Ancient woodland damage investigation is completed

Trees have been chopped down and damaged at the ancient Chaddesden Wood Local Nature Reserve in Derby. Images by LDRS.

No suspects have been found after several trees were seriously and ‘deliberately’ damaged at an ancient woodland in Derby.

It was reported in April how ‘youths’ debarked and chopped down trees to make dens at the Chaddesden Wood nature reserve in Oakwood.

It was confirmed that two mature oak trees, understood to be around 100-years-old, were seriously damaged and are now in ‘decline’.

Both trees have a combined value of £145,000 and are under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – a legal order to protect specific trees.

But dozens of other trees were also chopped down to make dens, upset volunteers said.

The ancient woodland – popular with dog owners and walkers – is owned by Derby City Council but is cared for on its behalf by the Friends of Chaddesden Wood committee.

The city council launched its own investigation into the damage but a new statement released this week said it has found no suspects responsible.

A spokesperson for Derby City Council said: “Our ongoing investigation into the damage of trees at Chaddesden Wood Local Nature Reserve has now concluded.

“After working with Derbyshire Police and other partners, unfortunately, we were unable to identify those responsible.

“We are regularly monitoring the two mature oak trees. Due to the extent of the damage and in accordance with arboricultural and nature reserve management, they are now being managed as trees in decline.

“This allows us to monitor their condition, manage any public safety risks, and, where appropriate, retain their valuable habitat for wildlife.

“The Friends of Chaddesden Wood Local Nature Reserve are continuing to monitor the site, reporting concerns and working to keep the woodland safe for people and wildlife.”

Volunteers from the Friends group were left devastated by the damage and immediately gathered to break up the dens and clean up the woodland.

They believed the “criminal damage” was done by “youths” and reported it to the police who put out an appeal for more information.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, cabinet member for leisure at the city council, has spoken of the importance of the woodland to Derby and wildlife.

He said: “We ask all visitors to treat this ancient habitat with respect so that our volunteers can continue their vital work in protecting it for everyone in Derby.”