Stepping beams, balance logs and boardwalks are among the works starting next month at Hope Coppice – the new woodland that is being created in remembrance of those affected by Covid-19.
Situated on land predominantly in Dickens Heath Parish between Blythe and Shirley South, Hope Coppice will be a place for people to remember and reflect on the pandemic.
Earlier in the year more than 800 trees were planted to create a woodland, a community orchard and cherry tree entrance.
This next stage, starting on 6 September, will see supporting work including the creation of board walks, woodchip paths, a specially designed arch way and nature play – such as balance logs and stepping beams.
These will all be created using locally sourced wood and will be in keeping with the local area. The work is expected to take ten weeks and will be managed by the council’s Planting Our Future Team, with contractors Copper Beach on site from 30 August.
Leader of Solihull Council, Cllr Ian Courts, said:
“During the pandemic, many of us found peace and quiet through our daily walks and a renewed appreciation of nature and its beauty.
“The creation of Hope Coppice will provide a new space for peace and contemplation and also further boost our support for nature and biodiversity in the borough.
“This latest stage of the project will ensure that people can move around and through the coppice in a range of ways, adding to our appreciation of this beautiful area.”
Access to the site will be via Woodloes Road with minimal disruption and residents of Woodloes Road, along with local community groups, will all be kept up to speed with the work involved.
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