For the past twelve months a working group made up of Lydney Town Council and West Dean Parish Council have been working in partnership with local and national bodies to successfully  find a way through the ancient woodland at Parkhill Enclosure and Norchard Wood.  Potential disturbance of these areas of Ancient Woodland had negatively impacted on the progress through planning.

At a joint meeting held on Monday 22^nd April both Councils gave their backing to the Working Group’s report outlining revisions to the route through these two areas of Ancient Woodland.  This report will enable the project  to kick start the planning application currently sitting with Forest of Dean District Council.  Both Councils agreed to the principle of the strategic link between Lydney and Parkend opening up the whole of the Forest with a safe, active travel route to all major towns.

Alison Bruce, the Chair of West Dean Parish Council praised the joint working group for their tenacity and perseverance in being able to bring a working plan to the table.  She also thanked the openness and cooperation of Forestry England, Natural England, The Woodland Trust and especially the management of Whitemead Holiday Park, who have allowed the revised route through their land.

Councillor Tasha Saunders, Mayor of Lydney, on behalf of Lydney Town Council, thanks the Working Group for their efforts in addressing past planning concerns and developing a project that aims to benefit residents and tourists.

Councillor Saunders further commented that “this partnership arrangement is welcomed, to enable both councils to achieve common goals and objectives in the development of the Forest of Dean Gateway.”

These changes will hopefully alleviate many of the concerns and issues of local residents whose properties would have been impacted by the original route.  The joint Working Group will now continue their work to finalise some outstanding technical requirements for planning.  The Group will be holding a series of public consultation events to explain the changes and future management of the project.

 Both Councils are looking forward to their continuing partnership bringing this much needed route to fruition; benefiting local residents and the Forest tourist industry.