wet woodland on this site has not yet been investigated, although Kent High Weald Project has commissioned a survey for 2008. Wet woodland is a scarce habitat in Kent covering approximately 231.2ha (Anon, 2005) and its importance is recognised by the fact that it is listed as a priority habitat type within the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan and has its own Habitat Action Plan (Anon, 2005). There is one objective within the Habitat Action Plan that is relevant to Cinderhill Community Woodland and which could be followed through in this management plan: Maintain the total current extent of wet woodland; Lowland Heathland Lowland heathland is a particularly uncommon and important habitat in the south-east of England and across the country. As a consequence, many of the species it supports are also scarce or rare. The heathland present at Cinderhill Community Woodland represents over 3% of the 85 ha of remaining heathland habitat in Kent. It also supports a small area of Sphagnum mire which is even rarer in Kent, with a total area of just over 6ha (Moyse, 1998). It was found to support a number of notable species including reptiles and plants. The bird report (Allison, 2007) stated that, Despite the small size, the heath has already attracted stonechat. Other heathland bird potential is nightjar, tree pipit and wintering Dartford warbler. Whilst most of the heathland vegetation occurs as a single block that is fenced and grazed, fragments of heathy vegetation occur along the ride edges close to the main block. It is likely that clearance of selected areas of birch and sweet chestnut in these areas would result in the creation of wooded heath, leading to an overall increase in the heathland resource present at Cinderhill Community Wood. Lowland heathland is listed as a priority habitat type within the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan and has its own Habitat Action Plan (Anon, 2005), which includes reference to the ongoing heathland restoration at Cinderhill. There are several objectives within the Habitat Action Plan that are relevant to Cinderhill Community Woodland and which could be followed through in this management plan: Maintain the extent of all existing area of lowland heathland; Significantly increase the extent of heathland, particularly at or close to existing sites in the High Weald; Secure the appropriate conservation management of all existing and restored/recreated heathland. This is an important area of habitat and is considered to be the highest priority for management within the site. Grassland and Scrub The main areas of grassland are of relatively limited conservation value, although the bird report (Allison, 2007) has indicated that, green woodpecker Picus viridis was attracted to the grassland to feed on ants, and many bird species will feed on invertebrates living in dung produced by grazing animals. The most interesting areas of grassland and scrub on this site for wildlife are those areas that have developed over the highly disturbed ground. These areas will support a mosaic of flowering vegetation that will be visited by a wide range of invertebrates such as bees, hoverflies and butterflies, which in turn is likely to encourage foraging bats. The fruits from species such as elder and blackberry, together with the dense, tangled vegetation is also likely to attract large numbers of common birds and small mammals that will use the areas for feeding, shelter and nesting. Finally, the areas of rough grassland will also provide an autumn seed source for goldfinch Carduelis carduelis and other seed-eaters (Allison, 2007). Species Mammals (excluding bats) There are few mammal records from Cinderhill Community Woodland, all of common species. This is not considered to be a true reflection of the mammal interest of this site. For example, no signs of badger Meles meles have been recorded, but they are known to occur in the adjacent woodland and may well be foraging here. Similarly, although there are no records of hazel dormice, they are present in adjacent woodland and the structure and species diversity of the woodland at Cinderhill is considered to be suitable for this species. It is likely that further survey work would increase the number of mammal species known to occur within this site. Bats The fact that there are no records of bats from the Cinderhill Community Woodland site does not mean that the area provides poor habitat for bats. It simply means that the area may not have been surveyed, or that it may only have been visited when bats were elsewhere. Bats are highly mobile species and it is possible that all or any of the 13 bats species found in Kent may utilise the habitats found within and around Cinderhill Community Woodland, in order to fulfil their roosting and feeding requirements. The mosaic of habitats is considered to provide suitable conditions for bats: the woodland edges providing protection from predation for all species; the wet woodland, heathland, grassland and scrub areas are likely to attract plenty of insects, providing a good food source; whilst the standing dead wood may also provide suitable holes for roosting, along with older and/or damaged trees, with many crevices, cavities and loose bark providing roost sites. It is considered likely that a dedicated bat survey would find evidence of bat activity throughout the site. Birds Martin Allison recorded an impressive 45 species of bird during 2007 and concluded that Cinderhill Community Woodland supports populations of regionally important bird species. The site also supported a number of Red List / Kent Red Data Book species. These are birds that have undergone rapid population decline, or are of global conservation concern, and should therefore be particularly encouraged and protected. They include birds of woodland, such as the lesser spotted woodpecker and marsh tit, and birds of more open habitats, such as the linnet and yellowhammer, reflecting the mosaic of habitats occurring at Cinderhill Community Woodland. Two species are worthy of particular note, willow tit and stonechat. The 2007 bird report indicates that Cinderhill is considered to be of regional importance for the rapidly declining willow tit. The stonechat record dates from 2002 and Martin Allison says that this species was, no doubt attracted onto the recently-restored heathland, this is a potential breeding species. According to the bird survey, The highest concentration of bird activity appeared to be in the well-structured, damp woodland bordering the Tudeley Brook, where cover is available at all height levels from ground layer to canopy. The lowest bird concentration was on the open heath, but this area has the potential to attract scarce Kent species such as nightjar and stonechat Saxicola torquata. Amphibians and Reptiles The amphibians and reptiles recorded at Cinderhill Community Wood reflect the mosaic of habitats. In particular, the open heathland, the rough grassland and scrub and the newly coppiced area of sweet chestnut all provide important basking areas. The damp boggy patches are important, particularly for toads, but will also be utilised by the other species. The record of great crested newt from 2004 (Kent High Weald Project, 2004) is likely to be of an individual foraging in the site. The absence of ponds means that it is unlikely that great crested newt would breed here, although there are plenty of suitable ponds in the wider area. Adder is an important species for the site as in recent years, concern has been expressed that adder may have experienced a serious decline in Kent. Although only briefly mentioned in Kents Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) 1998, concerns over the adders status have convinced the Kent Reptile and Amphibian Group, that the snake should be highlighted in Kents Red Data