Popularity of woodland 'taking its toll'

The meeting focused on the woodland's ecology and long-term planting strategy

The popularity of a woodland is degrading the environment, a public meeting has heard.

The meeting about the future of Egypt Woods on Thursday focused on ecology, long-term planting strategy and the challenge of balancing recreation with conservation.

Freelance ecologist John Pinel told the meeting at Trinity Parish Hall the woodland was "a place loved by many" but warned its popularity had taken a toll.

Jersey Trees for Life, which organised the meeting, said mountain biking in the woodland would not be banned but they warned unauthorised digging and trail-building was damaging and needed to stop.

Alex Morel, chief executive of Jersey Trees for Life, said landowners had planted different species over the years

Alex Morel, chief executive of Jersey Trees for Life, told the audience the area's diversity was both its strength and its challenge.

"Different landowners have planted different species over the years, creating a fascinating patchwork of habitats," she said.

Mr Pinel described the woodland as "a place loved by many" but its popularity was affecting the site.

"Years of storms, soil erosion and heavy use have taken their toll," he said.

"We're not trying to stop people enjoying it, far from it, but we do need everyone to respect the land, stick to the paths and follow the countryside code."

Ecologist John Pinel said the woodland had been degraded by heavy use

Trinity resident Anna Bradstock said she had seen "dramatic change" in the woodland over the past two decades.

"Light use is fine - we should aim to 'leave only footprints' - but digging around tree roots or bringing in heavy machinery simply isn't sustainable," she said.

"Nobody wants to exclude anyone. We just need to talk and find the right places for different activities so the woodland can recover."

Connor Carré, trials chairman for the Jersey Motorcycle and Light Car Club, said riders shared the same goal.

"We've always worked with landowners and ecologists to minimise our impact - even going back after events to repair and reseed the ground," he said.

"No-one wants to lose access. It's about respect and balance."