As part of our ongoing heathland restoration programme, tree stump removal works will begin across Avon Heath Country Park from August 2026. These works form an important part of our long-term management of the heathland and support the conservation objectives of the Air Quality Mitigation Project.
Following previous restoration work, numerous tree stumps remain across the heath. Removing these stumps is essential to allow the Rangers to cut and manage regrowth, helping to maintain the open heathland habitat that many rare plants and animals depend upon. The work will also improve access for essential habitat management vehicles, allowing rangers to undertake ongoing conservation work such as heather management, bracken control and wildfire prevention. Improved access will help emergency responses to wildfires through the use of firefighting equipment and water bowsers.
The timing of the work has been carefully planned to minimise disturbance to wildlife. Activities will take place after the bird nesting season and before species begin to enter periods of hibernation or reduced activity. Rangers will continue to assess working areas and adapt operations where necessary to protect sensitive habitats and species.
The project will use specialist stump removal equipment designed to minimise environmental impacts. Unlike traditional stump removal methods, the machinery works directly on individual stumps, reducing damage to surrounding vegetation such as heather. Lower root systems will remain in place, helping to retain underground habitats used by reptiles and small mammals.
Visitors may notice occasional temporary path and track closures while work is taking place. These closures will only affect areas immediately around the machinery and will move throughout the day as work progresses. Routes will be reopened as soon as it is safe to do so.
The project is expected to take approximately six weeks and will cover North Park, South Park and the Matchams Viewpoint area. Visitors with questions about the work are welcome to speak to a ranger in the Visitor Centre.
