eccelsall woods management plan.pdf - University of Sheffield

ECCLESALL WOODS 

GREEN FLAG AND GREEN 

HERITAGE AWARDS 

APPLICATION 2007 

Parks and Countryside, Sheffield City Council

CONTENTS 

• LIST OF ACTIONS BASED UPON JUDGES FEEDBACK IN 

2006 

• MANAGEMENT PLAN, INCORPORATING ADDITIONAL 

INFORMATION FOR GREEN HERITAGE APPLICATION – 

• APPENDICES 

0

LIST OF ACTIONS BASED UPON JUDGES FEEDBACK IN 2006 

Status - Pass 

Overall band score 70-74 

Desk Assessment Feedback 

Band score 20-24 

Criteria 

Ecclesall Woods 

Sheffield City Council 

Green Flag Award 2006/2007 

Strengths Recommendations 

Presentation Comprehensive document with 

much detailed information including 

detailed appendices. 

Health, Safety & 

Security 

Maintenance of 

equipment, 

buildings 

Detailed information relating to 

various procedures is contained 

with document. 

Management plan contains high 

level of detail of structures, 

boundaries and landscape with 

1 

This rather bulky document is not 

easy to reference in parts. Lack of 

page numbers does not help the 

reader access information. 

Action 

A new management plan has been 

prepared and a more streamlined 

approach taken. Page no’s are 

now included 

Plan does not make clear if 

aspects such as (e.g. anti-social 

behaviour, discarded syringes) are 

potential problems or if incidents of 

this kind have occurred and to 

what extent. 

Set out Health and Safety 

procedures for management of 

contractors on working on site. 

Action 

The types of anti-social behaviour 

mention are very rare. This now 

more explicit in the management 

plan. 

All contract documents relating to 

procurement of external 

contractors include associated 

health and safety procedures, risks 

assessments, etc. Examples will 

be made available for the 2007-08 

field visit 

Detailed proposals for future 

development and use of buildings 

should be prepared for inclusion in

& landscape 

Litter, cleanliness, 

vandalism 

Environmental 

Sustainability 

Conservation of 

heritage & nature 

Community 

Involvement 

detail of inspection regimes. future documents. 

Good operating procedures in place 

with good linkage to health and 

safety procedures where 

appropriate. 

Effective minimisation procedures in 

place through use of timber on site 

as fencing or habitat piles. Minimal 

reliance on bins/ collection with 

visitors encouraged to take litter 

home. 

Extensive and detailed information 

on the site is included within the 

management plan. Aims are clearly 

set out. 

Active and well-established Friends 

group are an asset to the site. 

Good usage as an educational 

resource with potential to develop 

this further. 

2 

Action 

The new site management plan 

includes the sawmill site, 

information on current use and 

proposals for improvements and 

the future. As further detailed 

master planning, etc for the 

sawmill site is completed, the 

management plan will be updated 

as necessary 

Plans to increase visitor numbers 

to areas of the site may require 

specific consideration of this 

aspect. 

Action 

Agreed. The on-going master 

planning and feasibility work for 

the sawmill site, and its links to the 

surrounding woodland, will 

consider this and associated 

recommendations 

See comments above regarding 

need to consider potential impact 

of increased visitor numbers. 

Action 

As above 

Field assessment revealed 

increasing use for organised active 

leisure. Management plan should 

reflect such usage and any 

aspirations to further develop this. 

Friends group have been pivotal in 

protecting site and management 

plan should consider how this 

group might be encouraged 

sustained over long term. 

Action 

The new management plan 

includes comprehensive 

assessment of the current 

recreational facilities, site usage, 

perceptions, etc, and considers 

action to maintain and improve

Marketing Strategy 

Overall 

management 

Promotion of the site is carefully 

balanced and conducted through 

various media including the 

Sheffield City Council website. 

Comprehensive management 

systems in place supported by 

detailed recording of flora, fauna 

and landscape features. Active 

involvement of “Friends” is pivotal to 

the successful protection, 

maintenance and promotion of the 

site. 

3 

provision as appropriate. The 

aspirations of the sawmill site have 

been developed following a 

detailed consultation process, and 

the new management plan sets out 

the broad process to achieve the 

vision 

The Friends of Groups (especially 

the Friends of Ecclesall Woods) 

are supported in many different 

ways by the City Council, and have 

a stable membership. Parks and 

Countryside will continue to 

support these and other 

stakeholder groups wherever 

possible. Furthermore, the sawmill 

site offers a new opportunity to 

provide a setting for events and 

activities run by groups, a store for 

tools and materials, publicity 

through the new shop/gallery, etc 

Plan does not identify who is using 

the site or equally who is not using 

it and why. This is key to 

successful marketing and to 

identifying any barriers that may 

exist to using the site. Information 

should be gathered on users to 

enable understanding of age, 

gender, ethnicity, catchment, 

means of travel, purpose, duration, 

time / season of visit etc. 

Action 

A new visitor survey was 

undertaken in autumn 2006, and a 

number of issues and 

recommendations identified. 

Please refer to new management 

plan 

Carefully consider the likely impact 

of the proposed increased use of 

areas the site. 

Address marketing information 

deficit and use data to help 

safeguard future of site and ensure 

continued sympathetic public use. 

Action 

Please refer to the actions outlined 

above

Field Assessment Feedback 

Band score 50-54 

Criteria Strengths Recommendations 

A Welcoming Place Management of the site supports 

a strong sense of welcome at a 

variety of levels. Paths, 

bridleways and glades are well 

managed with a feeling of 

openness that encourages a 

sense of personal safety. The 

entire area was virtually litter free 

and there was little evidence of 

misuse, vandalism, neglect or 

erosion. Signage was good 

without being intrusive. 

Healthy, Safe 

and Secure 

Clean and 

Well Maintained 

Footpaths and other routes well 

maintained. 

The site scored highly in this area 

overall with high standards of 

woodland maintenance and visitor 

access evident. 

However timer yard site needs 

considerably work in order to 

match the high standards 

achieved elsewhere on the site. 

4 

Include an emergency contact 

number on signs, leaflets and other 

information. 

Improve / replace toilet facilities. 

Action 

Emergency contact information will 

be added to interpretative panels 

and notice boards by Spring 2007. 

The leaflets will be improved to 

include emergency contact details 

as they are re-printed or replaced. 

The original toilets are for 

staff/tenant use only. A new 

disabled toilet is now present within 

the sawmill site for public use, 

although these facilities are not 

open at all times 

Toilet facilities at timber yard leave 

much to be desired and need 

improvement if visitors’ needs are 

to be properly served. 

Devise and implement 

development and improvement 

plan for timber yard area. 

Action 

As stated above, disabled toilet 

facilities are now available for 

public use 

The new management plan sets 

out a programme of improvements 

to the sawmill site, whilst 

associated master-planning and 

further feasibility work will look at 

these issues in further detail 

Devise plans to limit impact of 

parking and vehicular access to 

timber yard site. 

Action 

Please see comments above

Sustainability 

Conservation 

and Heritage 

High standards in evidence 

throughout with no areas of 

concern apparent. Proposals to 

develop timber yard site offer 

exciting prospect of sustainable 

and productive utilisation of site in 

balance with conservation and 

access objectives. 

One aspect for concern relates to 

access to the timber yard and 

particularly car parking. There is 

significant and obvious potential 

for tension between the 

development and business 

objectives of timber yard site 

which will require easy access for 

an expanded number of 

customers / visitors and the 

objectives of protecting the natural 

environment and heritage of the 

site. 

Largely covered in previous 

section. Excellent work of staff 

and volunteers in identifying and 

mapping industrial archaeology is 

noted. 

Restricted access to areas of the 

site provides undisturbed habitat. 

5 

Action 

Agreed. The new management 

plan addresses these issues to a 

point. The on-going master 

planning process and related 

feasibility work will further refine 

medium to long term 

solutions/approaches 

Continue to involve and support 

the Friends group and others. 

Consider succession planning 

within Friends and other active 

groups in order to avoid drop in 

support if one or two key stalwarts 

become unavailable due to age or 

other commitments. 

Action 

Please refer to comments above. It 

is hoped that as it is regenerated, 

the sawmill site and related 

education and interpretative 

programmes here and in the wider 

woodland, etc will help in raising 

the profile of the group and attract 

new members. For example, the 

group is now able to advertise its 

activities through the shop/gallery 

sometimes reaching a different 

audience than the more regular 

visitors to the woodland; the new 

Flora of the woods, developed by 

the Friends of Ecclesall Woods is 

available for sale in the shop.

Community 

Involvement 

Marketing 

Management 

There is an active Friends group 

with along established association 

with the site. There is evidence 

that the group has provided 

valuable input at operational level 

through mapping, recording and 

active conservation management 

tasks together with evidence that 

Friends have played a strategic 

role in securing the future of the 

site over many years. Indeed 

evidence suggests that were it not 

for earlier activity of the Friends 

the site may have been lost for 

alternative use many years ago. 

A difficult site to market in some 

respects due to largely informal 

nature of site and use although 

some valuable promotion work 

noted. 

Strong evidence of positive 

proactive management of the site 

by committed team of staff and 

volunteers. 

6 

Analyse and better understand use 

of site, who uses it, when, why, for 

how long, how they travel and from 

where? etc. Also examine which 

groups (age, gender, ethnicity, etc) 

do not use the site and explore any 

barriers to doing so. Explore 

strategies to ensure access for all. 

Action 

Please see comments above 

Ensure plans look sufficiently far 

ahead and incorporate need to 

retain, renew and refresh 

community involvement. 

Action 

Agreed and included in new 

management plan 

Include an emergency contact 

number on signs, leaflets and other 

information. 

Improve / replace toilet facilities. 

Action 

See comments above 

Overall comments Development of timber yard site offers great potential to develop living 

heritage and secure woodland future through productive use. Whilst 

this has the potential to develop as a very valuable resource at many 

levels (including significant potential for educational use) there is a risk 

that the proposals could become victims of own success. For example if 

the number of visitors, particularly car borne visitors is allowed to 

develop beyond the capacity of the site to accommodate this then it 

could ultimately prove to be detrimental to the site overall. 

The work of staff and volunteers is reflected in the high standard of 

the site overall. These high standards do credit to all concerned. 

Ensure careful balance between desire to develop timber yard site as 

commercial and educational resource and the overall conservation 

needs of the site. Particular attention should be given to the potential 

difficulties of increased vehicular traffic and parking at the timber yard 

site.

ECCLESALL WOODS 

MANAGEMENT PLAN 

2007-2011 

7

Parks and Countryside 

CONTENTS PAGE PAGE No. 

FOREWORD 11 

SECTION 1: SITE DESCRIPTION AND EVALUATION 12 

1.1 Setting the Scene 12 

1.1.1 Site Statistics 12 

1.1.2 General introduction to the site 12 

1.1.3 Brief compartment descriptions 13 

1.1.4 Management Structure for the site 15 

1.1.5 Relevant Strategies and Policies 15 

1.1.6 Statutory designations and constraints 17 

1.1.7 Byelaws 18 

1.1.8 Leases, wayleaves and covenants 18 

1.2 Cultural Value 19 

1.2.1 Land use history 19 

1.2.2 Archaeology 23 

1.2.3 Landscape value 24 

1.2.4 Buildings and other facilities 25 

1.2.5 Use of the site 26 

1.2.6 Community involvement 27 

1.3 Environmental Value 32 

1.3.1 Physical 32 

1.3.2 Biodiversity 34 

1.3.3 Silvicultural assessment, evaluation and management options 39 

1.4 Health and Safety 43 

1.5 Sustainability 45 

8

1.6 Marketing 46 

SECTION 2: VISION 49 

SECTION 3: MANAGEMENT AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 49 

3.1 Aims and objectives of management 49 

SECTION 4: MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION 58 

4.1 Annual maintenance work programme (Years 1-5) 58 

4.2 Annual management work programme (Years 1-5) 60 

4.3 Recurring annual management tasks 67 

SECTION 5: FINANCIAL STATEMENT 68 

5.1 Financial forecast 2007-2011 68 

5.2 Current and future sources of funding 69 

SECTION 6: RESEARCH, MONITORING AND REVIEW 72 

6.1 Research 72 

6.2 Monitoring 72 

6.3 Review 73 

9

APPENDICES 

Appendix 1 Detailed Compartment Descriptions (P2 –8) 

Appendix 2 Byelaws covering Ecclesall Woods (P9) 

Appendix 3 Flora and Fauna Species Lists (P10 – 35) 

Appendix 4 Events Policy (P36) 

Appendix 5A DEL Health and Safety Policy (P37) 

Appendix 5B Customer Enquiry System (P38) 

Appendix 5C Procedure for dealing with anti-social behaviour (P43) 

Appendix 5D PC Safe System of Work for removal of needles and syringes (P45) 

Appendix 6A SCC Environmental Policy (P47) 

Appendix 6B EMAS (P49) 

Appendix 6C PC Pesticide Policy (P50) 

Appendix 6D SCC Policy on the Use of Peat (P53) 

Appendix 7 SCC Corporate Code of Conduct (P55) 

Appendix 8A 2006 visitor questionnaire (P56) 

Appendix 8B 2006 visitor questionnaire technical appendices 

Appendix 9 Chronology of Ecclesall Woods (P57) 

Appendix 10 Bibliography (P60) 

LIST OF FIGURES 

Figure 1.1a Site location within Sheffield 

Figure 1.1b Site location within Millhouses 

Figure 1.2 Compartment map 

Figure 1.3 Management Structure 

Figure 1.4 Services 

Figure 1.5 1770 division of Ecclesall Woods 

Figure 1.6 1850’s Ordnance Survey of the area 

Figure 1.7 Key areas and features of archaeological interest 

Figure 1.8 Ecclesall Woods sawmill site layout plan 

Figure 1.9 Access points 

Figure 1.10 Definitive rights of way and other recognised routes 

Figure 1.11 Outline vision for Ecclesall Woods sawmill site 

Figure 1.12 Hydrology 

Figure 1.13 Underlying Geology 

Figure 1.14 Main vegetation communities 

Figure 4.1 Proposed major management works, 2007-2011 

10

FOREWORD 

Previous plans 

The site is owned by Sheffield City Council and is managed by the Parks and Countryside 

Service. This management plan has been developed after a review of the previous 

management plan covering the period 2000-2006, and related public and other 

stakeholder consultation. 

Purpose and presentation of the Management 

The purpose of this Plan is: 

• To provide a general introduction to the site and its different interests, values and 

benefits 

• To deliver the site aims and objectives that are informed by the above 

• To monitor improvements to site management & customer service in accordance with 

the Green Flag criteria 

It is a dynamic document that guides Parks and Countryside and all those involved in 

achieving the vision for the site. 

Those involved in preparing this plan 

The production of this plan has involved considerable consultation with key stakeholders, 

particularly the site users, the Friends of Ecclesall Woods and Dore Village Society and 

Parks and Countryside personnel involved in the site’s management and maintenance. 

The plan was prepared by Parks and Countryside. 

Member/Senior Officer Supporting Statement 

Sheffield has developed a well-established infrastructure of Area Panels, engaging all of 

the city's 84 Councillors in 12 corporate areas. The Panels are an integral part of the 

Council's political management structure and are at the heart of the Council’s aim to 

create a network of quality green spaces throughout the city. 

Parks and Countryside Area Action Plans have been developed by each of the city’s 12 

Area Panels, and each Panel has identified the priority themes and green space sites in 

their area for development and regeneration when opportunities arise. 

Ecclesall Woods is a priority site within the south west local area action plan. Further 

information and downloads are available on our website at: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/all-about-us/areaaction-plans/south-west-area-action-plan 

11

SECTION 1: SITE DESCRIPTION AND EVALUATION 

1.1 Setting the Scene 

1.1.1 Site Statistics 

Name of Site ECCLESALL WOODS 

Address Abbey Lane, Millhouses, Sheffield 

Location 5 km south-west of Sheffield city centre 

Grid ref SK 323 825 

Size of whole site 139.9 hectares (ha) 

Site Owner Sheffield City Council 

Site Management Parks and Countryside, Development Environment and Leisure 

Directorate 

Designations (a) Local Nature Reserve 

(b) Two Grade II structures – Ryecroft bridge and Wood 

collier’s memorial 

(c) Scheduled Monument – prehistoric cup and ring stone 

(d) Tree Preservation Order covers the woodland and tree 

groups within Ecclesall Woods sawmill site 

(e) 15 km of dedicated public rights of way 

(f) The whole site is designated as Green Belt within the 

Sheffield Unitary Development Plan 

(g) Parks and Countryside listed as a City Site and a Heritage 

Site 

(h) The great majority of the site is ancient woodland 

1.1.2 General introduction to the site 

Ecclesall Woods is the premier public and largest ancient semi-natural woodland in 

South Yorkshire, and the “jewel in the crown” within the City Council’s 1500 hectare 

woodland estate. 

It is situated within the southwest of the City, between the suburbs of Millhouses 

and Dore village, some 5 km from the City centre, and attracts around 300-400,000 

visits per annum. Visitors come from across the City and adjoining areas. Refer to 

Figures 1.1a and 1.1b. 

It is of major archaeological and historical interest, including features from pre- 

history through to the Middle Ages, with very extensive evidence of traditional 

woodland management and associated industries. The South Yorkshire 

Archaeology Service considers the site one of the most important woodlands in the 

County. 

As a Local Nature Reserve the woodland is of city wide value for nature 

conservation, supporting several UK Biodiversity Action plan priority species, for 

example song thrush and white clawed crayfish, and priority habitats such as wet 

woodland. 

