Barriers and boulders installed at Nottinghamshire beauty spot to stop big problem

A number of new barriers have been installed at Sherwood Forest after long-running fly-tipping issues. The site has become a hotspot for "industrial-scale" fly tipping and has also had incidents of environmental damage.

To prevent access for vehicles but still allow entry for pedestrians and cyclists, new barriers have been installed on Deerdale Lane and Eakring Road by the Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Forestry England.

Despite the barriers being in place, the organisations are keen to ensure cyclists can continue using the nearby Sustrans Track and that visitors to local attractions like Sherwood Pines and Centre Parcs, as well as everyday walkers, can still use the road.

This action became necessary due to the area experiencing significant issues with waste being illegally dumped in the area. The district council has also created a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) specifically for the area, which will help preserve and protect the community, and promote responsible behaviour.

Councillor Paul Peacock, leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We are committed to stopping those who try to cut corners and flout the law when it comes to environmental offences such as fly tipping and rogue waste carriers.

"Sherwood Forest is known throughout the world and we want to do what we can to keep it well preserved and rubbish free for communities to enjoy. These extra measures in place will make it difficult for fly tipping to happen in this area again and we hope to see the recovery of flora and fauna that was once there.”

The PSPO was introduced after a review by the council, which included a two-stage public consultation with more than 500 responses from residents, businesses, partner agencies and wider groups. PSPOs are used to address specific issues, such as dog fouling, littering and anti-social behaviour in public spaces, and orders can include measures to restrict certain activities.

Anyone who violates a PSPO could be faced with a fine. Lizzie Hartshorne, recreation operations manager at Forestry England, added: “Forestry England supports the introduction of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) and the restriction of access to Eakring Road.

"This location has been a persistent problem area for fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour, including fires and the illegal use of off-road vehicles. These activities have often impacted our neighbouring Sherwood Pines, causing damage to the woodland and posing a risk to our visitors.

"We believe the PSPO will help reduce these issues and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.” Waste clearance will be ongoing at the site throughout the next year, as some areas are inaccessible due to poor ground conditions in the winter months, whilst other waste requires specialist removal.