Mountpark Woodland – St Peters Wood, Swadlincote

Background

Mountpark, recognising the increasing focus of government policy on the environment, wanted to develop a project that would serve as a real-life case study. They aimed to provide independent and real-time learning outcomes to inform their own future projects and other partners. Guided by the expert team at Nicholsons, the Mountpark board explored opportunities and issues and ultimately purchased a 53-acre site of low-grade arable land in Swadlincote.

Objectives

The primary objective of the project was to create a publicly accessible multi-functional woodland that would contribute to woodland creation for carbon capture, biodiversity enhancement, and promote health and well-being. Mountpark aimed to plant 27,500 new trees and shrubs on the site, using a mix of native broadleaves like oak and cherry, as well as some conifers such as pine and Douglas fir for carbon sequestration and future timber production. The project also aimed to provide open public access across the site and establish a comprehensive network of access tracks and rides.

Photo credit: Theo Cohen https://theo.dphoto.com/ 

Design and Implementation

Nicholsons worked closely with Mountpark to design a truly multifunctional woodland. The site was planned to include a variety of woodland types and structures, incorporating parkland areas and allowing some areas to naturally colonize. A comprehensive network of rides was integrated into the design with key viewpoints highlighted.  Additionally, shrub and minor tree species were planted along rides and throughout the site.

To enhance biodiversity, the project included wet woodland and wetland scrapes, along with the introduction of diverse wildflowers, pollen and seed sources, and grassland habitats. Prior to planting, a comprehensive soil analysis was conducted to guide the planting design. The project commenced in spring 2022, with seeding, fencing, and planting carefully specified, tendered and supervised by the Nicholsons team. The establishment has been excellent and despite last summer’s extremely hot weather conditions, the survival rates were excellent, with less than 7% failures across the entire site.

Carbon Sequestration and Monitoring

Recognising the importance of carbon sequestration, Mountpark sought to understand the carbon opportunities offered by the new woodland. With the support of Nicholsons, the woodland is now registered on the Woodland Carbon Code. It is estimated to sequester approximately 4,850 tonnes of carbon over a 100-year growing period, with the potential for further carbon capture through soil improvements. Regular monitoring of the site’s performance and carbon capture will inform future projects.

Community Engagement

In addition to the functional aspects of woodland establishment, Mountpark aimed to add value to the local community. Through community events and interpretation signage they continue to ensure that the local community can feel real engagement and ownership of the site as it develops.  In conjunction with Nicholsons and the National Forest, further events are planned, including on site workshops with local schools.

Photo credit: Theo Cohen https://theo.dphoto.com/ 

Future Plans

Mountpark’s aim for St Peters Wood, Swadlincote is to serve as a guide for delivering the best possible outcomes in future woodland projects.

Overall, Mountpark’s project at St Peters Wood showcases their commitment to environmental sustainability, carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, and community engagement. It serves as a case study for their future projects and provides valuable insights for others interested in similar initiatives (https://mountpark.com/responsible-development/).