Book. The Adder is referenced in the Kent BAP as a Standard Bearer/Quality Indicator Species for heathland & mire and lowland acid grassland. Adder however are not mentioned in BAP habitats from which the animal is most commonly recorded in Kent (www.kentarg.org). The criteria for the selection of Local Wildlife Sites in Kent (Kent Wildlife Trust, 2006) contains a chapter on reptiles. Criterion RE1 states that: Sites should be selected as Local Wildlife Sites where the site Supports three or more reptile species; OR Supports two snake species; OR Supports an exceptional population of one reptile species; OR Supports and assemblage of species scoring at least 4 points using the system set out (in the main criteria (not reproduced here); OR Supports a good or exceptional population of adder. Given that Cinderhill Community Woodland is known to support four reptile species, including two snake species, it is considered that this site is of county importance for its reptiles. Plants Nine vascular plant species and one moss species recorded within Cinderhill Community Woodland in 2007 are considered to be either of county importance or of restricted distribution in Kent and therefore should be considered for particular encouragement and protection. The heathland and bog supports six of these species and the other four are found within the ancient woodland areas on the plateau and along the stream. Thirty nine ancient woodland indicator species were recorded on the site in 2007. This is a high number (at least eighteen species are normally considered to provide evidence of ancient woodland status) and very much supports the ancient woodland status of Cinderhill Community Woodland. Their continued survival depends on the stable ecological conditions created by the continuity of woodland cover, and by the presence of native tree and shrub species. The ancient woodland also supports bluebell. It is worth emphasising that the UK is home to half the worlds total population of bluebell; this is thought to be due, in part, to traditional coppice management, which has excluded large herbivores from grazing and trampling in woodland. Recreational / Educational Usage The recreational / educational usage of the site has been considered in a separate report produced by Kent Wildlife Trust (November 2007). A full copy of the report is available at Appendix 3. A summary of the salient points is given below: Cinderhill Community Woodland is considered to have a great deal to offer the local community and general public, and has good potential as a site for visiting educational groups. However, poor signage and lack of specifically planned group activities mean that current opportunities are not being maximised. There are several factors currently limiting use of the site. There is only parking available for around 10 cars and the car park is not accessible to coaches, which would have to drop off visitors in the lane some 300m from the site entrance. There is some limited parking in the village of Matfield, but the subsequent walk to the site is likely to deter many visitors. There are also no toilet facilities on-site and no teaching shelter, thus limiting use of the site by schools. However, the local community can walk to the site and local schools are near enough to make half-day visits fairly easily. Access is limited to some of the major paths for disabled people and people with pushchairs; most are too steep, narrow and muddy. Way marking is also not particularly clear and there is limited site interpretation, making it difficult for the public and visiting groups to utilise the woods to their full potential. Results from the community consultation event organised by Kent High Weald Project in March 2007, indicated that the community are keen to see improvements made, particularly to the way marking, paths, car park and interpretation panels. Also, suggestions were made of leading guided walks, art events, rural skills demonstrations and educational activities. The table below provides a summary of the features that are considered to be of particular importance within Cinderhill Community Woodland. Table 1. Summary of Important Features at Cinderhill Community Woodland FeatureNational ImportanceCounty ImportanceLocal ImportanceAncient Woodland / Wet WoodlandLowHighHighHeathlandLowHighHighMosaic of grassland and scrubLowLowHighAssemblage of ReptilesLow HighHighAssemblage of BirdsLowMediumHighCommunity Use (Recreation / Education)LowLowHigh LITERATURE REFERENCES Anon. 2004. Dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius. Kent Biodiversity Action Plan.  HYPERLINK "http://www.kbap.org.uk" www.kbap.org.uk Anon. 2005. Mixed Broadleaved Woodland & Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites. Kent Habitat Action Plan.  HYPERLINK "http://www.kbap.org.uk" www.kbap.org.uk Anon. 2005. Wet Woodland. Kent Habitat Action Plan.  HYPERLINK "http://www.kbap.org.uk" www.kbap.org.uk Anon. 2005. Lowland Heath. Kent Habitat Action Plan.  HYPERLINK "http://www.kbap.org.uk" www.kbap.org.uk Bright, P., Morris, P., Mitchell-Jones, A. 2006. The Dormouse Conservation Handbook. Second Edition. English Nature, Peterborough  HYPERLINK "http://www.english-nature.org.uk/pubs/publication/PDF/Dormouse_web.pdf" http://www.english-nature.org.uk/pubs/publication/PDF/Dormouse_web.pdf Bullen, B. 2004. Fungi Species Found at Cinderhill Wood, Matfield. Sunday 9th October 2004. Unpublished. Forestry Commission. 2006. Woodland Management For Bats. Forestry Commission Publications, PO Box 25, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7EW.  HYPERLINK "http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/woodland-management-for-bats.pdf/$FILE/woodland-management-for-bats.pdf" http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/woodland-management-for-bats.pdf/$FILE/woodland-management-for-bats.pdf Forestry Commission & Natural England. 2007. Guidance on managing woodlands with bats in England. Forestry Commission. Forestry Commission & Natural England. 2007. Guidance on managing woodlands with dormice in England. Forestry Commission. Kent High Weald Project. 2004. A Snapshot, Cinderhill Woodland. December 2004. Unpublished. Kent High Weald Project. 2006. Reptile Survey, April to September 2006. Unpublished. Kent Wildlife Trust. 2006. Local Wildlife Sites in Kent. Criteria for Selection and Delineation. Version 1.3. Kent Wildlife Trust on behalf of the Kent Biodiversity Partnership. Kent Wildlife Trust. 2007. Cinderhill Wood Botany Report. Unpublished. Kent Wildlife Trust. 2007. Cinderhill Woods. Educational Report. Unpublished. Moyse, R. 1998. Cinderhill Community Woodland. Management Plan 1998-2003. Unpublished. Moorland Association. 2006. Heather Beetle Control.  HYPERLINK "http://www.moorlandassociation.org/heather_beetle.asp" http://www.moorlandassociation.org/heather_beetle.asp. The Moorland Association. Philp, E.G. 1982. Atlas of the Kent Flora. Kent Field Club, Maidstone. Pritchard, C., Phillips, P., Jones, A., Reid, C. 1994. A Provisional Inventory of Kents Ancient Woodland. English Nature, Peterborough. Rodwell, J.S. 1991. British Plant Communities. Volume 1. Woodlands and Scrub. Cambridge University Press. RSPB. 2002. The Population Status of Birds in the UK. Birds of Conservation Concern: 2002 2007. RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire. Rural Development Service. 2002. Technical Advice Note 1. Bracken Control, Vegetation Restoration and Land Management.  HYPERLINK "http://www.appliedvegetationdynamics.co.uk/web/bracken_TAN_final%202004.pdf" http://www.appliedvegetationdynamics.co.uk/web/bracken_TAN_final%202004.pdf Stephens, P.C. 2005. Guide to managing woodland rides and glades for wildlife. Forestry Commission South East England Conservancy, Cranbrook. The Heather Trust. 2004. Heather Beetle.  