News
Stunning limestone pavements, ancient woodlands, intimate orchards and meadows and an impressive coastline make Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape one of England's finest landscapes. The work of the National Landscape Partnership aims to conserve and enhance this extraordinary place now and for the future.
Increase in timber thefts
April 26th, 2018
Woodland managers and conservation groups locally say a growing number of thefts of timber from local woodlands and roadsides is affecting them.
There have been a rising number of incidents reported of people illegally taking timber from woodlands at sites across the area, including from stacks of felled timber awaiting transportation.
This means local businesses and conservation groups are losing out on an important source of income. The money made from supplying firewood often pays for conservation work to be done so theft can have a direct impact on the landscape and wildlife of the area.
It is thought that many people think they are allowed to just help themselves to wood, without realising it is an offence. But taking timber from roadsides or woodland without permission is theft and people can be prosecuted for it. If you see anyone removing timber in suspicious circumstances, please contact the Police immediately.
There are of course legal and positive ways to get hold of timber without stealing it.
There are many local businesses who sell good quality locally sourced firewood. Buying directly from local businesses helps to support important conservation land management and the local economy.
Silverdale District Wood Bank is a local community group, supported by the AONB Partnership and other organisations, whose members carry out woodland management work and receive a small share of firewood in return. There’s currently a waiting list for membership but joining not only enables people to get firewood, but also to learn skills, meet new people and learn about our valuable local woodlands. The group also aims to help people in fuel poverty. For more information go to www.sdwoodbank.co.uk