Within the woodland, adjacent to Abbey Lane, is situated what was once a working 

sawmill site with ancillary facilities. This area is currently at the early stage of 

regeneration to provide additional visitor facilities, a retail outlet for local wood 

12

products and services, a base for education, interpretation and training 

programmes linked to the woodland and its heritage, and a location for several 

community based tree planting and environmental education organisations, and 

wood-based businesses, who work in partnership with the City Council. Master 

planning, to move the vision forward for this site, will start in 2007. 

Freeman College (Ruskin Mill Educational Trust) licence a small part of the 

woodland as a setting for their traditional woodland skills curriculum. 

The site is divided into three main blocks by Whirlowdale Road (B6375) and Abbey 

Lane (B6068). For management purposes this division is used to refer to the 

woodland as three main blocks: Wood 1, north of Whirlowdale Road, extending to 

Parkhead; Wood 2, south of Whirlowdale Road and bounded to the west by Abbey 

Lane; and Wood 3, lying between Dore and Abbey Lane. 

1.1.3 Brief compartment descriptions 

Ecclesall Woods is split into 3 main management compartments, reflecting its 

division by bisecting highways, and its entry in the Forestry Commission’s 

Woodland Grant Scheme (Wood 1 is represented as Compartment 115; 

Wood 2 as Compartment 114; and Wood 3, including the sawmill site, as 

Compartment 116). These in turn are broken into sub-compartments on the 

basis of dominant tree species, woodland age structure and the presence of 

other facilities or habitats. Please refer to Figure 1.2. 

The sub-compartments are summarised below: 

Sub-Compartment Area 

(hectares) 

Planting 

Year 

13 

Dominant 

Species 

Other 

facilities / 

habitats 

114a 15.3 Pre-1900 Oak/Birch 

114b 6.4 Pre-1900 Beech 

114c 2.9 Pre-1900 Oak/Birch 

115a 24.0 Pre-1900 Oak/Birch/ 

SChestnut 

115b 0.6 Pre-1900 Beech 

115c 6.7 Pre-1900 SY/MB 

115d 0.6 Mixed MB Coppice 

115e 1.4 60-70 MB 

115f 3.1 Pre-1900 Mixed 

116a 3.7 60-70 Mixed Includes 

picnic area 

116b 0.8 Pre-1900 MB 

116c 1.6 60-70 Mixed 

116d 17.0 Pre-1900 MB Bird 

Sanctuary 

116e 1.2 60-70 Mixed Sawmill 

Site 

116f 34.2 Pre-1900 Oak 

116g 3.2 Pre-1900 Beech 

116h 1.1 meadow 

116i 0.7 70-80 MB 

116j 2.6 Pre-1900 MB

Sub-Compartment Area 

(hectares) 

Planting 

Year 

14 

Dominant 

Species 

Other 

facilities / 

habitats 

116k 9.1 Pre-1900 Mixed 

116L 0.7 40-60 MB Ryecroft 

mill site 

116m 3.0 40-60 SY 

TOTAL 139.9 

SY – Sycamore 

MB – Mixed Broadleaves 

Mixed – mixture of conifers (mainly Scots Pine and European Larch) and 

broadleaves (Oak, S Chestnut, Sycamore generally) 

Detailed compartment descriptions are provided in Appendix 1. 

1.1.4 Management Structure for the site 

Ecclesall Woods is managed by Parks and Countryside (P and C), part of the 

Directorate of Development, Environment and Leisure (DEL) within Sheffield City 

Council. 

Within P and C, management of the site is overseen by the Trees and Woodlands 

Section with input from other Sections of the Service, the wider Council and 

external partners and stakeholders. Refer to Figure 1.3. 

Day to day management of the site is co-ordinated principally through the 

Woodlands Manager (focusing on strategic, project and budget management), with 

input from one of the Community Tree Officer (responsible for responding to day to 

day enquiries, for example, tree nuisance issues) and one of the Woodlands 

Project Officer (focusing on education and interpretative projects and initiatives). In 

addition, a specific Woodlands Project Officer leads the on-going regeneration of 

the sawmill site. 

The Southern Ranger Team within P and C undertake a wide range of small-scale 

practical site management and maintenance projects within the site under the 

direction of the Trees and Woodlands Section, as well as delivering a annual 

programme of events and interpretative and educational activities on site. 

On behalf of Parks and Countryside, the car park at the Limb Lane entrance is 

maintained by Street Force, a parallel Service within DEL. In addition, the formal 

parking bays alongside Abbey Lane are also managed and maintained by Street 

Force. The majority of the highway verges around the site are the responsibility of 

Highway Services. The public rights of way within the site are the responsibility of 

the Public Rights of Way Section, Highway Services. However, as the client 

Service, Parks and Countryside undertake most of maintenance of the rights of way 

network. Street Force’s specialist arboricultural team undertake emergency tree 

maintenance work within the site. 

Other parts of DEL and other Directorates within the Council are involved in the 

care and management of the woodland as required, particularly the South 

Yorkshire Archaeology Service based with Development Services, who provide 

advice on archaeological issues.

The Friends of Ecclesall Woods are the primary grassroots community group 

associated with the site. Other key stakeholder groups include the Dore Village 

Society, Sheffield Hallam University, Freeman College (Ruskin Mill Educational 

Trust), Working Woodlands Ltd and the South Yorkshire Forest Partnership. 

A number of businesses are based at the sawmill site, through tenancy’s at will. 

These are Handspring Design, Hector and Cedric Ltd, Tinsley Tree Project, 

Sustainable Business Supplies, Lorraine Botterill and Leah Torp-Neilson, and 

Working Woodlands Ltd. 

Further information on some of the above stakeholders can be found at the 

following web-links: 

http://www.dorevillage.co.uk/ 

http://www.syforest.co.uk/ 

http://www.ruskin-mill.org.uk/ 

http://www.workingwoodlands.info/ 

http://www.workingwoodlandsproducts.co.uk/ 

http://www.handspringdesign.co.uk/ 

1.1.5 Relevant Strategies and Policies 

Site Categorisation Strategy (2000) 

The Site Categorisation Strategy for Sheffield’s parks and green spaces identifies 

Ecclesall Woods as a City Site. 

City Sites play a major role in making Sheffield a City to be proud of, consistent with 

meeting the needs of the residents of Sheffield, and contribute to the quality of 

visitor’s experience of the City. 

Further information regarding this strategy and its methodology, can be found on 

our website: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/all-aboutus/site-categorisation-strategy 

Sheffield’s Parks Regeneration Strategy (1999) 

Sheffield’s Parks Regeneration Strategy is the long-term plan for the regeneration 

of Sheffield's green space. The strategy aims to continuously improve the 

management of green space for people, wildlife and heritage by: 

• working in partnership with others 

• supporting communities to become actively involved with the management of their 

green spaces and assisting us in determining standards 

• making the best use of existing resources 

• securing additional resources to improve services 

15

Further information regarding this strategy can be found on our Website: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/all-aboutus/parks-regeneration-strategy 

The Strategy is currently under review in preparation for a Sheffield Green and 

Open Spaces Strategy, planned for completion in 2008. 

Tree and Woodland Strategy (2001) 

Although currently under review, this provides specific policies relating to the overall 

strategic vision and management of the Sheffield’s tree and woodland resource. 

Further information regarding this strategy can be found on our Website: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/trees-woodlands 

Sheffield Environment Strategy (2003) 

In 2001, the City Council set up a Local Strategic Partnership, with responsibility for 

ensuring that the social, economic and environmental well being of the city is 

delivered in an integrated way. The Sheffield First for Environment partnership 

produced an environmental strategy for the city, in 2003, which sets out a vision of 

what the city wants to achieve, based on community involvement and covers six 

key challenges. This strategy is currently under review and consultation. A new 

strategy will be produced during 2007. A copy of the present strategy can be found 

at: 

http://www.sheffieldfirst.net/our-partnerships/sheffield-environment-partnership/keydocuments 

Local Agenda 21(1998) 

In 2001 the City Council set up a Local Strategic Partnership, with responsibility for 

ensuring that the social, economic and environmental well being of the city is 

delivered in an integrated way. The Sheffield First for Environment partnership have 

now produced a final draft environmental strategy for the city which sets out a 

vision of what the city wants to achieve, based on community involvement. 

Unitary Development Plan 

This document guides future planning and developments across the city. 

It is currently being reviewed and a new Sheffield Development Framework will be 

produced by 2007 

Further details are available via the Development Services website: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/in-your-area/planning-and-city-development/planningdocuments 

City Strategy 2005-2010 

Led by the Sheffield First Partnership, this strategy has several main aims 

16

• To provide a framework for Sheffield’s continued transformation during 2005-2010, 

and a vision for the future 

• To identify and address the key issues facing Sheffield 

• To present a united view to government and the European Union in attracting the 

support and resources to do what needs to be done. 

Further detail is available at: 

http://www.sheffieldfirst.net/sheffield-city-strategy 

Other important City Council, regional and national policy strategies have also 

informed the development of the plan: 

• Sheffield Nature Conservation Strategy (Sheffield City Council, 1991) 

• UK Biodiversity Action Plan (HMSO, 1995) 

• Coal Measures Natural Area Profile (English Nature, 1997) 

• UK Forestry Standard: The Government’s Approach to Sustainable Forestry 

(Forestry Commission, 1998) 

• England Forestry Strategy (Forestry Commission, 1999) 

• Sheffield Countryside Strategy (Sheffield City Council, 1999) 

• Sheffield Local Biodiversity Action Plan (Sheffield Biodiversity Steering Group, 

2001) 

• Working with the grain of nature: A biodiversity strategy for England (DEFRA, 2002) 

• Sheffield Cultural Strategy (Sheffield City Council, 2005) 

• The value of Trees in our Changing Region: The Regional Forestry Strategy for 

Yorkshire and The Humber Region (Forestry Commission, 2005) 

• Natural England Strategic Direction 2006-2009 (Natural England, 2006) 

1.1.6 Statutory designations and other constraints 

• Ecclesall Woods and the sawmill site are designated Green Belt 

• The majority of the site (with the exception of the sawmill site) is a Local Nature 

Reserve, and most of the site is classed as an Area of Natural History Interest as 

defined by the Sheffield Unitary Development Plan. 

• One archaeological monument has Scheduled Monument status, the 

prehistoric cup and ring stone (SAM number 29932) in Wood 1. 

There are two Grade II Listed Buildings within the site – a stone bridge 

over the Ryecroft Brook in Wood 3, and the wood collier’s memorial in 

Wood 2. 

• A Tree Preservation Order (808/338) covers the small woodlands and tree groups 

within the sawmill site 

• The site is crossed by 15km of public rights of way, including six public footpaths 

(nos. 244, 247, 248, 249, 281, 282 and 283) in Wood 1; two public footpaths (nos. 

250 and 252) and two public bridleways (nos. 240 and 241) in Wood 2; and five 

public footpaths (nos. 253 254, 255, 256 and 466) and three public bridleways (nos. 

245, 246 and 252) in Wood 3. A number of other routes are managed as de facto 

definitive routes 

• The majority of the site is included within the Nature Conservancy Council 

17

Ancient Woodland Inventory (1986). Square Plantation and much of the 

woodland on the Dore side of the Limb Brook dates from the nineteenth 

century onwards and is not ancient 

• 17 hectares of Wood 3 is designated as a bird sanctuary, but also forms a general 

wildlife sanctuary where public access is not encouraged and a minimal 

intervention approach is taken 

• The site falls within the Coal Measures Natural Area as defined by English Nature 

(1996) and the Countryside Commission's Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe 

Character Area (1998) 

• The site is included on Natural England’s Invertebrate Site Register 

• The site also forms part of the Sheffield Round Walk, a circular route covering 

various parks, woodlands and other open spaces in west Sheffield 

1.1.7 Byelaws 

Ecclesall Woods is covered by the SCC byelaws, which cover many of Sheffield’s 

parks and open spaces. The existing byelaws were made in 1966 (amended in 

1971) and relate to the powers in the Public Health Act 1875 and Open Spaces Act 

1906. A variety of powers do exist to protect the public and the environment from 

possible conflicts of interest, misuse and abuse. The byelaws cover such things as 

vehicular use, cycling, ball games, events, picking flowers and many others. It is 

widely recognised that some of the existing byelaws are now irrelevant in today's 

society and consequently some byelaws are no longer enforced. However, 

overhauling the existing byelaws is a considerable and expensive legal task and 

until such a time that the relevant byelaws are fully reviewed and amended the 

existing powers remain in place and are enforced as and when appropriate. 

A copy of the byelaws can be found on our website at: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/all-aboutus/byelaws 

1.1.8 Leases, wayleaves and covenants 

Tenancy at wills 

Tenancy’s at will’s cover six businesses based at the sawmill: 

• Handspring Design Ltd 

• Hector and Cedric Ltd 

• Sustainable Building Supplies Ltd 

• Tinsley Tree Project 

• Working Woodlands Ltd 

• Lorraine Botterill and Leah Torp-Neilson 

Wayleaves 

A Yorkshire Water main sewer passes through the site from Whirlow Park 

Road, through the sawmill site, and onto Abbey Lane, whilst another skirts the 

southern edge of Whirlowdale Road along the woodland boundary. The 

18

idleway from Limb Lane is followed by a main sewer, which then runs south 

down the bridleway adjoining the Limb Brook all the way to Abbeydale Road 

South. 

A Yorkshire Electricity sub-station is present at the north-western entrance 

from Abbey Lane (SK 319835) in Wood 1, with links to the main network on 

Abbey Lane. A British Gas sub-station is present off Abbey Lane (SK 

322837) in Wood 3 with various links to the main network on Abbey Lane. A 

British Gas pipeline skirts the south-western boundary of Wood 3. Refer to 

Figure 1.4. 

Covenants 

The following conditions are taken from the purchase deeds (No. 3692 Ecclesall 

Woods). 

• Free passage and drainage for water and soil coming from any property of the 

vendor (Fitzwilliam-Wentworth estate) adjoining or near to the lands sold. 

• Without the written consent of the vendor, not to use the lands for any purpose 

other than for new streets, street improvement works, public parks, pleasure 

grounds, sports grounds and open spaces. 

• Without the written consent of the vendor, not to erect any buildings except public 

buildings, park keepers and gate keepers houses, conveniences, and pavilions, etc 

connected with sport and the use of lands as stated above. 

• To erect and maintain all the boundaries where they adjoin other property of the 

vendor. 

19

1.2 Cultural Value 

1.2.1 Land use history (a summarised chronology is available in Appendix 9) 

The early history of the area is unclear, but archaeological evidence strongly 

suggests that by at least the Romano-British period, the area now known as 

Ecclesall Woods was predominantly agricultural, with woodland perhaps restricted 

to wetter ground and streams sides. At some time later, perhaps in the Dark Ages, 

the agricultural land was abandoned and reverted to woodland (Rotherham, 2006), 

and by the time of the Domesday Survey, 1086, the local area was dominated by 

wood-pasture like much of the Sheffield and Rotherham area (Jones 1993). 

The Limb Brook in Wood 3 historically formed the boundary between the Anglo- 

Saxon kingdoms of Mercia and Northumberland, and later Derbyshire and 

Yorkshire. 

The post-Domesday history of Ecclesall Woods is uncertain, but it was part of the 

manor of the de Ecclesall family by the fourteenth century. In 1317, Robert de 

Ecclesall was granted a licence to impark and Ecclesall Woods may have been part 

of this park. Certainly, adjoining place names like Park Head, at the northern point 

of the woods amongst others, suggest the location of a Park on the northern limits 

of the site. In the eighteenth century one of the compartments within the site was 

named as Warren Wood (rabbit warrens were often created in deer parks), and in 

the seventeenth and eighteenth century there were two launds on the western side 

of the woodland and one within the south of the wood, laund being a name for a 

clearing or pasture within a woodland. 

By at least 1587, Ecclesall Woods was under coppice with standards management 

(Jones 1993), used to provide the raw materials to make a great variety of 

products, particularly charcoal for iron smelting, and “whitecoal” as a fuel in lead 

smelting. The woods were acquired in the early seventeenth century by the Bright 

family, passing to the Rockingham family in 1752. From then until the early 

nineteenth century the woodland continued to be managed as coppice with 

standards. The eighteenth century records show coppice cycles varying from 14 - 

43 years; the longer cycles suggesting that Oak timber for building projects was 

important, with Oak underwood providing pit timber, and bark for use in tanning 

leather (Jones and Walker, 1997). The woodland continued to be let as herbage 

(agistment) into the eighteenth century. 

In the seventeenth and eighteenth century Ecclesall Woods comprised separate, 

named woods that changed gradually over the centuries. Refer to Figure 1.5. 

From the early nineteenth century, the woodland was gradually transformed into a 

high forest as coppice management was abandoned. Introduced species, 

particularly Sweet Chestnut and Beech were planted extensively (from 1824 until 

1899), as well as Scots Pine, European Larch, and Sycamore, amongst others. 

Figure 1.6 depicts the woodland extent in the 1850s. 

The planting actively reflects the gradual transition from coppice-with-standards to 

high forest management (Jones and Walker 1997), when it is suggested that three 

processes were taking place simultaneously: 

• Planting of gaps at the end of the coppice cycle with both conifers and broadleaves; 

• Natural regeneration; 

20

• Storing of coppice. 

'Falls' of wood from coppice management stopped after 1859. In 1848, the first 

timber sale was recorded, and from 1853 until 1900-01 took place almost 

continuously. After this, active timber management ceased until very recently. 