HYPERLINK "http://www.heathertrust.co.uk/heatherbeetle" http://www.heathertrust.co.uk/heatherbeetle. The Heather Trust. The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham & the Black Country. Birds of Urban Woodlands.  HYPERLINK "http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/urbanwt/WIS_pages/Woodland_birds.htm" http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/urbanwt/WIS_pages/Woodland_birds.htm Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. 2006. Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Plan.  HYPERLINK "http://www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/section.asp?catid=827" http://www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/section.asp?catid=827 UK Biodiversity Action Plan, 1995. Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report - Volume II: Action Plans. HMSO. Waite, A (Ed.). 2000. The Kent Red Data Book: a provisional guide to the rare and threatened flora and fauna of Kent. Kent County Council, Maidstone. MANAGEMENT AIMS 1. To maintain and enhance areas of ancient woodland and wet woodland. 2. To maintain and enhance areas of lowland heathland. 3. To maintain and enhance grassland / scrub mosaic. 4. To maintain and enhance assemblage of reptiles. 5. To maintain and enhance assemblage of bird species. 6. To maintain and promote quiet, informal, recreational activities such as walking and horse-riding. 7. Encourage the continuing community use of the site for education and to enhance the well being of local residents where this does not conflict with the nature conservation interest of the site. 8. Meet all legal and other obligations. 9. Pursue declaration of Cinderhill Community Woodland as a Local Nature Reserve. MANAGEMENT ISSUES & CONSTRAINTS The location of Cinderhill Community Woodland adjacent to the Brenchley Wood nature reserve provides great opportunities for collaborative working between Kent High Weald Project and Kent Wildlife Trust. Not only will this bring economic benefits for example sharing costs of contractors, but there is also the potential for big wildlife gains. This is particularly true of the heathland area, where creating links should help to increase the overall extent of this scarce habitat in Kent, thus helping to fulfil one of the objectives under the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan. In addition, treating the overstood sweet chestnut within both reserves as a single management unit, could help to benefit bird species like the nightjar. Although this species has not yet been recorded from Cinderhill Wood, Allison (2007), considers that the habitat could be enhanced to encourage this species to the wood. However, it does require a continuous presence of recently coppiced areas of at least 0.5ha; this would be difficult to achieve within the Cinderhill Wood complex alone, but could become achievable within the combined sweet chestnut blocks. There are believed to be several areas of conflict on the site: between the horse-riders and the local gypsy community, specifically their use of the grassland areas to provide grazing for the horses; and between the walkers and horse-riders. One of the comments from the Community Consultation day held in March 2007 was that, Cinderhill was a lovely place to ride but the problems with loose horses or horses tethered across paths by the gypsies made it too dangerous to use. I urge you to consider a dedicated route for riders At the time of the survey visits in 2007, there was one tethered horse, which appeared to be rotated between the grassland to the south and to the north of the car park. It is understood that the horse(s) and the rabbits are the primary management tool for the rough grassland areas and this level of management appears to be adequate for maintaining the open nature of these areas. It is considered that there ought to be some scope for retaining this level of grazing, and it is recommended that there should be dialogue with the local gypsy community to try and come to a mutually satisfactory arrangement. The creation of an all access path, to enable access by wheelchairs and buggies would be desirable. This type of path would be hard surfaced and should be accessible in all weather conditions and this may help to reduce the conflict between horse riders and pedestrians. There are no straightforward solutions, but maintaining an open dialogue between all groups may help to diffuse conflict. In terms of species management, there are some plant species that require special precautions: bracken is a natural component of the heathland vegetation within this site. However, recent research indicates that its spores may be carcinogenic, so Health and Safety precautions are necessary such as wearing a face mask while cutting or working in spore-producing bracken i.e. during late July, August and September. The presence of protected species may also have an impact on the management decisions that are made. In the case of birds, it is recommended that all woodland work that involves cutting trees and scrub should be undertaken outside the main breeding season, which is generally accepted to be during the period 1st April 31st August inclusive, in order to avoid disturbing the birds, their nests, eggs and young. People undertaking woodland work during the autumn and winter need to be aware that they may encounter dormice, which hibernate in woven nests at ground level. Dormice choose sites that are cool and moist, and so may be encountered under moss or leaf litter, in coppice stools or under brushwood. If hibernating dormice are encountered it is recommended that the immediate area should be left undisturbed, with management work continuing in the next suitable season. The coppicing season recommended to limit disturbance to dormice tends to be later than that recommended for birds extending between November and March. This minimises the likelihood of disturbing breeding dormice during the summer months and maximises their opportunity to feed on seeds and nuts before the trees are coppiced. Great crested newts may also be encountered, using the woodlands for shelter, dispersal and hibernation. The most favoured habitats for this species are broadleaved woodlands with a dense shrub layer, understorey of leaf litter and where there are adjacent glades/rides and ditches. Suitable resting places and hibernation sites may be above ground in dense undergrowth, beneath timber and log piles and amongst tree roots or underground in mammal burrows, under turf and rocks. The majority of typical woodland management activities will create some temporary disturbance to such habitats, but responsible woodland management can ensure the long-term maintenance of a range of terrestrial habitats in which great crested newts can thrive. If hibernating great crested newts are encountered, it is recommended that the immediate area should be left undisturbed, with management work continuing in the next suitable season. Finally, if survey work indicates that bats are present on site, then work should not be undertaken on any trees that may be potential roost sites until they have been checked by a licenced bat expert. Dormice, great crested newt and bats are also protected under the Habitats Regulations 1994 will also act as a constraint to management. With effect from 21st August 2007, the Regulations have been tightened to remove the majority of the defences originally put into the Regulations. This includes the incidental result defence which applies to acts which could constitute an offence but were the incidental result of an otherwise lawful activity and could not reasonably have been avoided. This means that anyone undertaking management work within Cinderhill Community Woodland that may affect dormice, great crested newts and bats will now have to give even more careful consideration to their presence and also their