Sydenham Hill Wood Work

Storms in the Wood The recent storms have brought down some trees in the Wood, some of them being quite substantial. Often, the tree has become old and weak and if covered in ivy, the extra weight can destabilise  it, making it vulnerable to being blown down in particularly strong winds. A sycamore was brought down during Storm Isha on the 21st January and the fallen tree blocked the upper path leading from Cox's Walk eastern entrance. Luckily it fell during the night when no-one was around. The path was reopened  on Tuesday by Sydenham Hill Wood Conservation Officer, Sam Taylor after he had sawn off the tops of the branches which were blocking the way. On Wednesday, volunteers carried on the clearing up job. The fallen sycamore blocking the path (photo Sam Taylor) The path cleared and reopened  (photo Sam Taylor) Elsewhere in the Wood, volunteers have created a hurdle made of woven hazel to protect an area of wood anemones. Hurdles are a sustainable way o...

New Year, New Bridge  The reconstruction of the Cox's Walk footbridge is getting under way in earnest. From today (15th January), Cox's walk will be closed from the gate opposite the derelict Grove Tavern on the South Circular up to and across the bridge to the junction with Lapsewood Walk. This is done for safety reasons as heavy machinery will be at work in the area. This means that entry to the Wood will be possible only from Crescent Wood Rd and through Dulwich Wood.  Map showing diversionary routes during bridge reconstruction. View from the western side of the bridge, one of the saved oaks seen up against the green hoarding. Bridge reconstruction from the western entrance from Cox's Walk Elsewhere in the Wood, the storms over the Christmas and New Year period have brought down a number of trees. It is always sad to see large and venerable trees being felled by the winds but it is a natural part of woodland regeneration. The opening up of woodland floor to light will...