In 1920, Whirlowdale Road was cut through the eastern half of the site, and 

proposals were prepared to develop most of the site for residential homes. 

However, in 1927, Ecclesall Woods was purchased from the Earl Fitzwilliam for 

£45,000; £10,000 coming from Alderman Graves, and the remainder from the City 

Corporation (Deed no 3692). The site was officially opened as a public open space 

by Her Royal Highness Princess Mary on 23rd August 1928. In 1929, an area of 

17 hectares was reserved as a bird sanctuary, maintained to the present day. 

Ryecroft Glen was gifted by J G Graves to the Council in 1937. 

During the twentieth century the woodland has become almost surrounded by 

urban development, with the exception of areas opposite Limb Lane (Whirlow 

playing field), and significant areas of the post-medieval woodland have been lost 

particularly along the north-eastern boundary. 

The major storm damage in 1962 led to the development of Ecclesall Woods 

Sawmill. 

1.2.2 Archaeology 

Ecclesall Woods contains a tremendous wealth of archaeological features with over 

1000 individual features recorded. 

This is includes small number of pre medieval sites and exceptional coverage of 

medieval to post medieval features mainly associated with woodland use and 

management. As such the woods are considered a regionally to nationally 

important archaeological landscape not only because of the number, range and 

density of features, but also because of the associations between them and the 

related documentary record. Figure 1.7 depicts the key areas and features of 

interest. In addition, a GIS database of all the archaeological features recorded 

from the site was developed in 2001, with the help of Sheffield Hallam University 

and is held by the South Yorkshire Archaeology Service (SYAS) as part of the 

County Sites and Monuments Register (SMR). (An example will be brought along 

for inspection during the GF/GH field visit, as advised by the Civic Trust). 

Archaeological fieldwork since the early 1990’s has greatly contributed to the 

knowledge base for the site, and this was collated and analysed in 2001 

(Bevan). The Friends of Ecclesall Woods have undertaken considerable 

survey work since 2003, through two concurrent Local Heritage Initiative grants. 

The City Council is advised by the South Yorkshire Archaeology Service on all 

aspects of archaeology and regularly consults with them in relation to management 

proposals, interpretation, specific survey work, etc. 

Sites with Statutory Protection 

A prehistoric cup and ring-marked stone in Wood 1 (at SK 326831) is a Scheduled 

Monument, and is dated to the late Neolithic or Bronze Age periods (2800-500 BC). 

It is the first prehistoric carving to be discovered in the eastern foothills of the South 

21

Pennines, and is therefore very rare. A 2m boundary around the feature is also 

protected (English Heritage, 1998). Whilst a public footpath runs close to the 

feature it has fallen into disuse and has not been actively promoted at the request 

of the SYAS. 

A stone bridge over the Ryecroft Brook (Wood 3), and a charcoal burner’s memorial 

stone dated 1786 (Wood 2) are Grade II Listed Buildings, and as such can be 

considered of regional importance. 

All three features are in reasonable to good condition, are monitored regularly, and 

action taken as necessary. No specific change in current management practices is 

required. 

Other Sites 

There are potentially other sites within the wood of national significance (Bevan, 

2001) utilising the criteria for scheduling ancient monuments (Policy Planning 

Guidance Note PPG16: Archaeology and Planning DoE 1990): 

• A hill-top enclosure on the north-western edge of the bird sanctuary, which is 

considered to be Iron Age or Romano-British in origin (ASE, 2002) 

• An extensive nearby irregular field system within the bird sanctuary dated to the 

same period (ASE, 2002) 

Two known mill sites, Ryecroft Mill and dam, and Whirlow Wheel, provide 

examples of the local exploitation of water-power and through their 

associations with lead smelting and grinding are particularly illustrative of 

local industries. The surviving remains of the mills themselves and their 

associated water features can be considered to be of regional importance. 

In addition, a bank and ditch traced alongside the Limb Brook, if a remnant of the 

medieval deer park boundary, could be considered of regional importance. 

Other sites identified are mostly Q or whitecoal pits (over 100 in number) and 

charcoal hearths (over 200 in number), extractive sites or sites associated 

with stone quarrying, coal extraction and linear earthworks which include 

trackways, 150 “grips” and possible woodland compartment boundaries. In 

general terms, most of these sites can be considered to be of local importance, 

although some examples may be of greater significance. 

Recommendations for further archaeological survey 

Whilst considerable new information on the archaeology has been gathered since 

2000, there remain several types of descriptive and investigative work: 

• Filling in blank areas within the existing surveys; 

• More detailed surveys of features recorded in the existing surveys; and 

• In exceptional circumstance, more explorative investigation of selected features. 

Sheffield Hallam University, who have a longstanding interest in the site, are 

focusing on filling in the blank areas within the existing survey, to be added to the 

GIS database periodically. 

The following priorities for detailed investigative work remain: 

22

• A probable field system present to the east of the Limb Brook, in Wood 3 which is 

potentially prehistoric, Romano-British or medieval. 

• Another boulder with possible rock art identified in the bird sanctuary by Ardron 

(2001) that requires verification further by a specialist 

• Enclosures north of Whirlowdale Road/west of Cow Lane, in Wood 1, of unknown 

origin 

• A sample of woodland compartment boundaries to record their construction 

• Ryecroft Mill and dam have not been systematically surveyed. This would be 

worthwhile to assess its current condition and any related conservation issues. 

Whirlow Wheel is in a fragile condition structurally, and options for its future are 

currently being considered. A photographic survey in 2006 (ARCUS) has provided 

considerable new information on the site that could be useful for future 

interpretation. 

Explorative investigation of selected features is limited to exceptional 

circumstances, as advised by SYAS. Work of this kind in the last five years 

has included excavation of part of a stone “tramway” prior to bridleway 

improvements in Wood 3 (ARCUS, 2004), and excavation of two Q-pits to better 

determine how they operated (ASE, 2007). 

Other management issues 

The GIS database, together with the SMR provide a very valuable management 

and reference tool for Parks and Countryside when planning proposed site works. 

Major works or those in sensitive areas are always complimented with a site visit 

with SYAS (and as appropriate Sheffield Hallam University), to inform project 

development and implementation. 

A self-guided Archaeological Trail has been produced, and the site-based 

interpretative information and events programmes help to interpret elements of the 

site’s rich heritage. However there is great scope for more public interpretation of 

the archaeological resource. At the same time, continuing the strong “community 

archaeology” projects initiated since 2001 would be very worthwhile. 

23

1.2.3 Landscape value 

Ecclesall Woods lie within the Yorkshire Southern Pennine Fringe Character Area 

as defined by the Countryside Commission (1998) and is situated on the southwestern 

suburbs of the City, rising gently from Abbeydale Road South northward. 

Much of this Countryside Area is characterised by urban influences, with a close 

conjunction of large-scale industry, urban areas and transport routes with open 

countryside. Urban development is confined mainly by valleys creating a dramatic 

interplay of views between settlements and the surrounding, frequently wooded, 

hillsides. Overall the impression is of a well-wooded landscape even though tree 

cover is relatively sparse. This broad description is fairly typical of the area around 

Ecclesall Woods. 

Much of the landscape surrounding the woodland is urban, although other 

woodland is frequent along the river Sheaf to the south-east, for example, Poynton 

Wood, Ladies Spring Wood and Hutcliffe Wood, which all lie on the north-west 

facing scarp slopes, whilst the western side of the site merges into open 

countryside, with the boundary of the Peak National Park lying only one and a half 

kilometres away. These other woodlands and nearby open spaces like Beauchief 

Golf course offer impressive views over the canopy of Ecclesall Woods, whilst from 

Limb Lane and Whirlow playing fields, the importance of the woodland within the 

landscape is also very high. 

For those using the main roads crossing/adjoining the site i.e. Abbeydale Road 

South, Abbey Lane, and Whirlowdale Road, the woodland provides a very 

attractive backdrop, whilst enhancing the amenity of the adjoining residential 

properties. 

The "landscape" within the woodland is also important. The presence of very large, 

mature Sweet Chestnut, and scattered mature Pine and Larch contribute greatly to 

the amenity of the site, whilst the various blocks of over-mature, large spreading 

Beech are of particular aesthetic appeal, and unique to this part of Sheffield. Whilst 

these species are introductions, the retention and replacement of a proportion of 

these species and character types is important for both aesthetic and historic 

reasons. 

24

1.2.4 Buildings and other facilities 

The primary buildings within the site are those located with the sawmill site 

including (refer to Figure 1.8): 

• Two workshops. The first (workshop 1) is a brick built structure, which also includes 

a small mess room and staff/business toilet, and is adjoined by an open-sided barn. 

The second (workshop 2), is a metal portal frame, which includes an disused wooddrying 

kiln, together with a further open-sided barn 

• A wooden portacabin 

• Two office portacabins 

• Two metal storage portacabins 

• A dehumidifier (within a metal container) 

• A compost toilet for the use of staff/site-based businesses 

• Small concrete hardstanding used as visitor, staff and tenants car parking area 

• A public toilet 

The great majority of these buildings and portacabins are occupied by tenants at 

will. 

In addition, Freeman College (RMET) constructed a green wood working shelter 

and compost toilet in Wood 3 in 2007. 

Site boundaries 

The majority of the site boundaries are residential and dominated by garden 

fencing, as well as remnant stone walling (and hedging) in places. Those adjoining 

highways are predominantly open (except for occasional sections of recent post 

and rail fencing) whilst those along the western edge of the site are demarcated by 

stone walls, (hedgerows and metal railings) and are in generally reasonable repair. 

Bridges and steps 

A number of wooden, stone and concrete bridges are present within the site, 

crossing over the Limb Brook and other streams and drainage channels. A stone 

bridge over the Ryecroft Brook in Wood 3 is a Grade II Listed Building. 

The majority are in a reasonable state of repair. Several small sections of steps are 

present in the site within Wood 3. All are in a good state of repair. Maintenance of 

all the structures is overseen by Premises and Assets, within DEL. 

An annual inspection of all bridges and steps, etc is undertaken by Parks and 

Countryside, and associated works undertaken as necessary. 

25

1.2.5 Use of the site 

Ecclesall Woods provides a wide variety of opportunities for informal and formal 

recreation. This value rises when placed within the context of adjacent public sites 

such Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet and Millhouses Park. 

A visitor survey (Hallam Environmental Consultants, 2006) undertaken in autumn 

2006 within Ecclesall Woods informs much of the following discussion. A full copy 

of the survey results can be viewed in Appendices 8A and 8B. 

(i) Assessment of the current usage 

Walking, often with a dog, is the commonest informal activity within the site, often 

related to “fresh air and exercise”. Horse riding and mountain biking are also 

popular together with a range of other recreation like natural history study, jogging, 

orienteering, and collecting chestnuts and mushrooms, to simply picking up school 

children. 

Nearly a third of visitors come every day, and tend to be in the woods alone or in 

pairs. A greater proportion of visitors appear to be female than male. The 25-59 

age group is the most common one recorded, whilst the great majority of visitors 

are of White British ethnicity. On the whole, most visitors have visited the woods 

before and feel that they had always known about the woods. The most common 

length of visit is for 30 minutes to 1 hour. 

Most visitors come from the nearby districts of Millhouses, Ecclesall and Dore, but 

visitors do come from across the City and outside. Despite the local origin of most 

visitors, more than half travel by car to the site. 

Abbey Lane is the most popular entrance point although Whirlowdale Road is 

almost as popular. Although all three woods appear to be equally popular in terms 

of regular use almost twice as many people in the 2006 survey had never visited 

Woods 1 and 2 as had never visited Wood 3. 

The greatest attraction to the woods appears to be their locality. 

26

(ii) Evaluation of the current recreational facilities 

Access points 

The majority of the access points into the woodland provide “access to all” and 

comply with Disability Discrimination Act guidelines. Most are defined by structures 

such as wide squeeze stiles, sometimes with wooden gates allowing access for 

management and emergency vehicles. Refer to the table below and Figure 1.9: 

Access 

point 

Current infrastructure 

1 Footpath entrance. Squeeze stile and wooden gate 



4 Bridleway entrance. Collapsible bollard 

5 Footpath entrance. Stone steps and hand rail 

6 Bridleway entrance. No access controls 

7 Footpath entrance. Collapsible bollard 

8 Footpath entrance. Collapsible bollard 





13 Footpath entrance. Squeeze stile 

14 Bridleway entrance. Squeeze stile and wooden gate 


16 Footpath entrance. No access controls 



19 Entrance to sawmill site. Metal gallows gate 




23 Bridleway entrance. Wooden gate 


25 Bridleway entrance. Squeeze stile and wooden gate 

26 Footpath entrance. Squeeze stile and steps 


28 Footpath entrance. Squeeze stile and metal gate 

29 Bridleway entrance. No access controls 

30 Informal entrance. No access controls 

31 Footpath access. Stone squeeze stile 

32 Footpath access. No access controls 

Public rights of way and other routes 

Ecclesall Woods is crossed by 15km of public rights of way (refer to Figure 1.10), of 

which around 40% are bridleways and the rest footpaths. A number of other 

recognised permissive routes are also present, plus other informal paths. 

In general, the definitive and permissive routes within the woodland are either flat 

or lie on gentle slopes providing on the whole, good access opportunities for a wide 

range of people with mixed abilities. 

27

During the implementation of the preceding management plan there were 

considerable additions to the network as a number of major desire lines, particularly 

those for horse-riders, were recognised formally, surfaced and signposted. Overall, 

this has helped to provide more circular routes and complete gaps in the network. 

In addition, many routes have either been surfaced for the first time or re-surfaced 

after many years, generally with recycled crushed brick, whilst all the signposting 

within the woodland was renewed and extended as required in 2004. 

Further minor improvements and continual maintenance are required, but the major 

improvements proposed in the previous management plan have been delivered. 

An “Easy Going Trail”, a route specially surfaced for those in wheelchairs was 

completed through Wood 1 and 2 in 1999, as designated by the Public Rights of 

Way Unit. The Sheffield Round Walk, established in the 1970’s, also crosses the 

site running adjacent to the Limb Brook in Wood 3. The Round Walk was relaunched 

in summer 2000 with new signage and an associated leaflet. 

Problems with anti-social behaviour such as motor biking or fly-tipping are 

extremely rare, but conflicts can occur occasionally when horse-riders or mountain 

bikers stray of the bridleway network onto footpaths. Horse-riders and dogs can 

also come into conflict. 

Sawmill site 

The sawmill site returned to City Council management in early 2006, after 12 years 

under lease to a private business. 

Apart from providing a setting for various wood-based businesses, this area now 

provides the basic functions of a visitor information point through the associated 

retail outlet/gallery, as well as an ideal location for hosting and/or starting 

community events, activities and training, and delivering projects with schools and 

other education work. A pedestrian link between the sawmill site and the woodland 

was completed in 2006, and a disabled toilet installed. However, at present, use of 

the toilet facilities is limited generally to the opening times of the retail outlet. 

A feasibility study considering the future use of the site was completed in 2004 

following in-depth consultation with key stakeholder groups, and can be viewed at: 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/trees-woodlands/ecclesall-woods 

The agreed primary aims are: 

• To provide small to medium scale visitor facilities, including an 

information/orientation point and toilets 

• To provide a dedicated staff/Ranger presence 

• To provide a related programme of education, interpretation and training 

• To provide purpose-built workshops for wood craft businesses, furniture makers, 

etc 

• To provide a retail outlet for both high and low quality sustainable wood products 

Figure 1.11 provides an indicative vision for the site taken from the feasibility 

28

study. 

Realising the vision will be one of the Key aspirations for the management 

plan over the next five years. 

Seating 

Woodland benches are present throughout the woodland having been increased 

substantially since 2001, partly through donations for memorial benches 

Car parking and highway crossings 

Formal car parking is available on the western edge of Abbey Lane, within the 

sawmill site and at Limb Lane picnic site. Abbey Lane is the most popular place for 

visitors to park. Many visitors also park on Whirlowdale Road, dividing Woods 1 

and 2, and to a lesser extent on Abbeydale Road South and Ryecroft Glen Road, to 

access Wood 3. All the parking facilities are in good condition, except those at the 

sawmill site that require an upgrade. 

There is no specific parking provision for the disabled. However, the ease of 

parking close to main access points is considered to meet the needs of all 

members of the community. 

Finally, with the woodland bisected by highways, road crossing by site users can be 

an issue. A formalised crossing is present between Woods 1 and 2, and a proper 

pedestrian crossing is present on Abbey Lane, a little below the woods, and can be 

used to cross between Woods 2 and 3. However, its position is a little inconvenient, 

and it is clear from the 2006 visitor survey that the crossing of Abbey Lane between 

Woods 2 and 3 is a serious concern for users. Parks and Countryside takes these 

concerns seriously, and will encourage Highway Services to address this issue as a 

matter of priority 

(iii) Perceptions of the site by the community 

The five main things that attracted visitors to the woodland in the 2006 survey were: 

• it’s a good place to walk the dog; 

• it’s local / convenient; 

• nature / wildlife; 

• peace and quiet; 

• and the woodland’s beauty 

Almost all of those surveyed responded that they had used the signed paths and 

trails within the woods and almost three quarters of these felt that the route marking 

was good or very good. In addition to this over three quarters felt that the trail 

surfacing was good or very good. Generally those interviewed were pleased with 

the facilities and services however many felt that Abbey Lane was very dangerous 

and required a crossing. There was also a strong demand for dog waste bins and 

a reasonable demand for more benches and improvements to information boards 

and signs. Other improvements suggested were continued path maintenance and 

enforcement of the bridleway and footpath regulations. 