breeding sites and resting places. With this knowledge operators may choose to conduct their operations in a way that avoids affecting the European Protected Species, if that is possible, or apply for a licence to carry out an activity that would otherwise now be unlawful. Various organisations, such as Natural England and the Forestry Commission are in the process of producing interim guidance notes. Three such notes, What you need to know about dormice, Guidance on managing woodlands with great crested newts in England and Guidance on managing woodlands with bats in England have been attached at Appendix 5. Staff at Kent High Weald Project should familiarise themselves with the guidance notes provided in Appendix 4 and on relevant websites such as  HYPERLINK "http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/ewd/habitats-qa1.htm" \o "http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/ewd/habitats-qa1.htm" http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/ewd/habitats-qa1.htm and  HYPERLINK "http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/conservation/wildlife-management-licensing/habsregs.htm" http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/conservation/wildlife-management-licensing/habsregs.htm in order to ensure that all work is undertaken in accordance with these, and future, guidelines. Discussions should take place with Natural England or Defra if there are any concerns as to whether specific management works may require a licence. The heather beetle Lochmaea suturalis has not yet been recorded at Cinderhill Community Woodland. However this is an insect causing damage to heathland and moorland in other parts of the UK. The nearest known record is from Chislehurst Common in the London Borough of Bromley (Neil Coombs, pers.comm). Its larvae in particular can do extensive damage, particularly attacking young seedlings and old, degenerating heather plants, turning the heather a bright, rusty red before it dies. Older stands and recently burnt areas that are beginning to regenerate are therefore at the highest risk. Managers of Cinderhill Community Woodland should be aware of the potential threat from heather beetle and should try to reduce the risk to the heathland at Cinderhill, through ensuring a mixed age structure of heather and minimising the number and extent of bonfire sites. Any records of heather beetle occurring at Cinderhill Community Woodland should be passed onto the Kent & Medway Biological Records Centre (KMBRC). At the time of writing, Brenchley Parish Council allocates a sum of money to the Kent High Weald Project each year to support their habitat management work at Cinderhill. This vital, supportive role played by the Parish Council has meant that additional funding for management has also been made available through a Breathing Places grant, which has funded the production of this plan, community events and conservation taster days. The funding that will be required in the future to implement the aims and objectives of this plan may come from a variety of sources, some of which are likely to be determined by whether Cinderhill Community Woodland is designated as an LNR by the Borough Council. When declaring an LNR, the Local Authority accepts overall responsibility for ensuring that the special interest of the land is maintained through good management. LNR status can also provide additional leverage to fundraise on the basis of educational provision, as well as habitat management. Certain elements of this plan, such as moving the existing fenceline to create a through-grazing compartment across both Cinderhill and Brenchley Wood heaths, are likely to require a significant one-off investment. Potential sources of funding for this may include further Big Lottery grant money (applied for through Brenchley Parish Council), and funding from Natural England, secured by agreement to additional capital works under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme for Cinderhill Woods. The ongoing, year-by-year management of this site will, however, require a continued commitment to raising or allocating funds, either from the Parish Council or (should LNR status be declared, and approval by Councillors be given) Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. The Kent High Weald Project will continue to assist in this process as fully as possible. MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS Appendix 5 indicates, where relevant, the management project locations. Aim 1. To maintain and enhance areas of ancient woodland and wet woodland. Rationale: Ancient woodland is a habitat that cannot be replaced. The woodland at Cinderhill supports a particularly rich community of bird species. It is also important for a range of plant species; the wet woodland may support an important invertebrate fauna. Much of the ground flora interest has developed under active coppice conditions, and would be best conserved by the reintroduction of coppice management, particularly in the sweet chestnut woodland. Objective 1a: Reinstate coppice regime to the large block of sweet chestnut coppice. See Appendix 6 for suggested rotation compartment maps. Project 1a1. Collaborate with Kent Wildlife Trust with regard to coppicing. A joint approach with regards to Cinderhill Community Woodland and Brenchley Wood Nature Reserve should enhance the ability of both organisations to reinstate this valuable practice by sharing labour costs, etc. Management of both areas as a single unit should also bring wildlife benefits to species such as the nightjar. Project 1a2. Coppice the main block of sweet chestnut in coupes of at least 0.5ha in order to encourage nightjar. A belt of woodland should be left on the border of the caravan site to help minimise the disturbance that may potentially be caused by these works. The coppice rotation will depend on the amount of sweet chestnut within Cinderhill Wood and Brenchley Wood to be brought under coppice management; nightjars will require a continual supply of freshly coppiced areas (less than 4 -5 years old). Stack brushwood and timber on site, but do not allow stacks to cover more than 5% of the ground area, and do not site stacks where important plants are known to grow. Other timber should be stacked or burnt away from priority habitats, or may be chipped for use on path surfaces, or removed from site. Continue to retain occasional standard trees, up to a density of 6-8 standards per acre (around 30-40 for the whole of the sweet chestnut woodland area). Objective 1b: Maintain and enhance the network of paths and rides. Project 1b1. Continue to maintain a network of paths and rides. Each ride should have a scrubby marginal zone and also incorporate pinch points every 50 100m, where the tree canopy meets overhead to enable free movement by dormice. The scrubby marginal zone should be cut on a five ten year rotation. See Figure 4. Consider creating a series of scallops along the path and ride edges to produce areas of greater warmth and light within the woodland (see Figure 5). The scallops should ideally be in the range of 20-30m long and wide. Retain mature native trees within the scallops; coppice younger trees and maintain by re-coppicing on a ten year rotation. Objective 1c: Continue to coppice the streamside woodland Project 1c1. Coppice the streamside woodland, avoiding coppicing alder buckthorn, on a rotation of up to 25 years, so that on average, an area of 25m x 25m is cut each year. The smallest area to be cut at one time should be no less than 25m x 25m and the largest area to be cut no larger than 50m x 50m. Stack brushwood and timber on site, but do not allow stacks to cover more than 5% of the ground area, and do not site stacks where important plants are known to grow. Other timber should be stacked or burnt outside the streamside woodland, or may