Woodland Strategy 11.34 Mb - the Dorset AONB

Section 3
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Accessible woodlands
Over 50% of woodlands and forests in Dorset are accessible by public rights of way or
permissive access for a distance of 100 metres or more, but the majority of these can only be
easily reached by car or some other form of motorised transport. Only 12.35% of Dorset’s
population has access to woodlands over 2ha in size within 500 metres of where they live
(Woodland Trust 2004).
Only 26% of schools are within 500 metres (walking distance) of an accessible woodland and
whilst the majority of smaller towns and villages are within walking distance of a woodland
or forest, the bigger urban areas have little or no accessible woodland within walking
distance.
As populations grow there is a need to identify and encourage multi-functional woodland
areas to meet the increasing need for recreational opportunities. Woodland habitats tend to
be more ‘robust’ than some other habitat types, and when in a peri-urban landscape they are
capable of absorbing high numbers of people and their associated pressures.
Horse riding in woodland © Forestry Commission
Discussing all ability access © Forestry Commission
Woodlands that are accessible to the public, both urban and rural, are significant in that they
provide places where people feel they can get away from the stresses of everyday life.
Woodlands and trees have an important role to play in the physical, mental and spiritual
wellbeing of people, and the health impacts of well designed woodlands can be extremely
beneficial. Engaging communities with local woodland design and management can develop
a sense of pride in the woods, ensuring that the woods stay as a place for peaceful and
sociable recreation.