Most of those surveyed were aware of work that had been carried out in the last 

five years and many commented on path and tree maintenance, and to a lesser 

29

extent the improved signage. Visitors were also relatively aware of the important 

wildlife and heritage aspects of the woods. The bird sanctuary was most commonly 

mentioned but the woods' charcoal industry history was also well known. The 

majority of respondents rated the management of Ecclesall Woods as very good or 

good. 

Just over half of those surveyed were aware of the work of the Friends of Ecclesall 

Woods, and were aware of the plans to regenerate the sawmill site on Abbey Lane. 

The high number of local responses, and similarity of those surveyed in terms of 

ethnicity, age and reasons for visiting the woods may be linked to the survey period 

being late in the year (October-November) when visitor numbers are likely to be 

more restricted. A spring or summer survey may gather responses from visitors 

from further a-field and gather a wider range of responses. 

Further survey during the Spring is recommended during the life-time of this plan. 

(v) Interpretation, educational and training provision and programmes 

Interpretation 

Site signage is present at all primary site entrances and many of the secondary 

ones, with ownership and contact details. Six interpretative panels are strategically 

placed around the woodland at the primary site entrances, with associated notice 

boards used to advertise forthcoming events, etc 

The bird sanctuary is clearly marked around its boundaries, whilst the Wood 

Colliers memorial in Wood 2, and several other archaeological features in this part 

of the woodland are promoted through the Archaeological Trail leaflet and 

associated signage. A leaflet entitled “A seasonal walk through Ecclesall Woods” is 

also available. Refer to Section 1.6 for more detail on these. 

Education, events and training 

Ecclesall Woods has a long history in providing a setting for interpretation and 

education. 

The woodland provided the focus for a national conference on ancient woodlands 

in 1992 by Sheffield Hallam University, and was used by the Small Woodlands 

Association as part of their national conference in 1999. It is used regularly by the 

two Sheffield Universities, local colleges and Losehill Hall - the Peak District 

National Park Study Centre at Castleton - for education and training purposes. As 

such the woodland has been visited by or is known about by many within the 

countryside and woodland profession nationally. 

Parks and Countryside provide an annual programme of community events and 

activities, and deliver targeted work with schools from across Sheffield in the 

woodland. In addition, an education pack for local schools is also available (refer to 

Section 1.6 for more information). In addition, the woodland is used weekly for 

health walks by the Ranger Service. 

(iv) Alternatives and enhancement measures 

30

Based on the above, the following key improvements are proposed for the next five 

years: 

• Aspire to achieve the full vision for the sawmill site, particularly the aspirations for 

site based staff, expanded visitor facilities (including toilet facilities open every day), 

and related interpretative information. Greater effort is also needed to raise 

awareness of the developing project here, through an associated and enlarged 

programme of community events, open days, training courses; greater publicity; 

and continuing public and stakeholder consultation and participation in the 

associated master-planning and feasibility work 

• To maintain and where necessary extend the improvements to the rights of way 

network and associated signage achieved over the last five years 

• To provide dog bins at primary site entrances 

• To provide more benches where needed 

• To vigorously advocate a pedestrian crossing between Woods 2 and 3, in liaison 

with Highway Services 

• To update interpretative information and materials as appropriate 

• To raise greater awareness of the role and activities of the Friends of Ecclesall 

Woods through more regular joint publicity with the City Council and others; greater 

support for events, etc; increased use of the developing visitor facilities in the 

sawmill site to improve marketing of the group; development of a FEW web page, 

etc 

• To provide educational events and activities that will reduce conflict between 

walkers, cyclists and horse-riders, supported by appropriate policing of the site 

byelaws by the City Council 

1.2.6 Community involvement 

The local and wider community have long been involved in the care and 

management of Ecclesall Woods. 

In 1993, the Friends of Ecclesall Woods (FEW) was inaugurated. It currently has a 

membership of around 160 mainly local people and produces a newsletter four 

times a year. The Friends provide a focal point for communicating the local 

community's concerns and interests about the woodland to the Council, with regular 

liaison through site visits, telephone conversations, attendance by Officers at FEW 

committee meetings as necessary, and attendance at the FEW AGM. The Dore 

Village Society (established in the 1960’s registered as a charity in 1993, with 1100 

members) also has a keen interest in the area, particularly Wood 3. 

FEW regularly undertake ecological survey and archaeological survey, and help 

greatly in the on-going programme of path maintenance and improvements, 

amongst many other things. FEW have also been increasingly successful in 

attracting both City Council and other funding, particularly through the Lottery 

funded Local Heritage Initiative. 

Parks and Countryside is very keen to promote the further development and 

success of FEW and will continue to support it and other community groups in as 

many ways as possible. The community are kept informed of all proposed major or 

potentially contentious management work, as well as events, etc through the 

provision of appropriate site notices, press releases, individual letters to residents, 

and contributions to the FEW newsletter and “Dore to Dore” , newsletter of the Dore 

Village Society, circulated to thousands of local residents several times a year 

31

Many other natural history groups use the site regularly for study and monitoring, 

for example, the Sorby Natural History Group and Sheffield Bird Study Group. The 

woodland has long been used for research and study by local schools, and 

universities, particularly Sheffield Hallam, who have gathered considerable 

information on the ecological, social and historic interest of the area. 

1.3 Environmental Value 

1.3.1 Physical 

The following sub-sections are mostly taken from Avison and Rotherham (1998). 

(a) Hydrology 

Drainage is generally in an east-south-east direction, with the Limb Brook 

forming a permanent stream feature in Wood 3. Figure 1.12 indicates 

streams, and drainage ditches within the site, which all ultimately feed into the 

River Sheaf. 

Changes in the local water balance have occurred as a result of changes in 

surrounding land-use, through urbanisation in the last 100 years, as well as 

increased drainage within the woodland during the eighteenth and nineteenth 

centuries. It is thought that the reduction in water input that has occurred is unlikely 

to have had a significant impact upon the woodland ecology along the Limb Brook 

corridor (Griffith 1996). 

However, away from public rights of way, etc some of the internal drains have been 

allowed to backfill and the woodland may be becoming increasingly re-wetted in 

limited places. Several drains, particularly those near the woodland's boundaries 

are maintained on a regular basis to prevent flooding of adjoining properties, and 

indeed several were repaired and their capacity increased in 1999 to reduce 

flooding along Abbeydale Road. 

Data provided by the Environment Agency (1999), who monitor the Limb Brook on 

a regular basis, indicates that short-lived pollution incidents occur during periods of 

heavy rainfall, probably from storm water overflows discharging into the Limb Brook 

and from field run-off and other farming origins. Ochreous deposits are found in the 

Limb Brook and its feeder streams. These emanate from the surrounding bedrock 

and the former Dore Colliery. The Coal Authority is currently assessing the level of 

pollution associated with this and formulating approaches to reducing it 

The water quality in other streams within the wood is thought to be generally good. 

32

(b) Topography 

From a height of around 110 m Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) along the eastern 

edge of the woodland adjoining Abbeydale Road South, ground levels rise to over 

c175 m AOD at the bird sanctuary in the south-west and by the entrance from Cow 

Lane in the north-west. The rising ground is punctuated by the channels and 

valleys of a series of streams flowing into the River Sheaf. The largest of these 

streams is the Limb Brook, whose valley forms steep high slopes below the southwest 

sides of the bird sanctuary. To the west of the bird sanctuary, Ryecroft Glen 

rises to a height of around 200 m AOD by the A625 Hathersage Road. The 

Ryecroft Brook, a tributary of the Limb Brook, runs from a western arm of the 

woodland which rises to a height of around 200 m AOD by the entrance from Limb 

Lane (Arrowsmith, 1999). 

(c) Geology, geomorphology and hydro-geology 

The solid geology consists of strata belonging to the Lower Coal Measures Series 

(Westphalian A series) of the Silesian stage of the Upper Carboniferous period. 

These strata comprise conformable beds of greenish-brown sandstones, blue-grey 

mudstones and black shales with coal seams and their attendant seat-earths 

beneath them. The strata dip gently towards the south-east at an angle of about 5 

degrees. 

Figure 1.13 depicts the underlying geology across the site. 

(d) Pedology 

During the 16th and 17th centuries the soils within the woodland are believed to 

have been substantially disrupted by the stripping of topsoil for charcoal and white 

coal production. 

The large areas of markedly acid soils of around pH 3.2 that are found throughout 

the woodland typically have a very thin 'A' horizon or top layer of approximately 2-4 

cm presumably because of this disruption. Soil nutrient levels for plants tend to be 

very low. In the few remaining wet areas, where disruption appears not to have 

occurred to any degree, neutral to slightly base rich soils (averaging around pH 7) 

have developed into deeper, brown earths, typically with an 'A' or surface horizon of 

approximately 4 - 15 cm in depth and increased available soil nutrient levels for 

plants. 

(e) Climate 

The following data is from the Weston Park weather station, Sheffield, the nearest 

meteorological station to the site. The figures are based on 30 year averages. 

Temperature January July 

Average (Celsius) 4.0 16.6 

Rainfall 

Average (mm) 88 51 

33

1.3.2 Biodiversity 

Overview 

This section summarises the most significant animals and plants recorded from 

Ecclesall Woods. A full list of plant species recorded is included within Appendix 2. 

Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Reports 1 and 2 (DETR, 1995) have set the 

priorities for species and habitat protection for the foreseeable future. The species 

included are sub-divided into three lists – long, middle and short – with the latter 

two of most importance. The Steering Group advise that specific management 

recommendations for species focus on those included in the short and middle list, 

whilst noting the presence of those in the long list and directing more general 

management prescriptions towards their conservation. 

At the local level, the Sheffield Nature Conservation Strategy (SCC, 1991) 

highlights both Priority Habitats and Critical Wildlife Species in either Grade A or B 

local Red Data Book lists. However, this has now been partially superseded by the 

Sheffield Local Biodiversity Action Plan, 2001 (LBAP) 

The following UK and Sheffield BAP species and habitats have been recorded at 

the site: 

Priority Type 

UK BAP Priorities 

(short and middle 

lists) 

Sheffield LBAP 

Priorities 

Species Habitat 

White-clawed 

Crayfish 

Song Thrush 

Bullfinch 

Spotted Flycatcher 

Pipistrelle Bat 

Water Vole 

Bluebell 

Liverwort Lejeunea 

lamacerina 

Common Frog, 

Common Toad, 

Grass Snake 

Over 20 bird species 

Daubenton’s, 

Noctule, 

Whiskered/Brandts, 

Soprano Bats, 

Badger 

Hedgehog, 

Common and Pygmy 

Shrew 

Local Red Data Climbing Corydalis 

34 

Wet woodland 

Wet woodland 

Ancient woodland 

Veteran Trees 

Scrub 

Rivers and Streams 

Standing Water

(a) Fungi 

Priority Type 

Species Habitat 

lists Alder Buckthorn 

Toothwort 

Wild Daffodil 

Yellow Rattle 

Sanicle 

Early Dog Violet 

Specific management for these species is included in Sections 3 and 4. 

Over 170 species have been recorded from Ecclesall Woods, found in a variety of 

habitats including deadwood, leaf litter, and the various tree and shrub species 

present within the site (Lyon, 1997). All are of local importance. 

(b) Flowering plants and ferns 

The flowering plants of Ecclesall Woods have been comprehensively recorded over 

many decades. To date, 421 species have been recorded. 

In general, the majority of the site can be provisionally assigned to the 

National Vegetation Classification (NVC) community W10 Quercus robus – 

Pteridium aquilinum - Rubus fruticosus and to a lesser extent, W16 Quercus 

spp - Betula spp - Deschampsia flexuosa woodland (Rodwell 1991). Refer to 

Figure 1.14. 

Where W10 is dominant, the canopy comprises a varied mix of mature Oak, both 

Sessile and hybrids with Pedunculate, as well as localised concentrations of Sweet 

Chestnut , European Larch and Scots Pine, over a varied open shrub layer 

characterised by mature Holly some of which is hybridised to Highclere Holly (Ilex x 

altaclerensis). Major storm damage in 1962 opened up the canopy, allowing for 

natural regeneration of Silver Birch and Oak in particular, typically with Rowan and 

Sweet Chestnut. 

The field layer is generally species poor, typically comprising Bluebell, Soft 

Creeping-grass, Honeysuckle, Bramble, Broad Buckler Fern and Bracken, with 

localised concentrations of other herbs like Wood Anemone, Yellow Archangel and 

Greater Stitchwort on richer damper soils 

More acid soils, particularly those on steep-ground or perhaps most affected by 

human activities, are characterised by W16 communities, where Wavy Hair-grass, 

and occasionally Heather, Bilberry and Great Woodrush are typical. Bare ground 

can be frequent in these areas. 

The frequent flush lines, streams and drainage ditches crossing the woodland are 

characterised by narrow belts of Common Alder, with Ash and Sycamore, as well 

as frequent Hazel. These support a diverse field layer dominated by Lesser 

Celandine, with a wide range of associated herbs like Wood Anemone, Red 

Campion, Yellow Pimpernel, Meadowsweet, Bugle, Opposite-leaved Goldensaxifrage, 

and Tufted Hair-grass. More unusual plants like Common Valerian, 

Pendulous Sedge, Sanicle, Remote Sedge and Floating Sweet-grass are present in 

places in these stands. These areas form a mosaic of the NVC communities W7 

35

Alnus glutinosa - Fraxinus excelsior - Lysimachia nemorum and W8 Fraxinus 

excelsior - Acer campestre - Mercuralis perennis woodland. W7 woodland is 

classed as “wet woodland” within the UK BAP and a Key Habitat. 

The best marginal aquatic flora within the site is found in the silted-up Ryecroft Mill 

pond, with species including Water Forget-me-not, Skullcap and Common Valerian 

(Firkins, 1987). 

Where Beech forms extensive, dense stands, the original Oak-birch communities 

have been modified into NVC W15 Fagus sylvatica - Deschampsia flexuosa 

woodland, where bare ground and a sparse shrub layer can be prevalent. 

A small area of rank neutral grassland with scrub and young trees is present just 

north of the bird sanctuary. 

A range of garden escapes and other deliberately planted ornamental species are 

present within the site, particularly along the woodland margins, like Snowberry. 

More invasive species like Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed are present 

in localised concentrations along watercourses and in damp areas, whilst 

Rhododendron is occasional around the bird sanctuary and elsewhere, and Cherry 

Laurel is present in small quantities, mainly in Wood 1. 

Overall, the woodland supports a large number of ancient woodland plant indicators 

(Peterken, 1993). 

Nine common ferns have been recorded from the woodland, with Bracken (and 

Broad Buckler Fern) the most frequent. 

(c) Bryophytes and lichens 

Sixteen liverworts, and forty-two mosses have been recorded (Rotherham and 

Jones, 1997). In general, the bryophyte flora is poor. Those that do occur are 

found predominantly in damp ditches, on gritstone boulders/walls, or rotting wood, 

fallen trees and tree bases, with the richest communities found in and along the 

streams and stream banks. 

Several of the species present may be relicts of the ancient woodland: the 

Lejeunea - Heterocladium - Homalis community of streamside rocks is not common 

locally, and is sensitive to disturbance, especially loss of tree cover, suggesting its 

presence at Ecclesall Woods is relictual. The presence of Leptodontium flexifolium 

is also unusual. Its characteristic habitat is well-drained peaty soil. Dicranum 

montanum remains rare in N England (this is its only record from SW Yorkshire). It 

was recorded as an epiphyte on Birch. 

A baseline survey of lichens of Ecclesall Woods was undertaken by Gilbert in 1993 

(Rotherham and Jones, 1997) and forty-two species were recorded although many 

in only very small amounts. Lichens are generally distributed throughout the wood, 

but wetter areas are distinctly richer due to the wider range of tree species they 

support. A few pollution-tolerant species are abundant, but the majority are rare or 

very rare. These included Cladonia caespiticia, found on a single tree stump, which 

has only three records from Derbyshire, and was not previously known from South 

Yorkshire. This record is from the southern half of Wood 1. 

36

Overall, the epiphytic lichen flora of Ecclesall Woods is still severely impoverished 

by sulphur dioxide air pollution, which continues to halt the spread of intolerant 

species. 

(d) Invertebrates 

420 species (including 11 bugs, 14 beetles, 15 butterflies, 220 moths, 2 crane flies, 

38 hoverflies, 23 other flies, and over 100 spider species) have been recorded from 

Ecclesall Woods (Sorby Invertebrate Database, 2006). As such, the site is included 

on English Nature’s Invertebrate Site Register. The following species are 

Regionally Notable (NB): 

The crab spider Philodromus praedatus (1980), found on the lower branches of 

large Oaks near woodland edges; the fly Suillia dumicala (1970, 1980), found on 

woodland and open moorland, which probably develops in fungi; the hoverfly 

Sphegina verecunda, (1980-93), found in shaded areas near streams and probably 

living in deadwood, the hoverfly Didea fasciata (1989); and the micro-moth Anglestriped 

Sallow (1965-91) which occurs in mature Birch woodland, the larva feeding 

on Birch. 

A wide variety of species which are Local in the UK have also been recorded, and 

highlight the value of deadwood, damp areas, open glades and rides and species 

rich, graded woodland margins. 

The three hoverflies Brachypalporides lenta, Criorhina berberina and C.floccosa are 

all considered ancient woodland indicators (Stubbs, 1982). All three depend on 

dead and rotting wood (Whiteley, pers-comm, 1999). 