be chipped for use on path surfaces, or removed from site. Continue to retain occasional standard trees, up to a density of 6-8 standards per acre (around 25-30 for the whole of the streamside woodland area). All specimens of alder buckthorn should be retained. Care should be taken not to cause excessive trampling disturbance on wetter soils. Objective 1d: Monitor notable species within woodland areas. Project 1d1. Count the total number of flowering spikes of greater butterfly orchid during May each year. Ensure the results are written up and stored centrally at Kent High Weald Project Headquarters. Project 1d2. Visit the area where willow tit was recorded in 2007 (Allison, 2007) and monitor the number of individuals seen or heard singing. This should be done annually in April. Ensure the results are written up and stored centrally at Kent High Weal Project Headquarters. Project 1d3. Record the location of all wild service-trees and alder buckthorn. Store the information in map form and consider tagging the trees. Ensure that all contractors / staff and volunteers are made aware of their presence to avoid accidental removal or damage. Objective 1e: Commission further surveys of under recorded groups of animals Project 1e1. Commission a bat survey. Invite Kent Bat Group to undertake a general activity survey. A dusk bat walk could be held as a community event. Project 1e2. Commission a dormouse survey. This should be undertaken by a trained and licenced dormouse surveyor. Aim 2. To maintain and enhance areas of lowland heathland. Rationale: Lowland heathland / wooded heath is a rare and threatened habitat in the UK, and is listed in Annex 1 of the European Habitats Directive. Since 1800 there has been a 97% loss of lowland heathland in Kent. The heathland / wooded heath in Cinderhill Community Woodland is of county importance and supports notable plant and animal species. It requires active management to prevent it from succeeding to scrub and to maintain the vigour of the heather plants. There are opportunities here for collaborative working with Kent Wildlife Trust to link the heathland / wooded heath habitat at Cinderhill, with the heathland / wooded heath areas in the adjacent Brenchley Wood nature reserve in order to facilitate species dispersal and to increase the overall extent of lowland heathland / wooded heath. Objective 2a: Create physical links between the heathland / wooded heath block at Cinderhill and the heathland within Brenchley Wood. Project 2a1. Identify suitable fence lines for the extended heathland / wooded heath block. A suggested boundary has been included within Appendix 7. The fence lines should enable the heathland / wooded heath to be managed as one site, or two separate compartments if necessary. There should be full consultation with the Parish Council, local community and special interest groups prior to any changes to the fence lines being finalised and implemented. Objective 2b: Continue to manage heathland to maintain a vigorously growing patchwork of open heather, with a balanced range and spread of at least four dwarf shrub age classes, ideally through grazing, or through rotational cutting if grazing is not possible. Project 2b1. Graze with sheep regularly, between April and July. Adjust stocking density to ensure that any young heather is not damaged, or suppressed by other vegetation. Project 2b2. Cut heathland / wooded heath on a 20 year rotation as the heather degenerates, removing all arisings. Cut in mid-autumn if possible, cutting in strips rather than blocks to promote rapid colonisation. Cut along the contour to avoid run-off and erosion. Tools used could include brushcutters or pedestrian reciprocating-blade mower (such as an Allen scythe). Where using such equipment, especially power tools, it is important to walk the ground to be cut first in order to note and avoid any trip hazards, or obstructions which may damage the blade. Arisings may be burnt, or used for re-seeding if appropriate (see Project 2e), but only one fire-site should be permitted. Objective 2c: Continue to control bracken, aiming for less than 10% cover to ensure it does not restrict the regeneration of heather. Project 2c1. Control bracken through a mixture of cutting and spraying, where it is restricting the re-establishment of heather. Cut twice in summer (once in June and again in mid-July) for two years, removing all arisings. If possible cut above the height of regenerating heather. In the third year, spray the remaining bracken with a suitable herbicide, such as Asulox. Repeat the herbicide application during the fourth and fifth years as necessary. Care must be taken when using herbicides or other pesticides and all instructions and regulations followed. Barriers may be required to prevent entry into sprayed areas. Care must be taken when working with bracken, which is carcinogenic. Arms, legs, hands and feet should all be covered and cuffs at wrists and ankles should be tight. Collaboration with KWT over bracken clearance may benefit both sites. Objective 2d: Continue controlling scrub, aiming for less than 10% scrub cover by removing any birch regenerating or growing in heathland areas. Project 2d1. Continue to control birch and other scrub on the heathland. Once a year in autumn, work through the heathland, pulling out any birch seedlings. Where trees are larger, or where there is regeneration from cut stumps, cut back to ground level and treat with a suitable herbicide, such as ammonium sulphamate (Amcide) or glyphosate. Care must be taken when using herbicides or other pesticides and all instructions and regulations followed. Barriers may be required to prevent entry into treated areas. Objective 2e: If future resources permit, and it appears necessary, consider seeding the 2007 burn site (with seed gathered from mature heather clearance work onsite). Project 2e1. Use seed gathered from the mature heather cutting taking place under Project 2b2. The donor area should be cut between late September and December. The cuttings should be spread over the burn area (Defra recommendations are that dwarf scrub cuttings should be spread at 6 10 tonnes/ha, with seed capsules at 1.0 1.5kg/ha). Objective 2f: Retain small areas of bare ground within the heathland / wooded heath area in order to maintain/enhance habitat available for reptiles and invertebrates such as solitary bees. The amount of bare ground should occupy between 5 and 10% of the total heathland area. Project 2f1. Continue to retain in situ the rootplates of all fallen trees in the heathland area. Project 2f2. Any grazing of the heathland / wooded heath should encourage the creation of some small gaps in the sward through trampling. Project 2f3. When cutting heather, cut close to ground level alongside paths to create small areas of bare ground. Objective 2g: Increase the extent of heathland / wooded heath habitat by establishing a network of wide rides and glades in an area of birch woodland and oak standards to the north-east of the existing heathland area. See Appendix 5. Project 2g1. Clear rides of around 25m wide, with a scrubby marginal zone either side of a 10m wide central open strip (see Figure 4). Pinch points should be left at intervals of 50-100m, and wide scallops (see Figure 5) should be created occasionally between pinch points. Scallops should ideally be in the range of 20-30m long and wide and include naturally open areas within them. All workers should be made aware of the potential presence of dormice, and work should be undertaken during the period between November and March in order to minimise disturbance to this species. Project 2g2. Clear around path/ride junctions to create open glades, ideally as wide as twice the height of the trees. All workers should be made aware of the potential presence of dormice, and work should be undertaken during the period between November and March in order to minimise disturbance to this species. Project 2g3. Manage rides, glades and scallops according to information shown in Figure 4 below. All workers should be made aware of the potential presence of dormice, and work should be undertaken during the period between November and March in order to minimise disturbance to this species. Figure 4. Illustration indicating the zones and ideal management of a woodland ride.  