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Clearing land at Earles Colne to promote biodiversification
Amerio Forestry Contracts was appointed by landowner Ben Stanbury to carry out a structured land clearance project on a mixed woodland and scrub site. The land had become overgrown through years of limited intervention, resulting in suppressed ground flora, overcrowded trees, and reduced biodiversity. The primary objective was to clear selected trees and dense brush while promoting healthier long-term growth and improved ecological balance.
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An initial site survey was carried out to assess tree health, species mix, canopy density, and access constraints. Several mature trees were subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), requiring careful planning and liaison with the local authority. Amerio Forestry Contracts managed the full TPO process on behalf of the client, ensuring all works were compliant and approved prior to any operations commencing.
The site comprised self-seeded sycamore, overstood ash, bramble, hawthorn, and dense scrub growth, which was limiting light penetration and restricting natural regeneration. A selective clearance strategy was agreed to avoid over-clearing and to retain key habitat features.
Works began with targeted tree surgery, including the removal of dead, diseased, and poorly formed specimens. Crown lifting and selective thinning were carried out on retained trees to improve structure, airflow, and light levels. Particular attention was paid to maintaining canopy continuity where appropriate, while opening up shaded areas to encourage understory regeneration.
Brush and scrub clearance was undertaken using a combination of chainsaws, mechanical clearing equipment, and hand tools where access was restricted. Material was processed on site, with brash chipped and timber extracted for firewood where suitable. This reduced waste and ensured the site was left tidy and manageable.
The site comprised self-seeded sycamore, overstood ash, bramble, hawthorn, and dense scrub growth, which was limiting light penetration and restricting natural regeneration. A selective clearance strategy was agreed to avoid over-clearing and to retain key habitat features.
Amerio Forestry Contracts adopted a low-impact approach throughout the project. Wildlife checks were completed prior to felling, and clearance was phased to minimise disruption. Standing deadwood and selected habitat piles were retained to support invertebrates and small mammals.
By opening the canopy and reducing competition, light was able to reach the woodland floor, encouraging the regeneration of native ground flora and young trees. This intervention supports a more diverse age structure and species mix, improving overall woodland resilience.
The completed clearance transformed the site from dense, unmanaged scrub into a healthier, more balanced landscape. Improved light levels stimulated new growth, while retained trees benefitted from reduced competition and improved crown development. The land is now better positioned for ongoing woodland management and natural succession.
The client gained a safer, more usable site with long-term ecological benefits, achieved through compliant, carefully managed forestry operations.
This project demonstrates Amerio Forestry Contracts’ ability to deliver sensitive land clearance works that balance practical land management with environmental responsibility. By combining experienced tree surgery, regulatory knowledge, and a measured forestry approach, the team restored a neglected area into a thriving and sustainable woodland environment.
Amerio Forestry Contracts Ltd provides a wide range of Land and Forestry based contracting services across the south east..