Important characteristics for this large group include a varied woodland structure, 

glades, standing and fallen deadwood, graded woodland edges, wet ditches, 

flushes and streams, and gradation into other semi-natural habitats like unimproved 

grassland. Nectar sources such as Blackthorn, Bramble, Hawthorn, Rose and 

Willow are all valuable (Kirby, 1992). 

(e) Amphibians, fish and reptiles 

Common Toad, Common Frog and Grass Snake have all been recorded from 

Ecclesall Woods, with Grass Snake thought to breed in the sawmill site. 

(f) Crustaceans 

(f) Birds 

White-clawed Crayfish, a globally threatened species included in Annex II and V of 

the EC Habitats Directive, has been recorded in the Limb Brook (Ecology Unit, 

2006). 

It lives in holes in the waterside banks or beneath large stones. Excessive 

disturbance from recreational use of waterside areas may affect the species. 

Survey work is needed to assess its full status at the site, and to develop 

associated management recommendations. 

37

The bird population of Ecclesall Woods has been recorded over many decades and 

continues to be regularly monitored by the Sheffield Bird Study Group. At present, 

around 42 species are resident, of which 21 are breeding, whilst 14 migrants are 

regularly recorded, of which 4 breed (Medforth and Rotherham 1990). 

Overall, the bird life is fairly typical of mature broad-leaved woodland on the Coal 

Measures: The majority of the woodland is mature and as such supports breeding, 

populations of Sparrowhawk, Great and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Tawny Owl, 

Treecreeper, Blue and Great Tit, Nuthatch, Jay and Chiffchaff. More unusual, and 

with exception of the first, non-breeding, are records for Pied Flycatcher, Redstart 

and Wood Warbler, particularly from the mature Oak stands to the north-west of the 

bird sanctuary. 

The dense bramble found within many parts of the site is important nesting habitat 

for Wren, Long-tailed Tit, Willow Tit, Dunnock, Blackbird, Chaffinch, Song Thrush, 

Willow Warbler and Robin, especially along woodland edges. The wet, marshy 

ground along the streams, ditches and around the abandoned Ryecroft Mill is 

probably attractive to Willow Tit and Woodcock, and in the case of the disused 

millpond, Mallard, Heron, (and Kingfisher). The areas of mature Beech, provide 

autumn feed for birds like Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Brambling, whilst the scattered 

Scots Pine and European Larch are of value to Coal Tit and Goldcrest. 

A Bird Sanctuary, covering 17 hectares, was established within Wood 3 in 1929 

and is surrounded by a post and wire fence. Since inception the area has been 

managed under a minimal intervention policy and is not open to the public. Since 

2002 a small heronry has developed in the sanctuary, with seven pairs nesting in 

2006. 

An annual Common Bird Census of the bird sanctuary and Wood 2 has been 

undertaken since 2000. 

(g) Mammals 

Nineteen species have been recorded since 1980, including Water Vole along the 

Limb Brook, together with Pipistrelle Bat, Whiskered/Brandts Bat, Soprano 

Pipistrelle and Noctule Bat, Badger, Hedgehog, Roe and Red Deer, as well as 

Wood Mouse, Bank Vole, Rabbit, Grey Squirrel, Brown Rat, Common and Pygmy 

Shrew, Mole and Fox. Water Shrew is thought to be present (Rotherham, 

pers.comm, 2000). 

The present status of Water Vole at the site is unclear and re-survey is 

recommended. 

A growing number of badger setts are found within the site. The setts are regularly 

monitored by the South Yorkshire Badger Group. At present no specific habitat 

management is needed to improve the site for this species, and no special 

protection measures are required as persecution is not an issue (South Yorkshire 

Badger Group, pers.comm, 2006). 

38

1.3.3 Silvicultural assessment, evaluation and management options 

Introduction 

Ecclesall Woods is predominantly ancient Oak-birch woodland, although greatly 

modified from the nineteenth century by planting of introduced species like Beech, 

Sweet Chestnut and Larch. The woodland around Limb Lane car park and Whirlow 

playing fields is characterised by recent mixed plantations established since the 

1960’s, whilst Square Plantation and much of the woodland to the west of the Limb 

Brook originates from nineteenth century planting on open ground. 

The majority of Ecclesall Woods can be assigned to the National Vegetation 

Classification types W10, with areas of W16 on the more acid soils. 

In the national context, the obvious feature of the field layer of W10 woodland is its 

general species poverty, with Bluebell, Bracken, Bramble and Honeysuckle 

representing the dominant species. Lush swards of Creeping Soft-grass are also 

characteristic (Rodwell, 1991). In common parlance, these are "Bluebell woods" 

with Bluebell forming the commonest vernal dominant. In the latter, Wavy Hairgrass 

and Bracken is predominant, whilst Heather (and Bilberry) can occur on the 

most acid sites, as within parts of Ecclesall Woods. However, this simplified picture 

is blurred within Ecclesall Woods by intensive management for charcoal and 

whitecoal, which through the use of turves in the production process has altered the 

woodland soils and drastically impoverished the ground vegetation as a result. 

The traditional management of NVC W10 oakwoods has been coppicing and 

extensive records for this practice survive for Ecclesall Woods. Nationally, it is clear 

that where silvicultural management has ceased, these woodland types have 

become progressively shadier with the loss of distinctive post-coppice floras, 

associated with NVC W10 in particular (Rodwell 1991), and certain characteristic 

fauna. 

The present day Ecclesall Woods is not characterised by any extensive abandoned 

coppice. Coppicing was already in decline by the early nineteenth century, and the 

woodland was slowly being transformed through the planting of generally 

introduced species and the singling of old coppice stools, promoting a radical 

change to high forest. Later, the woodland was seriously affected by storm 

damage in 1962, resulting in the windthrow of blocks of mature trees throughout. 

Many of these areas have now filled with Birch - dominated natural regeneration. 

As such, the present woodland structure is a mixture of singled old coppice stools, 

mature planted trees, coppice "standards" retained beyond their original rotation 

and recent natural regeneration. 

Whilst the reinstatement of coppicing on an extensive scale is considered 

unrealistic and inappropriate (English Nature 1997), other methods of felling and 

regenerating mature woodland, for example, thinning and group-felling, can mimic 

the effects of coppicing on the woodland flora and produce a structurally diverse 

woodland, with knock-on benefits for wildlife (Peterken 1993). However, providing a 

suitable, small area that demonstrates traditional coppice management is 

worthwhile for interpretation, and as such, coppice with standards management 

was re-introduced to a small part on Wood 1 in the early 1990’s. 

39

Additional interest is created by base rich flushes, drainage ditches and 

streamsides along the Limb Brook and elsewhere which typically support a mix of 

both the NVC type W7 and W8 woodland, characterised by Ash, Alder, (and Wych 

Elm), Hazel, (and Guelder Rose), and a more diverse field layer. Sycamore is now 

frequent within many of these areas. 

In accordance with national woodland policies (Forestry Commission, 1998; 

UKWAS, 2006) the introduction of further non-native species is not recommended, 

as this will only serve to further dilute the historic meaning and wildlife value of this 

ancient woodland. In the long-term, the proportions of introduced species should 

be reduced, whilst bearing in mind that many of the introduced species are long 

established and form part of the cultural history and aesthetic appeal of the 

woodland. Long-term removal should not be the goal, but rather a gradual shift to a 

greater semi-natural character where required and practical. 

Recent silvicultural management 

Following the 1962 storm and the resulting windthrown damage, a number of small 

plantations were established within the openings created, including a wide variety 

of species, for example, Sitka Spruce and Beech. Only a few signs of these 

plantations survive and their impact on the woodland has been limited. Most of the 

areas windthrow have now filled with dense Birch-dominated pole-stage natural 

regeneration. 

In 1982 an experimental glade was created in Wood 2 as part of a research project 

by the University of Sheffield (Gilbert 1982). This has now infilled with dense Birch 

and Oak regeneration. 

During the previous management plan, active silvicultural management was reintroduced 

to the woodland after an absence of 100 years. Beech dominated 

stands within Wood 3 (Compartment 116g) was thinned, helping to diversify the 

structure, kick-start the regeneration process and encouraged the recovery of the 

severely impoverished ground layer, with knock-on benefits for wildlife. The other 

areas of beech woodland (Compartments 114b and 115b) have been affected by 

safety related tree works, helping to open the canopy and encourage extensive 

regeneration of predominantly native trees, and some recovery of the ground layer, 

especially in compartment 114b. Parts of the Sessile Oak-birch stands in Wood 2 

(Compartment 114a) were also thinned to favour the development of the better 

trees, and reduce the proportion of Sycamore, whilst the recent plantations at Limb 

Lane (Compartment 116a) and Whirlow playing fields (Compartment 116b) were 

thinned for the first time. 

In 1994, an experimental coppice with standards area was developed in Wood 1 

(Compartment 115d), but follow-up management was intermittent. During the 

previous management plan the area was brought back into active management 

through the planting of additional shrubs/coppice and the periodic manual control of 

bracken and bramble. Continued control of competing vegetation will be needed 

over this plan period to allow the developing coppice to become properly 

established, and gradually shade out the bramble, etc. In the next 10 years, a 

reduction in the number of standards would be useful, to allow more light to reach 

the coppice and field layers. 

Tree work related to health and safety is an on-going part of the site’s maintenance 

programme, and in the last two decades has helped to develop an impressive 

40

standing and fallen deadwood resource for a variety of wildlife, whilst generally 

adding to the amenity of the site. 

Future Management Options 

• Neutral Sessile Oak - Birch woodland 

Much of Ecclesall Woods (Compartments 114a, 114c, 115a, 115e, and 116f) is 

dominated by the above stand type (NVC W10), although affected to different 

degrees by planting. Mature Oak is characteristic, with a frequently well-developed 

sub-canopy of pole-stage, 30-40 year old Birch dominated regeneration which has 

developed following the 1962 storm. Where storm damage was more extensive, the 

pole-stage trees form the canopy. Small amounts of advance regeneration are 

present in places. 

In terms of future management, thinning of the denser areas of pole-stage trees 

would be beneficial to promote healthy crown development, timber potential and a 

desired mix of species, at the same time favouring shrub (and field) layer species. 

This would continue the work started in compartment 114a in the previous 

management plan. Some selective thinning of the mature canopy, especially 

around large-crowned locally native trees would encourage their longevity, seed 

production and the further development of advance regeneration, but this should be 

limited as many of the mature Oak trees are remnants of the coppice with 

standards management system prevalent until the mid-nineteenth century, and are 

of high ecological and heritage value. 

• Acid Sessile Oak-Birch woodland 

A large stand of acid Oak-Birch woodland (Compartment 116j) is present along a 

steep, west-facing scarp in Wood 3, characterised by NVC type W16, but possibly 

grading into W17 (upland Oak wood). This area appears to have been little 

affected by plantation forestry, containing very few introduced species and a great 

variety of shape and form. It may have derived directly from abandoned coppice. 

Light thinning around the larger crowned Oak and other native species may 

promote the development of advance regeneration, which could then be favoured 

by gradual group-felling. 

Mixed coniferous/broadleaved woodland 

Within Compartments 115f and 116f Scots (and Corsican) Pine, and European 

Larch form co-dominant parts of the canopy with Oak, Sycamore, and other 

occasional broadleaved species, giving these stands a unique character within 

Ecclesall Woods. Pole-stage regeneration of Birch, etc is occasional, whilst natural 

regeneration is generally rare. 

Whilst not all ancient woodland, management of these areas should favour a 

gradual shift to a more semi-natural composition to help promote the wider wildlife 

value of the overall site. However, in general a pragmatic approach that involves 

thinning to the best-formed trees, and releasing any developing regeneration would 

be appropriate bearing the above in mind. 

41

Mature Beech woodland 

Compartments 114b, 115b, and 116g are dominated by mature Beech with very 

large, well-crowned over-mature Beech particularly characteristic of compartment 

114b. Overall, these stands are of very high amenity value. However, undermanagement 

until the mid-1990’s had left these areas with an increasingly closed, 

shady canopy of mostly mature trees, with frequent bare earth and very limited 

structural diversity. 

Within Compartment 114b tree safety felling and reduction over the last 10 years 

has allowed good patches of mixed broadleaved natural regeneration to develop, 

and the localised re-colonisation of a field layer. Safety work in Compartment 115b 

during 2005 will start this same process here. 

For these compartments the continuing gradual natural decline of the mature 

Beech will necessitate periodic tree safety works, simultaneously encouraging the 

gradual re-structuring of these stands, and is considered an appropriate way to 

achieve this without the need for formal thinning regimes. Areas of dense 

regenerating woodland should be respaced as necessary to encourage an 

appropriate mix of species. For compartment 116g, the tree-thinning operations of 

2002 should be followed by further light thinning as and when necessary, to release 

the developing regeneration. 

Whilst Beech is not native within this part of Britain, it has formed part of the 

woodland's character for well over a century, and its form, shape and colour is 

greatly valued by visitors. However, as previously discussed the proportion of 

Beech should be gradually reduced within these stands by encouraging mixed 

broadleaved regeneration more typical of the semi-natural vegetation communities 

of the local area such as Oak and Birch. 

Ash and Sycamore woodland 

Compartments 115c, 116L, and 116m are characterised by remnants of greatly 

modified wet woodland, with Sycamore predominant in an intimate mixture with 

Ash, Hazel, and occasional Alder. These areas support some of the richest plant 

communities within the site, including a good variety of ancient woodland species, 

as well as being of most importance within the woodland for bryophytes, and of 

generally high value for invertebrates. 

Whilst Sycamore and the scattered conifers are not a particular threat to the nature 

conservation value of these areas, it would be preferable to encourage a greater 

proportion of locally native trees and shrubs such as Ash, Alder, Crack Willow, 

Hazel and Guelder Rose as appropriate to increase opportunities for associated 

wildlife, whilst accepting that Sycamore is here to stay in these areas. Occasional 

thinning would help promote structural diversity, and could be used to encourage 

the native species present here, whilst maintaining reasonable light levels to the 

rich ground flora. 

Young mixed plantations 

Thinning of the 30-40 year old mixed plantations around the Limb Lane picnic area 

and Whirlow playing fields (compartments 116a and 116c) should continue on a 5-7 

year cycle, to favour the best-formed trees 

42

1.4. Health and Safety 

Policies, Procedures and Guidelines 

• The full DEL Health and Safety Policy for 2006 can be found on the City Councilis 

internal intranet site at http://sheffield.net/managers/health-safety (Please note 

that this Internal link is only available to staff ) 

• An A4 summary document has been produced and included in Appendix 5A. 

• Sheffield City Council has a pro-active, defendable approach to the management of 

its tree stock’s health and safety. All trees close to primary definitive and 

recognised routes and formal access points undergo a risk assessment every three 

years, and those next to secondary routes every five years. Trees next to the 

highway are inspected annually. Associated remedial work is undertaken as 

identified. A risk assessment of other structures, etc within the woodland is 

undertaken annually 

• During routine visits by Parks and Countryside staff any maintenance or problems 

identified such as damaged access structures, etc are dealt with promptly. 

Associated problems and incidents, like fallen trees, reported by members of the 

public are logged in the CONFIRM system and dealt with as appropriate. There is 

also a SCC Corporate public comments, complaints and feedback procedure which 

is adhered to as appropriate (refer to Appendix 5B) 

• A procedure for dealing with anti-social behaviour has been produced for staff and 

includes guidelines for dealing with motor bikes, distressed members of the public 

etc. The procedure can be found in appendix 5C 

• Should discarded syringes be found in the site, staff should follow the ‘PC Safe 

System of Work for the removal of needles and syringes’ guidelines which can be 

found in appendix 5D 

A Healthy, Safe and Secure Site 

• First Aid and Emergency Information 

First aid facilities are provided at the sawmill site, within the shop and the 

workshops. 

The majority of Parks and Countryside staff working at the site are trained in ‘First 

Aid at Work’. 

Accident reporting procedures are detailed on the relevant accident form 

(employees accident, violence to staff or public accident). A copy is kept at the 

main Parks and Countryside headquarters at Meersbrook Park and the original sent 

to the DEL Health and Safety Officer. 

The majority of Parks and Countryside staff (for example Rangers) working at the 

site wear a recognizable uniform, with the SCC logo and can be approached by the 

public for information or assistance. 

• Site Monitoring 

43

The woodland is regularly visited and monitored by the Trees and Woodlands 

Section and the Southern Ranger Team. Should a member of the public report an 

incident / damage in the park to a member of staff this is recorded on the P and C 

CONFIRM system. 

• Physical Improvements to Improve Safety 

Much of the on-going management and maintenance undertaken across the 

woodland has improved safety in the woodland and the perception of safety. This 

will be reinforced during the implementation of this plan 

• Provision of other basic facilities 

A public toilet, suitable for the disabled, was installed at the sawmill site in 2006. 

However, its opening hours are linked to the when the associated retail 

outlet/gallery is open and when Parks and Countryside are running events, etc from 

the site. Public toilets are also available 7 days a week, at nearby Parks and 

Countryside sites Whirlow Brook Park and Millhouses Park. This information is 

included on the site-based interpretative panels. 

There is no public telephone available on site, but information on the location of the 

nearest one should be made available. 

Personal Security in the Site 

• Staff Security 

All staff have access to or carry their own mobile telephone, and have been trained 

to be aware of the risks when working on-site, sometimes alone. Written risk 

assessments are prepared for all project work, event, etc undertaken by staff on 

site. 