Figure 5 Illustration of a scallop along a woodland ride. Objective 2h: If future resources permit, consider thinning area of birch woodland to the north-east of the existing heathland / wooded heath area to create an additional area of wooded heath. See Appendix 5 for location. Project 2h1. Thin around 50-80% birch, leaving some trees and occasional oak standards scattered across site with some small, more dense clumps of trees, to create wooded heath. Retain those trees that have the highest potential as bat roosts where possible. Objective 2i: If resources permit, clear scrub from around the existing historic Sphagnum mire area and maintain as part of the extended heathland / wooded heath area. Project 2i1. Clear all trees from the historic Sphagnum mire area, and treat all stumps with a suitable herbicide. Do not use any herbicide sprays on the mire areas. Pull any tree seedlings and encroaching bramble by hand at least once a year in autumn/winter. Cut all mire areas using a brushcutter at least once a year in autumn/winter. Remove all arisings. Care must be taken when using herbicides or other pesticides and all instructions and regulations followed. Barriers may be required to prevent entry into treated areas. Aim 3. Maintain and enhance grassland / scrub mosaic. Rationale: The grassland / scrub mosaic complements the heathland and mature woodland elements of the site. The rough grassland, bare areas and uneven-aged scrub provides favourable conditions for reptiles, birds, invertebrates and small mammals. Without management this area will eventually develop into secondary woodland leading to a reduction in overall species diversity. Objective 3a: Manage grassland to maintain and enhance its biodiversity value. Project 3a1. Continue existing mowing regime of the playing field. Project 3a2. Manage remaining areas of rough grassland by grazing (rabbits, continued use of tethered horses, or introduction of livestock), supplemented by cutting where necessary. The aims of management should be to: Achieve an uneven sward height (including tussocks) of between 5cms and 15cms. Ensure that the cover of scrub and ruderal species such as common nettle within the grassland areas does not exceed 5%. Ensure that at least 10% of the grassland areas should have grasses and wildflowers that are allowed to go to seed, with the seed heads left undisturbed. Ensure that flowering heads of wildflowers should be frequent during the spring and summer. Objective 3b: Manage areas of scrub to maintain a diverse age and height structure. Project 3b1. 10% of all established scrub should be cut to ground level annually using a mix of hand tools and power tools. The cuttings should be stacked to create habitat piles, or removed and disposed of by safe non-polluting means. All cutting should take place outside the bird breeding season (April to August inclusive). Objective 3c: Continue to remove rubbish and litter from the site and to discourage further fly-tipping. Project 3c1. Continue to clear any rubbish from the site and stack for collection by the Tunbridge Wells Cleaner Borough Team. Maintain fencing around car park. Aim 4. To maintain and enhance the assemblage of reptiles. Rationale: Cinderhill Community Woodland is considered to be of county importance for its population of reptiles. These thrive in the mosaic of habitats found on this site. In particular, the open heathland, the rough grassland and scrub and the newly coppiced area of sweet chestnut all provide important basking areas. Objective 4a: Manage woodland, heathland / wooded heath and grassland / scrub habitats to maintain and enhance existing reptile populations. Work undertaken in connection with Aims 1, 2 and 3 should benefit the current reptile populations and no extra management projects are considered necessary here. Project 4a1. Continue to monitor reptile populations, via the survey project set up in 2005. Ensure that all work is written up and that the results are stored in an easily accessible location at Kent High Weald Project main office. Results should be compared with previous years. Any sustained downward trends, or sudden reductions in estimated populations that are considered significant should be discussed with Kent Reptile and Amphibian Group. Amendments should be made to this management plan if considered appropriate. Aim 5. To maintain and enhance the assemblage of bird species. Rationale: Cinderhill Community Woodland supports populations of regionally important bird species. These depend on the habitats available for successful nesting and feeding, and winter shelter for resident species. As with other flora and fauna, the best way to maintain the bird diversity is to manage a mosaic of habitats, which offer a selection of niches for different requirements (Allison, 2007). Objective 5a: Manage woodland, heathland / wooded heath and grassland / scrub habitats to maintain and enhance existing bird populations. Work undertaken in connection with Aims 1, 2 and 3 should benefit the current bird populations and no extra projects are considered necessary here. Objective 5b: Provide habitat conditions suitable for nightjar. Project 5b1. Manage the sweet chestnut coppice in Cinderhill, and the adjacent Brenchley Wood as a single unit, aiming for a coupe size of approximately 0.5ha. Coupes of this size are known to be able to support a pair of nightjar in the first few years of regrowth, if the surrounding habitat is suitable. Project 5b2. Monitor areas of sweet chestnut, cut under Project 5b1, specifically for nightjar. Objective 5c: Provide habitat conditions suitable for willow tit. Project 5c1. Ensure that the area of birch and hazel in the southwest of the site (refer to Appendix 5.3 in the 2007 bird report for exact location) is managed by small scale coppicing, whilst maintaining plenty of dead stumps and snags (willow tits excavate their own nest holes out of rotten wood. Project 5c2. Consider ring barking selected trees within the area described under Project 5c1. This will create standing dead wood that, in the long term, will provide suitable habitat for willow tit. Objective 5d: Increase the amount of standing dead wood. Project 5d1. Consider ring barking selected mature trees well away from public paths and trails. In addition to provide nesting sites for birds, standing dead wood is also an important habitat for invertebrates and fungi. Aim 6. To maintain and promote quiet, informal, recreational activities such as walking and horse-riding. Rationale: Cinderhill Community Woodland is an important open space for informal recreational activities, within the local community. Quiet activities should be encouraged and the potential for conflict between different site users should be addressed, to help ensure the value of the site to the local community is maintained. Objective 6a: Maintain existing path network Project 2C1. Continue to maintain the existing path network and associated ditches, bridges and furniture. Once a year in autumn or winter, paths should be inspected and vegetation cut back to a minimum width of 2m (6 ft) and a minimum height of 3.5m (12 ft). Where jumps have been constructed, continue to allow at least an additional 1m (3 ft) on one side of the jump and an additional 1m overhead clearance. Objective 6b: Create at least one all access path suitable for wheelchair and buggy use. Project 6b1. Identify