Stratford-on-Avon District Council have improved the protection of ancient trees and woods in their Local Plan, thanks in part to a joint submission by the Woodland Trust and Ancient Tree Forum. 

The revised draft of the Plan includes much better protection for ancient woods, by distinguishing between ancient woods and other woods when it comes to development proposals. It states that "The loss of ancient semi-natural woodland will be resisted and such woodlands will be afforded strong protection from development and land uses that would harm their contribution to biodiversity and/or landscape character" (Policy EF.9). 

It also includes new wording recognising the value of ancient trees. In the text explaining Policy EF.10 on TPOs it now states "Some mature trees are of great antiquity and merit the description 'ancient tree'. Such trees can make a particular contribution to landscape character, local distinctiveness and biodiversity, while they may also form important cultural features with historical associations. These qualities will be taken into account when assessing the appropriateness of measures to secure the trees' protection and enhancement."

Ed Pomfret, Public Affairs Officer for the Woodland Trust says “We welcome the changes Stratford council have made to their Local Plan and we hope that these policies will go forward into the final approved plan without change”.