• Public safety 

Ecclesall Woods has a very good record on public safety, with very low numbers of 

reported or serious incidents, as evidenced by the visitor survey in 2006 (refer to 

Appendix 8). The situation will continue to be monitored and review and action 

taken as appropriate 

44

Dogs 

• Policies 

Dog walkers are some of the most frequent visitors to Ecclesall Woods and 

Sheffield City Council welcomes and actively promotes responsible dog ownership. 

It is pleasing to report that the majority of dog owners in Sheffield do act 

responsibly. Nevertheless, the 2006 visitor questionnaire and other recent 

consultation has highlighted a demand for strategically places dog bins at several 

primary entrances, and this is included in the work programme for 2007-08. 

SCC Animal Wardens have provided polite notices at primary entrances to 

encourage responsible dog walking. 

The situation with regard to dog-fouling in the woodland is monitored during routine 

visits and will be reviewed as appropriate. 

1.5 Sustainability 

Environmental sustainability 

Environmental sustainability is a key driver influencing management of the site. 

In terms of wider sustainable management, the current Sheffield City Council 

Environmental Policy will be adhered to (refer to Appendix 6A). This builds on 

policies related to the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, EMAS (refer to 

Appendix 5B). Parks and Countryside staff were given training on EMAS in 2000. 

P and C was EMAS audited in 2002, scoring well, but with some room for 

improvement. The latter is currently under investigation and development. 

Local Agenda 21 and the Sheffield Environment Strategy are covered in Section 

1.1.5 above. 

All Sheffield City Council woodlands, included this site, are certified as meeting 

Forest Stewardship Council standards of sustainable woodland management. 

Finally, all of the tenants based at the sawmill work place sustainability at the heart 

of their business, utilising locally grown timber and other resources. 

Pesticide, peat use and other materials used on site 

Pesticide use within Ecclesall Woods is very limited, only occurring for maintenance 

reasons within Limb Lane car park. Herbicide is used to kill the cut stumps of 

Rhododendron and Japanese Knotweed, as part of removal regimes. All use 

follows the Forestry Commission’s Use of Herbicides in the Forest Field Book 

(1995). At all times, use of such chemicals is kept to a minimum, and in keeping 

with the Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986 and other associated legislation 

and best practice guidance. Please refer to Appendix 6C for P and C’s overall 

policy approach to pesticide use. 

45

It is Sheffield City Council policy not to buy or use peat based products (refer to 

Appendix 6D). 

Where possible, woodland benches erected within the woodland are sourced from 

locally grown timber, usually from approved felling works within the woodland itself. 

Other wooden materials required for bridge repairs (sleepers), waymarking posts, 

wooden gates, etc is purchased from sustainably managed sources, ideally 

meeting Forest Stewardship Council certification standards. 

Path repairs are implemented using clean crushed brick and brick dust supplied by 

local demolition companies, following guidance from the Public Rights of Way Unit, 

Highway Services, reducing pressure on the local landscape by reducing demand 

for raw materials from local quarries. 

Waste minimisation 

Very little waste is produced from the management of Ecclesall Woods, with the 

possible exception of tree-related maintenance and management. During routine 

small-scale tree-maintenance operations arisings are normally cut into small 

lengths, stacked neatly and allowed to rot down as wildlife habitat. However, where 

considerable health and safety work is required the material is either chipped and 

spread on site away from sensitive vegetation, etc or in the case of large volumes 

of chips, removed to the sawmill site for composting and then sold to the public. 

During major thinning and felling operations, harvestable timber will be sold and 

removed to help off-set the costs of operations and to make good use of this 

renewable resource. At the same time, standing and fallen deadwood is 

deliberately retained and created during associated operations. 

1.6 Marketing 

The SCC Media Team supports the marketing and promotion of Ecclesall Woods. 

An officer within that team deals with all media and public relations relating to the 

whole Parks and Countryside Service. Ecclesall Woods are also marketed through 

the Corporate public relations team and the city tourist venues as one of Sheffield’s 

top attractions. 

• The Parks and Countryside Service Outdoor Events Team manage all large events 

on an individual basis. Smaller events are managed by the Trees and Woodlands 

Section with the Ranger Service, and partners such as the Friends group. 

• Events are advertised in a Ranger Events leaflet published twice a year, updated 

regularly on the Parks and Countryside Service web page 

The following is just a few examples of information used to promote the site: 

• Website Links 

Examples: 

Sheffield City Council Ecclesall Woods website 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/trees-woodlands/ecclesall-woods 

46

South Yorkshire Forest Partnership and related web pages (like Green Sites) 

http://www.syforest.co.uk/ 

Working Woodlands Ltd 

http://www.workingwoodlands.info/ 

http://www.workingwoodlandsproducts.co.uk/ 

• Printed materials 

Two leaflets on the site – A Seasonal Walk Around Ecclesall Woods, and a selfguided 

Archaeological Trial are available from the shop and gallery at the sawmill 

site. In addition, they can be picked up from the P and C Head Office at 

Meersbrook Park. 

Both are also available as downloads through the City Council Ecclesall Woods 

website (listed above) 

In addition, the Friends of Ecclesall Woods produce a newsletter for its members 3- 

4 times a year, whilst the Dore Village Society’s newsletters “Dore to Dore” and the 

“Bradway Bugle” regularly carry articles concerning the woodland and sawmill from 

Parks. Both are distributed to thousands of households in the Dore and Beauchief 

area. 

In 2006 an education pack was developed for the site by FEW with help from the 

South Yorkshire Forest Partnership and Parks and Countryside. This is available at: 

http://www.heritagewoodsonline.co.uk/1. Introduction and History.pdf 

FEW published Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield: a Flora, in 2006. This is available 

through FEW, at the sawmill site shop and the Meersbrook Park head office. 

Sheffield Hallam University have published various books and conference 

proceedings either on or related to Ecclesall Woods which are available to buy 

through: 

http://www.wildtrackpublishing.co.uk/pubcns.htm 

• Site Management 

All major or potentially contentious management works and projects are promoted 

through site information notices, public meetings, press and radio coverage, letters 

to Ward Members, the Area Panel and local residents, and through local 

newsletters, as appropriate. FEW and the Dore Village Society are also kept 

informed either verbally or in writing. Nevertheless, all major works are discussed 

with these groups prior to implementation. Obviously preparation of this 

management plan has created a large amount of additional promotion for the 

woodland and allowed users to have a much greater say in how it is cared and 

managed for. 

• Council staff and contractors 

47

The Southern Ranger Team undertake a range of small-scale maintenance and 

management projects across the site as well as delivering events, etc. Together 

with staff within the Trees and Woodlands Section, the Rangers are the most 

frequent SCC presence within the woodland. All Rangers have an identifiable 

uniform and vehicles, and have been provided training on how to answer and 

respond constructively to enquiries from site users about associated issues. 

Similarly, staff within Street Force use corporately marked vehicles. Whilst staff 

within the Trees and Woodlands Section do not have a corporate uniform, those 

regularly involved in the woodland are well-known to regular visitors and are happy 

to deal with comments, etc raised whilst on site. 

All SCC staff involved in maintaining the site are aware of the Council’s Corporate 

Code of Conduct which details a constructive approach to comments, complaints 

and feedback from visitors (refer to Appendix 7 for more detail). 

Similarly, contractors employed by Parks and Countryside to deliver management 

projects are provided guidance, prior to the start of works, on how to respond 

positively to enquiries from visitors and local residents. 

48

SECTION 2: VISION 

The following vision for Ecclesall Woods has been agreed: 

“To conserve and encourage the recreational, landscape, spiritual, environmental 

and heritage value of Ecclesall Woods, whilst promoting its sustainable use, 

understanding and enjoyment by the local and wider community” 

SECTION 3: MANAGEMENT AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 

3.1 Aims and Objectives of management 

Based on the above site based information and its evaluation, together with City 

Council, regional and national policy (Section 1.1.5) the Aims and Objectives for 

Ecclesall Woods are set out below (Section 4 contains detailed annual 

maintenance works and annual work programmes which flow from these). 

Aim 1 Recreation and Access 

To provide for safe, welcoming, co-ordinated and sustainable public access, leisure 

and tourism 

Objectives 

• To continue to regenerate the sawmill site to provide improved visitor facilities, a 

centre for sustainable timber industries and a “gateway” for education, interpretative 

and training programmes associated with the woodland and its heritage in keeping 

with the themes developed in the 2004 feasibility study 

• To continue to gradually improve and maintain the definitive rights of way network, 

including associated access structures, signposting, and associated trails like the 

Sheffield Round Walk and Easy Going Trail, complying with the Disability 

Discrimination Act regulations 

• To implement the proposed additions to the definitive network within the woodland, 

subject to proper assessment and consideration of the impact on site heritage 

interests 

• In conjunction with Highway Services to improve the pedestrian links between the 

sawmill site and the woodland, and across Abbey Lane between Woods 2 and 3 

• To discourage informal paths where they are seriously compromising the 

woodlands’ heritage interests 

• To maintain and where necessary improve the seating facilities 

• To provide improved car parking facilities within the sawmill site 

• To provide full-time public toilet facilities at the sawmill site 

• To remove fly-tipping as soon as possible, and to undertake regular litter 

clearances along the woodland roadside margins and elsewhere as required 

49

• To patrol and monitor the woodland as resources allow 

• To undertake an annual risk assessment of all structures, buildings, etc 

• To undertake a risk assessment of all trees close to primary definitive and 

recognised routes and formal access points every three years, and those next to 

secondary routes every five years. Trees next to the highway will be inspected 

annually. Associated remedial work will undertaken as identified 

• To respond positively and quickly to public complaints and enquiries, and ensure 

that the City Council’s public complaints and feedback procedure is adhered to as 

appropriate 

• To continue to market Ecclesall Woods and its developing facilities as a major 

visitor destination in Sheffield 

• To maintain Green Flag status for Ecclesall Woods 

Aim 2 Biodiversity 

To conserve and encourage the semi-natural characteristics of the varied habitats 

found within the site and their associated wildlife in accordance with the UK and 

Sheffield Biodiversity Action Plans, maintaining or increasing populations of Key 

species, and the extent and quality of Key Habitats 

Objectives 

• To encourage the predominantly semi-natural vegetation communities present 

during all habitat management, in turn benefiting associated flora and fauna 

• To implement as appropriate specific management to maintain or increase 

populations of the UK BAP Short and Middle-listed species, and Local BAP species 

recorded at the site in the last 20 years 

• To implement as appropriate, specific management to maintain or increase the 

extent and quality of the UK BAP priority habitat “wet woodland”. 

• To protect and encourage the resident Badger population in partnership with the 

South Yorkshire Badger Group and in accordance with best practice as outlined in 

Forests Operations and Badger Setts (Forestry Commission, 1996) 

• To retain standing and fallen deadwood wherever possible, including 

representatives of each of the species found on the site if possible, promoting 

associated fungi, invertebrates, hole-nesting birds, and bats 

• To organise bat surveys of all areas where mature tree-felling is proposed, to 

ensure that no roosts are destroyed and that the interests of bats are incorporated 

into all management implementation, in liaison with Sheffield Bat Group 

• To continue the conservation management approach to the management of the 

small meadow to the immediate north-west of the bird sanctuary (Compartment 

116h), through a programme of annual grass cutting during September/October. 

50

Some limited scrub control will be undertaken to keep it open. However, it is 

important that a variety of grassland conditions are maintained, particularly for 

specialist invertebrates requiring rank, grassy tussocks. As such, a proportion of 

the grassland will be left permanently uncut. 

• To maintain the bird sanctuary as a quiet haven for wildlife where public access is 

discouraged and management is minimal. 

• To continue an annual Common Bird Census across the bird sanctuary and Wood 

2 allowing comparison with areas where recreation is and is not encouraged, and to 

help monitoring the general health of the site’s bird population. 

• To maintain support for local naturalists and the wider community who visit and 

record the nature conservation interest of the site 

• To continue to control and reduce the extent of the invasive introduced species 

Rhododendron, Cherry Laurel, Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed 

• To maintain and protect the site’s Local Nature Reserve status 

• To monitor the effects of all habitat management whenever possible, reviewing and 

revising management strategies as appropriate. 

Additional guidance 

Song Thrush, Bullfinch, Spotted Flycatcher, Pipistrelle Bat, White-clawed Crayfish 

and Water Vole are all UK BAP Key priority species recorded from the woodland. 

The following specific management work is planned: 

Song Thrush - proposed silvicultural management will increase the amount of 

ephemeral open space within the site, and promote greater structural and shrub 

species diversity, benefiting this species. Bullfinch will also benefit from these 

proposals. 

Spotted Flycatcher prefers open canopy, mature woodland, with open glades and 

tree falls. The proposed thinning works within mature stands will benefit this 

species. 

Pipistrelle Bat favours the glades within the woodland, as well as woodland edges. 

The proposed thinning works and coppice management will provide a continued 

supply of new glades, whilst the rough grassland and scrub to the north-west of the 

bird sanctuary and along the western margins of the site, as well as adjoining 

residential gardens, will continue to provide the important feeding zones. 

White-clawed Crayfish required proper survey to assess better its presence and 

distribution, and associated management recommendations. 

Water Vole may still be present within the site, but its status is unclear. A field 

survey will be undertaken to assess its status, with associated recommendations. 

Grass Snake is included in the Sheffield BAP, and is present at the sawmill site. 

Work will be undertaken to assess the size of the grass snake population and take 

appropriate action to protect and encourage it further 

51

Rhododendron (and Cherry Laurel) is currently restricted primarily to parts of the 

bird sanctuary, where extensive areas are present. A 10 year programme of 

removal is programmed through a combination of cutting and herbicide stump 

treatment. Replacement vegetation will be encouraged through natural processes 

rather than planting. 

Himalayan Balsam will continue to be reduced by annual hand pulling, whilst areas 

of Japanese Knotweed will be removed through herbicide use. 

Aim 3 Archaeological and historic interest 

To protect and conserve features of archaeological and historic interest, and 

provide appropriate interpretation 

Objectives 

• To preserve and to take account of all known archaeological and historic features 

during management and maintenance operations. Where necessary, this may 

include archaeological investigation of features to assess the archaeological 

implications of proposals 

• To undertake appropriate management where necessary to protect known features 

from damage associated with recreational use, tree growth, etc. 

• To facilitate further research into, and understanding of, the woodland's 

archaeological and historic interest in partnership with the South Yorkshire 

Archaeology Service and the wider community 

• To assess the levels of significance of particular monument types, identifying the 

most important examples, and consider these for Scheduling as appropriate 

• To develop additional associated interpretative materials, and more strongly 

incorporate the cultural heritage of the woodland into education, interpretation and 

training programmes, as well as continuing and expanding community archaeology 

projects 


(a) Prior to all major management activities, for example thinning or path 

improvements, consultation and/or a site visit with the South Yorkshire Archaeology 

Service (SYAS) will be undertaken as required to pinpoint features of interest and 

determine any necessary precautions. In all cases the GIS database of the site’s 

archaeological interest and the County Sites and Monument Register will be 

referred to as a baseline management tool. 

(b) Where archaeological interest is suspected but unconfirmed, appropriate 

archaeological fieldwork will be undertaken during or in advance of management 

works following consultation with SYAS, and operations reviewed and reconsidered 

as necessary. 

(c) Management activities will be planned and executed to avoid disturbance to 

archaeological features. Felling of trees, particularly mature individuals, directly 

onto areas of archaeological interest will be avoided whenever possible, and all 

extraction routes will be kept away from features of interest. If trees on an 

52

archaeological feature are being felled damage will be minimised by techniques 

such as brash matting and working in dry conditions. Prior to major management 

works, sites of interest within the immediate vicinity of/close to the work area will be 

marked out with hazard warning tape, etc as appropriate, and all those involved in 

the operations informed of areas/features of archaeological importance. 

(d) Where necessary, trees felled on or close to features of importance will be winched 

from the immediate area to reduce vehicular damage, whilst the use of draught 

horses will be considered in the most sensitive cases 

(e) Scheduled and other significant archaeological sites will be regularly monitored to 

observe any management problems that may arise. This will be organised in 

consultation with SYAS. 

(f) Appropriate archaeological training of Council staff, particularly Rangers, with 

constant involvement at the site will be continued, to improve their ability to 

recognise archaeological features they come across in the course of their work, to 

help inform management works and reduce the potential for damage and 

disturbance, whilst increasing their interpretative knowledge. 

(g) Two types of further descriptive and investigative work are also proposed: 

• Filling in blank areas within the existing surveys 

• More detailed surveys of features recorded in the existing surveys 

There is substantial opportunity for members of the community to participate 

in the above through “community archaeology” projects, led by a suitably qualified 

and experienced archaeologist, and undertaken and monitored in consultation 

with SYAS. 

Aim 4 Woodland Management 

Through appropriate management, to promote a diverse high-forest woodland 

structure characterised predominantly by semi-natural vegetation communities, 

whilst recognising the value of introduced species such as Beech and Sweet 

Chestnut. 

Objectives 

• To manage the majority of the mixed Oak, Beech and Sweet Chestnut woodland of 

Ecclesall Woods by small-scale, piecemeal light thinning on a rotation of at least 

150 years, promoting uneven-aged woodland and a diversity of species, structure 

and habitats. 

• To manage the areas of recent plantations around the Limb Lane picnic area and 

Whirlow playing fields by periodic thinning, encouraging native species where 

possible 

• To continue to promote coppice-with standards management to the demonstration 

area off Cow Lane, Wood 1 

• In general, to favour native tree and shrub species typical of the ancient seminatural 

communities found within the site during all operations. However, where 

53

introduced species now form a characteristic part of the woodland amenity, a 

proportion will also be promoted 

• To promote and utilise natural regeneration whenever possible in providing new 

trees maintaining the genetic integrity of native species, so far as is practicable. 

