Cobham Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the Kent Downs National Landscape, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its saproxylic invertebrates. The site’s ecology is deeply influenced by the presence of dead wood, especially within the wood pasture habitat, which constitutes the largest part of the property. Historically, Cobham Wood was the deer park of Cobham Hall, home to an impressive collection of veteran and ancient trees, including Oak, Hornbeam, and Field Maple.
In a bid to enhance biodiversity, the National Trust is undertaking a project to convert approximately five hectares of sweet chestnut coppiced woodland to wood pasture. While sweet chestnuts are valuable, its monoculture planting has resulted in a dense canopy that restricts light on the woodland floor, creating a poor habitat for wildlife. The project involves harvesting chestnuts, removing remnant stools, and replanting the area with a mix of native broadleaved trees, which will grow at a lower density. This approach aims to create 4 hectares of new wood pasture, rich in biodiversity, and mirroring the structure of the adjacent ancient wood pasture.
The harvested chestnuts have been repurposed for fencing, while the tops have been used in biomass energy plants. Following the harvest, the site was deer-fenced, and the chestnut regrowth was mulched, creating the ideal planting medium. Native trees were planted with biodegradable tubes for protection, and mature standard trees were retained to create glades within the site. Two public footpaths cross the area, allowing visitors to engage with the landscape.
This new planting area will remain grazing-free for 10-15 years, allowing the trees to establish. Once sufficiently grown, the fence dividing the new and old wood pasture will be removed, allowing grazing by Highland cattle to begin, further enriching the habitat. This project is a step towards restoring a nature-rich environment that will thrive for generations to come.