a suitable route and create all access path using guidelines contained within the BTCV footpaths handbook ( HYPERLINK "http://handbooks.btcv.org.uk/handbooks/index/book/86" http://handbooks.btcv.org.uk/handbooks/index/book/86 ). Objective 6c: Use interpretive material and signs to encourage site users to keep to appropriate paths, and to ensure that all site users act safely, and respect the needs and wishes of others. This objective can be addressed through projects 7a1 and 7a2. Objective 6d: Create informal seating for visitors to rest and enjoy the views. Project 6d1. Identify several suitable locations for the installation of seats. Seats should be robust and resistant to vandalism. It might be possible to create suitable seats from cut timber on the site. Objective 6e: Address conflict areas between horse riders, walkers and the use of land made by the local Gypsy community as identified in the public consultation. Project 6e1. Continue to address areas of conflict by involving all stakeholders in discussions about areas of conflict. Consider employing the services of a professional facilitator if relationships deteriorate. Project 6e2. Explore the possibility of separating the footpaths from the paths used by riders. This may be achieved through Project 6b1. Project 6e3. Use volunteer rangers (Project 7a3) to monitor the paths regularly and provide feedback on their condition to Kent High Weald Project. Areas that are badly churned and impassable to pedestrians should be repaired promptly. Project 6e4. Liaise directly with the local gypsy community to agree suitable areas where horses may be tethered. Aim 7. To encourage the continuing community use of the site for education and to enhance the well being of local residents where this does not conflict with the nature conservation interest of the site. Rationale: Improved understanding of what they see can increase the enjoyment and value people get from visiting a site. As well as educating, sign boards, interpretation panels, leaflets and public events also make people aware of a site and its position in the local landscape. Interpretation materials should not just focus on scientific aspects however, and may emphasise fun and aesthetic aspects of the countryside to encourage people to use, appreciate and enjoy the site. Greater understanding and appreciation also leads to less misuse of the countryside, and recognition of the value of, and need for, conservation work. Objective 7a. Enhance Site Interpretation Resources Project 7a1 Install clear interpretation panels at all main access points to the site. The panels should include a brief description of habitat types and their management, the wildlife that could be expected to be seen and a brief summary of the sites history. Project 7a2. Provide a series of leaflets on various topics, such as site history, wildlife identification (with simple drawings), and description of nature trails through the wood. Project 7a3. Consider appointing local people to act as volunteer Woodland Rangers to guide walks and support the schools/groups. This should help to create an atmosphere of local identity and ownership. The need for training for this role would need to be considered. Objective 7b: To encourage use of the site by local schools and community groups. Project 7b1. Provide a resource pack containing a series of activities that could be linked in with the National Curriculum. Suitable sheets could include, but not necessarily be limited to: A4 sheets from the OS Map covering the local area and then a local base map for reference and orientation. Geology/ Geography sheet of diagrams and information. Environmental factors such as soils, climate/weather and human activity during past and recent times which has led to the current landscape and wildlife. Why ancient woodland is such an important habitat. Information about traditional site management such as coppicing, pollarding, the charcoal industry. Why heathland is such an important habitat Identification sheets for the trees, plants, birds, reptiles, etc. with associated diagrams/notes/ pictures. Some seasonal interpretation linked to particular walks and activities. Information about sources where more detailed facts can be obtained, i.e. local library. Ideas for particular studies which could be self-taught or using a qualified tutor especially linked to National Curriculum for the use of the Schools. Project 7b2. If resources allow, produce and distribute a regular newsletter for the local community. Project 7b3. Develop contacts with the local press and submit press releases advertising any planned community events. Project 7b4. Consider setting up a blog for Cinderhill Community Woodland on the internet. This could include provision of information about specific tasks, include photographs of the site and ongoing activities. It is important to ensure that any web-based information is updated regularly. Objective 7c: To organise and run a series of activities throughout the year that will attract adults, family groups and youth activity groups to Cinderhill Community Woodland. Project 7c1. Establish the skills base available within the local community to see whether it would be possible to use volunteers to run a selection of activities from the list provided under Project 7c3. Project 7c2. Consider whether the resources are available to invite local experts to run a selection of activities from the list provided under Project 7c3. Project 7a3. Examples of suitable activities could include, but not necessarily be limited to: Minibeast hunts for creepy crawlies in the leaves and rotting wood on the ground and in the soil. Minibeast hunts with sweep nets amongst the vegetation on the heathland, particularly butterflies, moths and dragonflies in the summer. Minibeast hunts amongst the vegetation surrounding the grassland. Comparisons of different habitats, looking at adaptation of invertebrates. Comparison of coppiced woodland and mature woodland. Seasonal nature trails, finding and identifying trees, leaves, seeds, flowers, fungi, ferns, mosses. Specific tree studies with the more open area of mature woodland measuring circumference, height, looking at bark, leaves and seeds. Making comparisons with other trees. Collecting leaves and twigs for creative Art work such as a mosaic and using the woods for real-life sketching. Hugging a tree activities and other multi-sensory activities. Using senses to collect words and ideas for creative writing of stories and poems. Small mammal trails looking for droppings, footprints (casting footprints), homes of small mammals. Building a shelter, wig-wam style in the wood, bird hide. Bird watching explore how the site is used by different species of birds during the breeding season and in the winter. Historical studies looking for clues and reading information about the history of the wood. Use of the grassland area and/or woods for drama. Photography. Using simple maps and compass follow instructions to find clues and features in the woods to solve a mystery. Art and craft family activities e.g. collecting and making hoops of hazel or chestnut, forming a net across hoop with wool and entwining collected pieces of nature into the hoop. Wood work workshops on the grassland area making bird boxes and bat boxes to take home. Carry out Wildlife Study Days, using the local village hall as the classroom base and Cinderhill Woods for the fieldwork. Examples of topics: Woodland flowers; fungi; Managing Heathland. Hands on training days. Examples of topics: Small Mammal Trapping; Moth Trapping; Bat Evenings. Aim 8. To meet all legal and other obligations Rationale: As a site with public access, Cinderhill Community Woodland must be kept as safe as can reasonably be expected. Fences and gates should be maintained in good order, paths should be kept free of trip