Otherwise to use plants of local provenance and preferably from semi-natural 

parent trees 

• To protect and maintain minimum intervention areas including the bird sanctuary, 

wet flushes, areas adjoining streamsides, and drainage ditches. 

• To employ operational methods which avoid excessive disturbance to the site 

• To identify opportunities for enlarging the existing area of woodland, especially 

where this would provide links to other nearby ancient woodlands, as long as this 

would not compromise other interests, for example, where it would result in the loss 

of other valuable semi-natural habitats 


(a) Where possible all thinning operations will be positioned where advance 

regeneration capable of responding to increased light levels is already present. 

Natural regeneration will be the main method of providing new trees. Planting will 

only be considered if natural regeneration fails to appear some 3-5 years after 

canopy opening, and then only using plants of local provenance, preferably from 

semi-natural parent trees 

Areas of regeneration will require periodic respacing to ensure that an appropriate 

mix of species is encouraged and to promote healthy crown development. 

All operations will favour the locally native tree and shrub species present within the 

existing stands and will in general, encourage a greater proportion of native species 

in the long-term. However, it is recognised that various introduced species form a 

characteristic or important element of many parts of the woodland, in particular 

Beech, and Sweet Chestnut, and in such situations, a proportion will be 

encouraged during thinning and respacing works. In the long-term, a greater mix of 

native and introduced species will be retained where the latter is currently 

dominant. 

All thinning operations will retain representatives of all the species of locally native 

trees and shrubs present within the particular stand, use variation of thinning 

intensity to maintain varied conditions, and maintain and encourage an understorey 

and shrub layer in more mature stands, and use low impact methods for timber 

harvesting and avoid excessive disturbance and compaction. Small-scale working 

will be the norm. 

(b) Apart from providing wildlife habitat, old trees and deadwood can have 

considerable intrinsic appeal and add diversity to the woodland structure. 

For these reasons, a proportion of trees will be retained indefinitely throughout the 

site and allowed to develop to over-maturity and natural senescence. Similarly, a 

proportion of mis-shapen trees will be retained during all silvicultural operations. 

54

The trees chosen will generally be away from definitive routes and well-used, 

casual paths and formal access points. 

Where possible, deadwood, both standing and fallen, will be left where it is to 

undergo natural decay processes. Large diameter timber is particularly valuable 

and will be left uncut where possible. If possible, representatives of each of the 

native species found in the woodlands will be utilised. 

A proportion of timber arising from agreed silvicultural operations will be left 

in-situ for similar reasons. 

(c) Climate change predictions and the suggested impact on woodlands will inform ongoing 

management of the site, with reference to the latest research and guidance 

from the Forestry Commission and others. 

Aim 5 Landscape 

To maintain and protect the landscape value of the woodland 

Objectives 

• To promote predominantly native broadleaved tree and shrub species typical of the 

Coal Measures Natural Area during all silvicultural operations, whilst recognising 

the contribution of species introduced to the site amenity. 

• To minimise the landscape impact of felling and regeneration works. 

• To maintain screening of obtrusive features crossing and adjoining the site, for 

example, Abbeydale Road South. 


Management proposals include thinning and small-scale coppicing. The effects of 

these operations will be visible from some locations outside the woodland but the 

visual impact will be low. 

Some changes in the visual appearance of the woodland, especially from within, 

will occur as a result of thinning proposals. However, as generally only relatively 

small parts of the woodland will be affected at any one time, the impact of 

management operations will be minimised. Thinning works will be positioned so 

that, where possible, they are secluded from main views within and from outside 

the woodland. 

55

Aim 6 Community involvement and participation in site management 

To encourage community involvement in the management of the site and to 

facilitate community use of the woodland and its facilities 

Objectives 

• To consult and involve the local community, the South West Area Panel, specialist 

interest and stakeholder groups during the implementation of the management plan 

• To continue to support stakeholder groups such as the Friends of Ecclesall Woods, 

Working Woodlands Ltd, and Ruskin Mill Educational Trust and strengthen related 

partnerships. To encourage opportunities for joint working and projects wherever 

possible 

• To continue to support the Friends of Ecclesall Woods and other community groups 

and partners undertaking activities / events / meetings within the woodland and 

sawmill site 

• To facilitate management advisory and subgroups to inform and improve 

management of the site and its facilities 

• To regularly review and monitor visitor perceptions of the site and its management, 

and take on board associated recommendations as appropriate 

• To increase volunteer involvement in the site’s management through an 

annual programme developed and delivered by the Ranger Service and other 

partners 

• To continue to encourage the local community and other site visitors to report any 

concerns or problems at the site, acting as the "eyes and ears" of the Council. 

Aim 7 Education, interpretation and training 

To maximise the educational, interpretative and training potential of the woodland 

and sawmill site 

Objectives 

• To maintain a wide-ranging programme of environmental, cultural and interpretative 

events and activities through the Ranger Service and others 

• To maintain and update as necessary the site based leaflets, education pack and 

other interpretative materials 

• To provide support and facilitate a range of partnership / community led events that 

use the site facilities and landscape 

• To support the Freeman College (Ruskin Mill Educational Trust) “woodland camp” 

within Wood 3 and facilitate its educational, interpretative and training potential for 

the wider community where appropriate 

56

• To review the current interpretation panels and develop and install improved 

interpretation over the plan period, particularly with regard to heritage interests 

• To continue to support research opportunities within and centred-on the woodland 

• To continue to advocate for the development of a site-dedicated, site-based Ranger 

Team to help deliver both management and interpretation and education projects 

and programmes 

• To aspire to promote Ecclesall Woods as an annual classroom based Key Stage 2 

topic for five schools, mixed or combined with a sustainable programme of Key 

Stage 2 visits to Ecclesall Woods for one year group from each of five schools 

• To promote increasing use of the woodland and sawmill site for associated training 

and personal development 

Aim 8 Maximising Resources and Revenue Generation 

To maximise income generation to offset expenditure without compromising the 

community use and heritage value of the woodland. 

Objectives 

• To foster and support the retail outlet and gallery for wood products at the sawmill 

site 

• To further develop partnership working with the businesses based at the sawmill 

site, including proposals to replace the existing workshop spaces with purpose built 

facilities 

• To manage the tenancy at wills at the sawmill site and the licence agreement with 

Freeman College according to good practice, with the support of Legal and 

Governance 

• To take appropriate opportunities to produce utilisable timber and maximise income 

from the sale of produce resulting from agreed silvicultural operations, subject to 

the other site interests 

• To investigate and develop a range of appropriate revenue generating opportunities 

in keeping with the woodland’s public use, and heritage value, and the growing role 

of the sawmill site as a location for wood-based businesses 

• To maximise sources of internal and external funding and other resources in 

partnership with stakeholders 

• To base all revenue and other resource management and generation upon sound 

business planning 

• To maintain and manage the site as an example of sustainability in action, by 

ensuring that the social and environmental impact of all operations are considered 

alongside the economic 

57

SECTION 4: MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION 

Please refer to Figure 4.1 

4.1 Annual maintenance work programme (Years 1-5) 

Key: 

TW - Trees and Woodlands Section, Park and Countryside Service 

RT – Southern Ranger Team, Parks and Countryside Service 

PC – Parks and Countryside Section, Parks and Countryside Service 

SF - Street Force 

Risk Assessment 

(1) Annual written risk assessment of all site infrastructure and all trees 

adjoining the highway. Associated action to be taken as necessary. 

Access 

Autumn/TW 

(2) Clean out all cross-drains on paths 

Spring and Autumn/RT 

Litter Management 

(3) Remove all litter from Limb Lane car park, litter bin and surrounding amenity 

grassland (prior to cutting). 

Weekly/SF (H) and PC 

(4) Sweep car parking bays on Abbey Lane and remove any associated litter. 

Twelve-weekly cycle/SF (C) 

(5) Other woodland boundaries. 

Every two months and as required/SF 

(6) Along recognised woodland paths, access points 

As required or every two months/SF and RT 

(7) Litter sweep around sawmill site 

Every week or as required/RT 

58

Grassland Management 

(8) Mow amenity grassland at Limb Lane car park site (compartment 116a) 

Every two weeks from the last week of March-first week April to the last 

week of September-first week of October/SF 

Vegetation Management 

(9) Assess which public paths and other recognised routes require strimming 

and cutting back of encroaching vegetation like bramble and undertake 

associated work 

Graffiti 

May and July/RT 

Any graffiti of an offensive nature will be removed as soon as possible, and in other 

instances within as short a period as possible. All incidents will be logged on the 

CONFIRM system. 

Vandalism 

Checks will be made for vandalism as part of routine visits, although vandalism is 

rare within the site. Unsafe structures, etc will be removed or made safe as soon as 

possible and repairs made soon afterwards. . All incidents will be logged on the 

CONFIRM 

59

4.2 Annual management work programme (Years 1-5) 

Key: 

TW - Trees and Woodlands Section, Park and Countryside Service 

RT – Southern Ranger Team, Parks and Countryside Service 

PC – Parks and Countryside Section, Parks and Countryside Service 

SF - Street Force 

SYAS – South Yorkshire Archaeology Service 

YEAR 1 

Recreation and Access 

(1) Secure 550m of boundary around the sawmill site with post and wire fencing, 

with associated access structures into the woodland 

Spring/Contractor 

(2) Formalise footpath links between the sawmill site and the woodland, 

following consultation with SYAS 

Spring/RT/SYAS 

(3) To re-surface the outstanding 50m section of bridleway by the concrete 

bridge over the Limb Brook (bridleway 246), and repair 200m of bridleway 

surface (bridleway 245), including more and higher cross drains to prevent 

water erosion. Look at options for further surfacing of bridleway 244 where it 

includes the stone tramway, to resolve drainage problems 

Summer/SYAS/Contractor 

(4) Upgrade the access structure from Cow Lane into Wood 1, to allow better 

access for those with disabilities 

Spring/RT 

(5) Undertake master planning with associated consultation, to move forward 

the vision for the sawmill site 

All Year/TW/Key stakeholders/Contractor 

(6) Liase with Highway Services to promote better crossings over Abbey Lane, 

between Woods 2 and 3 

60

All Year/TW/Highway Services 

(7) Undertake tree risk assessment and implement associated safety work along 

primary definitive and recognised routes and formal access points 

Autumn/TW/Contractor 

(8) Install dog bins at 5 primary sites entrances 

Spring/TW/Environmental and Regulatory Services 

Biodiversity 

(9) Undertake Water Vole survey of the woodland streams, and implement 

associated recommendations 


(10) Assess population of Grass snake at the sawmill site, and undertake any 

appropriate works to protect and promote the population 

Spring-Autumn/Contractor/RT 

Archaeology 

(11) Verify the status of the suggested prehistoric rock art within the bird 

sanctuary 

Autumn/SYAS/English Heritage 

Woodland Management 

(12) Re-space groups of pole-stage regeneration within compartment 114b 

(0.5ha), to promote a suitable mix of species 

Autumn/RT/Volunteers/Contractor 

(13) Re-space denser areas of pole-stage Ash, etc within margins of 

Compartment 116h (0.1ha) 

Autumn/RT/Volunteers 

Education, interpretation and training 

(14) Upgrade site-based interpretative panel information and install new one 

at the sawmill site. Provide interpretative information inside the new 

shop/gallery 

Spring/TW/Contractor 

(15) Upgrade “Seasonal walk through Ecclesall Woods leaflet” to include 

the sawmill site 

Spring/TW/Contractor 

61

Maximising Resources and Revenue Generation 

(16) Construct purpose built timber framed shop and gallery at the sawmill site 

YEAR 2 

Spring/Hector and Cedric/TW 


(1) Surface 100m of footpath from Endowood Road into Wood 2 

Summer/Contractor 

(2) Re-surface (new top surface) 125m of footpath (which runs below the 

sawmill site) from Abbey Lane towards bridleway 252 


(3) Provide new surface on footpath 255 (350m) 


(4) Undertake erosion control works along the footpath that runs from the 

Abbeydale Road South entrance towards Abbey Lane (and behind 

Sherwood Glen), Wood 3 


(5) Formalise footpath from Whirlow playing fields car park into Ecclesall Woods 

through Square Plantation, Wood 3, with associated waymarking. Undertake 

related tree safety work 

Spring/TW-RT/Contractor 

(6) Formalise footpath in Wood 3, which runs parallel to the Limb Brook 

between the two wooden bridges. Consult with SYAS on the exact 

route and undertake erosion control measures and any related tree 

safety works 

Biodiversity 

Summer/TW-RT/SYAS/Contractor 

(7) Undertake survey of White-clawed crayfish in the Limb Brook, and 

implement associated recommendations 

Spring-Summer/Contractor 

(8) Commission detailed NVC vegetation assessment of the site 


62

Archaeology and historic interest 

(9) Meet with SYAS and develop and implement erosion control approach to 

bridleway crossing Iron Age hillfort in Wood 3 

Spring-Autumn/TW/SYAS 

(10) In liaison with English Heritage and SYAS, to assess the levels of 

significance of particular monument types, and whether Scheduling is 

appropriate 

All Year/SYAS/English Heritage 


(11) Thin dense areas of pole-stage Oak-Birch woodland with Compartment 115a 

(approx. 2ha) 

Autumn/Contractor 

63

YEAR 3 


(1) Re-surface (new top surface) the 3 main footpaths (250m) from the Abbey 

Lane parking bays feeding bridleway 252 


(2) Re-surface (new top surface), footpath 283 (350m) 


(3) Investigate measures to improve drainage of footpath 249 (which partly runs 

along a holloway), in consultation with SYAS 

Spring-Summer/TW/SYAS 

(4) Install 15 new woodland benches across the site 

Autumn/RT 

Biodiversity 

(5) Undertake targeted invertebrate survey 

Summer/Ecology Unit/Contractor 

Archaeology 

(6) Commission a topographic survey of the enclosures north of 

Whirlowdale Road/west of Cow Lane, in Wood 1, 

Winter/SYAS/Community archaeologist 


(7) Thin Compartment 116b (1.6ha) to favour best-formed, native species where 

present 

Winter/Contractor 

64

YEAR 4 


(1) Re-surface (new top surface) the bridleway 241, Wood 2 (700m) 

Biodiversity 


(2) Undertake targeted fungal survey 

Autumn/Ecology Unit/Contractor 

Archaeology 

(3) Commission a topographic and condition survey of Ryecroft mill and dam, 

and implement recommendations as appropriate 

Winter/SYAS/Archaeological contractor 


(4) Thin 1970’s plantation of mixed broadleaves and conifers within 

compartment 116a (0.7ha) to favour best-formed, native species where 

present 

Winter/Contractor 

Community involvement and participation in site management 

(5) To undertake a on-site new visitor survey 

Spring-Summer/Contractor 

65

YEAR 5 


(1) Re-surface (new top surface) footpath 244, Wood 1 (900m) 

Biodiversity 


(2) Undertake targeted lichen survey 

Spring-Summer/Ecology Unit/Contractor 

Archaeology 

(3) Commission a topographic survey of the probable field system present to the 

east of the Limb Brook, in Wood 3 which is potentially prehistoric, Romano- 

British or medieval 

Winter/SYAS/Community archaeologist 

66

4.3 Recurring annual management tasks 

Biodiversity 

(1) Commission Common Bird Census of bird sanctuary and Wood 2 


(2) Wildlife cut of meadow (compartment 116h) 

Sept-Oct/RT 

(3) Control, removal and gradual eradication of Himalayan Balsalm, Japanese 

Knotweed and Rhododendron 

Spring-Autumn/RT/Contractors 

Woodland management 

(4) Monitor coppice demonstration area (compartment 115d), cutting back 

encroaching vegetation, etc as necessary 

Summer-Autumn/RT-TW 

Community Involvement and Participation 

(5) Consult and inform the local community and other Key stakeholders of 

major management works or proposals 

As required/TW and key stakeholders 

(6) Develop and deliver an annual programme to encourage regular 

volunteer involvement in the site, involving and supporting the Friends of 

Ecclesall Woods and other partners from the voluntary sector wherever 

possible 

All Year/TW-RT and key stakeholders 

Education, interpretation and training 

(7) Develop and deliver an annual programme of recreation, education 

and interpretative activities and events, including associated marketing 

All Year/TW-RT and key stakeholders 

67

SECTION 5: FINANCIAL STATEMENT 

5.1 Financial forecast 2007-2011 

5.1.1 Anticipated Expenditure 

It should be noted that these figures do not include the potential costs of fully 

regenerating the sawmill site as the process toward achieving this is at an early 

stage. As this process progresses, further detail will be added to this document, 

assuming the associated resources can be secured. 

