You will probably have noticed that there are some trees looking very sorry for themselves along the northern boundary of Little Meadow. In particular there is an oak tree where the lower branches have drooped and are nearly touching the ground. There are other similar-looking trees along that boundary too.
We believe that these changes have been brought about by the extremely hot and dry summer of 2026.
Knowle Wood is owned by Berkeley Homes (Southern) Ltd who bought it for £1.00 in April 2017. You may be aware that it is designated as “Ancient Woodland” and a Tree Preservation Order (“TPO”) covers the whole area, not just individual trees. Because of this we cannot just trim the offending branches without getting official permission. The Waverley Borough Council website is very clear about the need to apply to them before any cutting takes place, even where the trees in question are in somebody else’s ownership.
Initially we have made an approach to Berkeley Homes. To start with we have asked that they carry out an inspection; in fact we have suggested that they have all the trees in Knowle Wood re-inspected. This was last done in May 2024 and one of the recommendations in the last report was that re-inspections should be carried out if there are changes. This is all the more important now that pathways have been formed by members of the public walking through the woods, increasing any risk. If you’re interested you can see the 2024 inspection report here.
Finally, we will also ensure that Berkeley Homes are thinking about the conservation and preservation of the woodland to ensure that it’s not eventually lost. It has been suggested by a resident that they should contact Surrey Wildlife Trust and/or Woodland Trust.
We will keep you updated as things progress.