Dorset Council Orders Urgent Replanting at Fleet Wood After Unlawful Tree Clearance

Dorset Council has formally ordered Weymouth Park Ltd to undertake immediate replanting at Fleet Wood in Chickerell, after more than half a hectare of woodland was illegally felled in January 2023. The land, which falls under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) confirmed in 1991, is part of a Section 41 Priority Habitat in the Dorset Natural Landscape and the heritage coast...

Image: Dorset Council

The Forestry Commission had granted permission to thin no more than 30% of the trees, yet investigations found that over 0.6 hectares were cleared entirely—significantly breaching the licence. The felling was carried out under the direction of individuals linked to Weymouth Park Ltd, leaving a notable ecological void in one of Dorset’s most valued habitats.

Record Fine Imposed But Replanting Responsibility Remains

In February 2025, Weymouth Magistrates’ Court issued a record £30,000 fine to Weymouth Park Ltd for breaching the terms of the felling licence. However, the enforcement of replanting within protected areas remains the remit of Dorset Council. The council has shared a replanting plan with the company, based on Forestry Commission guidelines, stipulating the planting of 1,100 trees per hectare.

The species list includes native and ecologically appropriate trees such as oak, beech, sycamore, wild cherry, and small-leaved lime—chosen to mirror the original biodiversity of Fleet Wood. The company has until the close of the planting season in March 2026 to complete the work or face further legal action.

Council Reaffirms Commitment to Dorset’s Natural Heritage

Cllr Shane Bartlett, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, reinforced the council’s dedication to restoring Fleet Wood:

“Fleet Wood is an irreplaceable part of Dorset’s natural heritage, and its restoration is essential. We expect Weymouth Park Ltd to meet their obligations and restore the woodland for the benefit of wildlife, the local community, and future generations. Dorset Council will take all necessary action to ensure compliance.”

This incident is part of a growing trend of councils across the UK confronting illegal tree felling. In 2024, similar action was taken in Greater Manchester and Northumberland, where developers were also held accountable for unauthorised clearance in protected areas. Conservation bodies have praised these crackdowns as critical for deterring future violations and preserving the UK’s dwindling natural habitats.

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