hazards as far as possible and trees alongside and adjacent to paths must be safe. Woodlands in particular have a number of inherent risks associated with them; roots and stumps are trip hazards, trees may drop dead or dying limbs, or may fall in high winds, and management methods, e.g. tree felling, is potentially dangerous. Health and Safety law insists that systems are set up to minimise the risk to any person being injured by a hazard on a site. The UK Habitat Regulations were amended in August 2007, increasing the protection given to the breeding, roosting and resting places of European Protected Species (EPS), including great crested newts, all bat species and the hazel dormouse. This must be taken into account when planning and carrying out management at Cinderhill Community Woodland, to avoid any offence being committed. Objective 8a: To carry out a safety check on the site at least once a year. Project 8a1. Ensure that an appropriate person inspects the site thoroughly at an agreed time each year, and checks: Tree safety, including any signs of damage or disease, and any deadwood likely to pose a risk to anybody on or adjacent to the site; Any trip-hazards or other hazards on paths or in the car park; Any dumped material or rubbish likely to pose a risk; The safety of any stacked timber; The safety of fences, gates and stiles; Any other hazards which may pose a risk to visitors or workers on site, or to site neighbours. Any risks identified should be acted upon immediately. Project 8a2. Record all known utilities and ensure that all operations reflect safe working practices. Objective 8b: To carry out a risk assessment for the Cinderhill Community Woodland Project 8b1: Check that an appropriate risk assessment has been completed for the Cinderhill Community Woodland. Ensure that the risk assessment is being acted upon. If there is no risk assessment, then appoint an appropriate person to oversee production of a risk assessment for the site. Project 8b2. Following completion of Project 8b1, undertake an annual review of the Risk Assessment each year and update as necessary. Ensure that all relevant people are aware of the contents of the Risk Assessment and that it is being acted upon. Objective 8c: To ensure that all volunteers, contractors and staff working on site are fully aware of health and safety procedures. Project 8c1. Ensure that all volunteers are properly instructed in safe working methods and the safe use of tools. If appropriate, arrange safety training sessions for volunteer groups. Ensure that volunteer groups working on site on their own follow safe working methods, and that group leaders give the necessary instruction in safe working methods and safe tool use. Project 8c2. Ensure that all contractors and staff working on site are properly trained in safe working methods. Make sure that necessary safety equipment, including safety clothing, first aid kits, warning notices and day-glo warning tape and other necessary materials and apparatus, are available at all times. Objective 8d: To ensure that the works proposed for this site comply with any conditions of tenure. Project 8d1. Check the title deeds for the site to ensure that no measures proposed in this management plan conflict with any conditions of covenants contained within the deeds. If necessary, modify or review this management plan to ensure that it complies with any applicable conditions. Objective 8e: Ensure that requirements for any European Protected Species found at the site are taken into account. See Appendix 5. Project 8e1. Ensure requirements for EPS (great crested newts, bats and dormice) that are known to occur, or which may occur within the site are taken into account, by following best practice guidance, published by Forestry Commission and Natural England, when carrying out habitat management, or by applying for a licence where necessary. Further information should be sought from Natural England. Aim 9. Pursue declaration of Cinderhill Community Woodland as a Local Nature Reserve Rationale. Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are for both people and wildlife. They are places with wildlife or geological features that are of special interest locally. They offer people special opportunities to study or learn about nature or simply to enjoy it. They also provide a great opportunity for people to become involved in the management of their local environment. Such community activity can form part of the Local Agenda 21 process and, at the same time help implement Local Biodiversity Action Plans. One of the questions asked during the public consultation exercise (Kent High Weald Project, March 2007) was, Would you like to see Cinderhill designated as a Local Nature Reserve? Fifty out of a total of 51 people said yes. This indicates that there is a level of public support for LNR designation. The declaration of Cinderhill Community Woodland as an LNR would not alter the management of the site, or the way in which people can use the site. It may help to build relationships between the local authority, national and local nature conservation organisations and local people. It may also be seen by local authority council members and their officers as a useful planning tool and makes it possible to apply bye-laws which can help in managing and protecting the site. In addition, because Local Nature Reserve is a statutory declaration, it is a very clear signal to a local community of the local authority's commitment to nature conservation. Finally, LNRs can also help local authorities meet Local Agenda 21, Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) and Sustainable Development targets. Following research, Natural England, recommended in 1996 that LNRs ought to be provided at the level of 1 ha per thousand population and accessible natural green space at levels ranging from 20ha to 500 ha. Cinderhill Community Woodland appears to meet the criteria necessary for designation as a LNR: it is greater than 2ha in size; it is capable of being managed with the conservation of nature and/or the maintenance of special opportunities for study, research or enjoyment of nature as the priority concern; it is of some reasonable natural interest and of high value in the local context for the informal enjoyment of nature by the public; and, as the owner, Tunbridge Wells BC has a legal interest in the land concerned. Objective 9a: Encourage the Local authority to consider designating Cinderhill Community Woodland as a Local Nature Reserve. Project 9a1. Kent High Weald Project to explore the feasibility of LNR designation with relevant staff at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Project 9a2. Discuss the proposals informally with Natural England (Ashford office). Project 9a3. Undertake extensive consultation with Brenchley Parish Council and the local community.  Globally threatened species, or those whose populations or range has declined rapidly in recent years, or those that have declined historically and not shown a substantial recent recovery (Allison, 2007).  Species considered to be rare or threatened within Kent.  Plant species occurring in less than 5% of the 1044 tetrads in Kent, as listed in Philp (1982).  Adder, grass snake, viviparous lizard and slow-worm.  Western gorse, bell heathe and green-ribbed sedge.  Adder, grass snake, viviparous lizard, slow-worm.  NB different tasks may need to be undertaken by different people or different organisations as appropriate e.g. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Brenchley Parish Council, Kent High Weald Project staff or volunteers.     Kent Wildlife Trust Cinderhill Community Woodland Management Plan. - PAGE 9- April 2008 Crown copyright. All rights reserved. Licence No: AL100004919 Crown copyright. All rights reserved. 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