Proposed Activity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 


Master planning for sawmill 

site 

30000 15000 

Rights of way 

improvements 

3000 6000 6000 7000 9000 

Boundary/access point 

improvements 

3500 

Install new benches 500 

Car park improvements at 2000 

sawmill 

Install dog bins 

Biodiversity 

1500 

Specialist species surveys 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 

Annual Common Bird 

Census 

300 300 300 300 300 

Comprehensive NVC 

survey 

5000 

Control of invasive species 1200 1200 1200 1200 1200 

Archaeology 

Specific feature survey and 

assessment 

Assessment of feature 

significance 

500 500 3500 3500 4000 

1500 


Thinning 500 3000 1200 800 

Coppice management 

Community Involvement 

1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 

Commission visitor survey 

Education and 

Interpretation 

4000 

Upgrade Interpretative 

signage 

2000 

Upgrade “Seasonal walk” 1500 

interpretative leaflet 

Provide annual programme 

of educational and 

interpretative events, etc 

Maximising Resources 

and Revenue 

3000 3000 3000 3000 3000 

68

Proposed Activity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 

Construct purpose built 

shop and gallery at sawmill 

site 

50000 

Pre-planned maintenance 

Pre-planned Maintenance 

costs (litter collection, 

grassland management, 

etc) 

4000 4000 4000 4000 4000 

TOTALS 105000 41500 21700 25800 23500 

5.1.2 Anticipated external income 

Source Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 

European Objective 1 

(Forestry Resources Grant) 

40000 

Forestry Commission 

EWGS Woodland 

Management Grant 

4200 4200 4200 4200 4200 

Hector and Cedric Ltd 

(contribution to costs of 

new shop/gallery) 

25000 

Rentals from sawmill site 6000 11000 11000 11000 11000 

TOTALS 75200 15200 15200 15200 15200 

5.2 Current and future sources of funding 

Parks and Countryside have a long and successful history of using a partnership 

approach to help develop and develop projects. The growing partnerships at 

Ecclesall Woods, particularly those associated with the sawmill site, the Friends of 

Ecclesall Woods and Dore Village Society, South Yorkshire Forest Partnership, and 

Ruskin Mill Educational Trust present a range of opportunities to meet the 

aspirations for the site and the communities it serves. 

• Forestry Commission England Woodland Grant Scheme (EWGS) 

Ecclesall Woods was entered into the new EWGS for Woodland Management 

Grant in 2007, and funding is secured for five years. These monies contribute 

toward the management and maintenance costs of access, recreation, and 

biodiversity. 

Further applications for Woodland Improvement Grants towards proposed path 

improvements, the control of invasive species, etc will be made in due course. 

• Natural England 

Natural England brings together English Nature, the Countryside Agency and the 

Rural Development Service, and was established in 2006. 

69

At present, Natural England has not released details of its planned grant aid 

packages. However, it is likely that the many benefits Ecclesall Woods brings will 

enable the site to access future funding programmes. 

• Lottery Funds 

Ecclesall Woods is a valuable site for biodiversity, and its archaeology 

interest in particular. The Heritage Lottery Fund have visited the woodland and 

demonstrated a clear positive interest. As such, the site is included on the Parks 

and Countryside three-year HLF bidding programme (2006-09). 

Other potential sources of associated grant aid include the Big Lottery Fund, which 

offers much potential for the sawmill site itself. The strong social enterprise nature 

of the project here provides a strong “hook” for related bids. 

• European Objective 1 

Objective 1 is a source of major European funding aimed at the social and 

economic regeneration of disadvantaged areas. In 1999, South Yorkshire qualified 

for this funding regime. In early 2001, the South Yorkshire Forest Partnership were 

successful in attracting nearly £4 million of Objective 1 monies to grant to others for 

the planting of new woodland, the improvement of existing woodland, and 

harvesting and marketing initiatives associated with wood products. The last of the 

funding must be claimed by the end of April 2008. However, there is some potential 

that further “transitional” funding may follow this. 

Since 2001, considerable Objective 1 monies have been attracted to Ecclesall 

Woods, for both physical site improvements, and feasibility work such as the initial 

feasibility study on the sawmill site in 2004. Further funding is secured towards the 

master planning work on the sawmill site, and through one of the site tenants 

(Hector and Cedric), for the proposed new shop/gallery. 

Where possible, further Objective 1 monies will be sought over the remainder of the 

funding programme. 

• South Yorkshire Forest Partnership 

The South Yorkshire Forest Partnership (SYFP) is a major partner in the 

developing sawmill site project, and has helped Parks and Countryside access 

considerable funding for both this and the woodland since 2001. Parks and 

Countryside will continue to work closely with SYFP to explore future related 

funding packages and opportunities. 

• Yorkshire Forward 

Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency for Yorkshire and 

Humberside. It has shown interest in part-funding the planned workshops for the 

sawmill site. This and other opportunities will be explored more fully as the master 

planning process proceeds. 

70

• Section 106 monies 

The woodland has benefited from considerable allocations of Section 106 monies 

since 2001, especially towards access improvements. Parks and Countryside will 

continue to work closely with the South West Area Panel to maximise the related 

benefits to the woodland. 

• Other Funding 

Other sources of funding will be explored wherever possible. For example, the 

Friends of Ecclesall Woods are currently applying for “Landfill Tax” monies to fund 

planned path improvements. 

71

SECTION 6: RESEARCH, MONITORING AND REVIEW 

6.1 Research 

A considerable amount of research into various aspects of Ecclesall Woods has 

been undertaken by a variety of organisations and individuals. Where possible, 

research into the many values of the woodland will be encouraged and supported, 

although, priority will be given to those initiatives which help in monitoring the 

progress of the management plan implementation programme, and answer other 

critical issues which need to be addressed, and so inform future management 

requirements. Broad areas for further research of particular benefit to the site’s 

management include: 

• The perceptions of the site by the community through continuing visitor surveys; 

• Investigation and assessment of known or suspected archaeological features in 

accordance with Bevan (2001), and assessment of their significance against 

English Heritage criteria; 

• The effects of habitat management; and 

• species distribution of Key fauna and flora, particularly those included in the UK 

BAP short-list of priority species. 

6.2 Monitoring 

To effectively assess the planned benefits of the various management works 

proposed, a monitoring programme is proposed: 

Habitat Management 

• A “before” and “after” photographic record will be kept during all major management 

works. 

• As required, flora and fauna surveys of these areas where management works are 

concentrated will be undertaken, again to help to quantify/identify the proposed 

benefits. 

• An annual Common Bird Census will continue within the bird sanctuary (minimal 

intervention) and Wood 2 where a modest programme of management is proposed 

over the plan period. As birds are “keystone” biodiversity indicators, the census 

will provide valuable broad information on the effects on the management 

proposals. 

Archaeology 

Monitoring of archaeological features is comprehensively covered in the additional 

guidance for Aim 3, in Section 3. 

72

Health and Safety 

The safety of trees and other structures within the site will be assessed as outlined 

in the objectives of Aim 1, in Section 3 

Other Matters 

Routine visits will inevitably identify unpredictable issues and concerns that need 

addressing as they arise, such as litter, vandalism, the unrecorded presence of new 

species of importance etc. This information will be fed into the CONFIRM system 

and maintenance and management work programmes as appropriate. 

6.3 Review 

This Management Plan forms an active agenda for managers and employees to 

implement appropriate management techniques and methods to ensure the 

continued success and sustainable future for Ecclesall Woods 

This management plan is not intended to be inflexible. It will be appropriately 

adapted to accommodate any new information, altering circumstances, pressures, 

trends and processes whenever they arise. 

Progress will be kept under active review throughout the course of each year of 

implementation via regular monitoring at meetings and discussions within Parks 

and Countryside and with other deliverers and stakeholders. The progress of the 

plan will be reviewed at the beginning of each successive financial year and 

adjustments made to the coming year’s work programme as required. Overall, this 

approach will ensure that the woodland and the benefits it provide continue to meet 

users needs whilst ensuring protection and where appropriate enhancement of the 

woodland’s rich heritage. 

The development of the plan will be fully reviewed at the end of the current fiveyear 

period in 2011. 

73

APPENDICES 

Appendix 1 Detailed Compartment Descriptions 

Appendix 2 Byelaws covering Ecclesall Woods 

Appendix 3 Flora and Fauna Species Lists 

Appendix 4 Events Policy 

Appendix 5A DEL Health and Safety Policy 

Appendix 5B Customer Enquiry System 

Appendix 5C Procedure for dealing with anti-social behaviour 

Appendix 5D PC Safe System of Work for removal of needles 

and syringes 

Appendix 6A SCC Environmental Policy 

Appendix 6B EMAS 

Appendix 6C PC Pesticide Policy 

Appendix 6D SCC Policy on the Use of Peat 

Appendix 7 SCC Corporate Code of Conduct 

Appendix 8A 2006 visitor questionnaire 

Appendix 8B 2006 visitor questionnaire technical appendices 

Appendix 9 Chronology of Ecclesall Woods 

Appendix 10 Bibliography 

Ecclesall Woods Management Plan Appendices Page 1

APPENDIX 1 

Detailed Compartment Descriptions 

Wood 2 24.6 ha in total 

Sub-Compartment 114a - 15.3 ha 

This extensive and varied area is typified by an open canopy of frequent to 

occasional mature Scots Pine and European Larch intermixed with mature well- 

crowned Oak. Other mature broadleaves are rare but include Sweet Chestnut and 

Beech. 

This overlays a sub-canopy of 25-40 year old, pole-stage Silver Birch (Oak, Yew, 

Rowan and Sweet Chestnut), which in places with few mature trees, is dominant. 

This has developed following extensive storm damage in the early 1960s. The shrub 

layer is sparse, but includes Holly, and occasional Hazel. 

The field layer is characterised by Bramble, (and Bracken), over locally abundant 

Bluebell, Soft Creeping-grass, and Broad Buckler Fern, with occasional Wood 

Anemone. 

Flush lines along streams and drainage channels support Alder, and Hazel, over a 

more diverse field layer. 

The south-eastern third of this sub-compartment was thinned in 2001. 

Sub-Compartment 114b - 6.4 ha 

Dominated by well-spaced, large-crowned mature Beech trees with a concentration 

of over-mature (150 years+) trees near Whirlowdale Road. These are intermixed 

with occasional mature European Larch, Oak and Sweet Chestnut. 

Pole-stage, 25-40 year old Silver Birch dominated natural regeneration (with Beech, 

Rowan and Oak) occurs here and there as a sub-canopy, where the Beech stand is 

more open. 

Throughout much of the stand, bare ground is dominant because of the closed 

canopy above, although young advanced Beech regeneration is locally frequent, 

though suppressed. Holly forms the dominant species of a poorly-developed shrub 

layer. 

In recent year, safety work on several of the large Beech has created a number of 

glades which are gradually infilling with mixed broad-leaved regeneration, dominated 

by Silver Birch and Beech, as well as Goat Willow, amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 114c – 2.9 ha 

Characterised by a mixed, fairly closed canopy of 100 year old, Oak, Scots Pine, 

European Larch (Sweet Chestnut and Norway Spruce). A few over-mature Pine are 


also present here and there. 

Pole-stage, 25-40 year old Silver Birch (Rowan, Oak and Yew) form an uneven sub- 

canopy, filling more open areas of the mature canopy. 


Sub-Compartment 115a – 24.0 ha 

This extensive block is characterised by a varied, 20-70% closed canopy of often 

large-crowned, 100+ year old Sessile Oak, with frequent Sweet Chestnut. Other 

occasional mature canopy species include Scots Pine, European Larch, (and 

Beech). This is infilled by frequently dense, 25-40 year old Birch dominated natural 

regeneration, with Wild Cherry, Sweet Chestnut, Oak, Rowan, Beech and 

Hornbeam. Bracken glades occur here and there with occasional Holly (Hazel and 

Hawthorn) forming an open shrub layer. The field layer is typified by Soft Creepinggrass, 

Bramble and Bracken with Bluebell and Honeysuckle. The flush lines and 

streams crossing the area support Alder (and Ash) with a diverse field layer. 

Sub-Compartment 115b - 0.6 ha 

Two small areas dominated by 120+ year old low, large-crowned Beech, (with Sweet 

Chestnut, Oak and Sycamore). Mature Holly forms a well-developed shrub layer. 

Bare earth is dominant beneath, and advance regeneration is rare. Safety tree work 

in 2006 has opened several holes in the otherwise complete canopy. 

Sub-Compartment 115c - 6.7 ha 

Typified by an open canopy of 60-80 year old Sycamore, with younger stands 

towards Parkhead. Mature Oak, Scots Pine, European Larch and Sweet Chestnut 

are present, but rare. 

The understorey is open, with occasional clumps of mature Holly (and Hazel), over a 

field layer dominated by Bluebell, with frequent Bramble, Broad Fern Buckler and 

Soft Creeping-grass. 

The area is criss-crossed by a number of streams, flushes and drainage ditches 

feeding into the north-western boundary brook backing onto Dobcroft Road. These 

are lined by occasional mature Alder, Ash and occasional Hazel. Here, the field 

layer is diverse with Wood Anemone, Yellow Archangel, Lesser Celandine and 

Opposite-leaved Golden saxifrage, Creeping Buttercup, Meadowsweet , Large 

Bittercress amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 115d - 0.6 ha 

Characterised by scattered mature, 80+ year old Sycamore, with occasional Oak, 

Alder and Pine, with Hazel (and Holly), re-growth from cut Sycamore stumps, and 

occasional young Rowan, Ash, and Oak. Bramble, Bracken, with Soft Creepinggrass 

and Bluebell form locally dominant parts of the field layer. Coppice with 


standards management was re-introduced to this area in 1994-96, and the shrub 

layer beaten up with the planting of Ash, Alder and Hazel in 2002. 

The various streams and flushes present within this area are botanically diverse with 

Yellow Archangel, Remote Sedge, Opposite-leaved Golden-saxifrage, and many 

others. 

Sub-Compartment 115e - 1.4 ha 

Characterised by dense, 25-40 year old pole-stage Silver Birch, with Oak, Sycamore, 

Rowan, Sweet Chestnut and frequent young Holly, which has developed following 

the 1962 storm. 

Mature Oak, Sweet Chestnut, Beech, Pine and Larch are scattered across this area. 

The field layer is more acid-loving, with Wavy Hair-grass frequent, together with 

Bramble, Bluebell, Broad Buckler Fern, and Soft Creeping-grass. 

Sub-Compartment 115f - 3.1 ha 

This area is dominated by mature Scots Pine, with frequent European Larch and 

locally frequent mature Oak (and Hornbeam, Sweet Chestnut, Sycamore, Silver 

Birch amongst others). Holly forms a fairly well-developed shrub layer, over a 

Bluebell and Bramble dominated ground flora. Pole-stage Silver Birch/Oak/Rowan 

are scattered throughout the stand. 

The stream side and its tributaries support mature Alder, with Ash, dead Wych Elm, 

Sycamore and Hazel over a diverse field layer dominated by Lesser Celandine, with 

Wood Anemone, and Yellow Pimpernel, amongst others. 


Sub-Compartment 116a – 3.7 ha (Limb Lane picnic site) 

This sub-compartment includes the Limb Lane picnic area, fringed by several blocks 

of young woodland, with a large area of amenity grassland in the centre of the area, 

linked to a car park. Much of the area was reclaimed from landfill in the 1970’s. 

The woodland is generally characterised by several mixed, 25-30 year old 

plantations consisting of small blocks of Alder, Beech, Scots Pine, Field Maple, 

Larch, Wild Cherry (Ash, Sycamore and Silver Birch), with occasional young 

Hawthorn and Elder, and a generally species poor field layer except for patches of 

Bluebell and Lesser Celandine. Many of the trees are of poor form, and the Beech in 

particular has suffered serious squirrel damage. Thinned in 2002-3 

By the entrance to the car park, the woodland is different. Situated upon mining slag, 

this area is characterised by naturally regenerated 30-50 year old Sycamore, with 

Oak, Birch, (Ash, Goat Willow and Rowan) over occasional Hawthorn, Holly and 

Elder. The field layer is clearly recent and secondary with Bramble, Bracken, Soft 

Creeping-grass, Ivy and occasional Bluebell.The steep bank falling down to the 


stream is characterised by Bluebell, and other ancient woodland plants like Great 

Woodrush, which are slowly spreading into the new woodland. 

Sub-Compartment 116b - 0.8 ha (Square Plantation) 

Varied mixture of mature Beech, Sycamore, Oak, Ash (Pine and Horse Chestnut) 

and semi-mature, 30-50 year old Ash, Sycamore (and Birch), over patchy sapling 

regeneration of Sycamore, Ash and Wych Elm. Nineteenth century plantation. 

In general the field layer is characterised by Bluebell, Bramble and Male Fern. 

However, two species rich spring lines flow through the woodland, with Yellow 

Pimpernel, Woodruff, Yellow Archangel, Wood Anemone, Common Valerian, and 

others, which are spreading into the rest of the woodland. Occasional, mature Alder 

and suckering Wych Elm are present along these spring lines. 

Sub-Compartment 116c – 1.6 ha 

Mixed plantation of 35-40 year old Beech, Sycamore, Norway Maple and Ash, with 

Sitka Spruce (Larch and Scots Pine), as well as occasional Silver Birch, Sessile Oak 

and Rowan, on a gently shelving, north-east facing slope leading to the Limb Brook. 

Occasional Hawthorn and Elder form an open understorey over a species poor field 

layer. Recent secondary woodland. Many of the trees are of poor form and the 

Beech in particular, have suffered serious squirrel damage. Majority thinned in 2002- 

03. 

The streamside is richer with mature Sessile Oak, Alder and Hazel, over Bluebell, 

Lesser Celandine, Wood Anemone and Dog's Mercury amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 116d – 17.0 ha (Bird Sanctuary) 

Predominantly mature, 100-120 year old, poorly-formed Sweet Chestnut, with Oak, 

forming a closed canopy. Other canopy species are rare, but include European 

Larch, Beech, Scots Pine, and semi-mature Silver Birch and Rowan. 

Here and there small clumps of 15-30 year old Birch-dominated regeneration are 

present, and a small number of 25-35 year old Sitka Spruce lie amongst these. 

Rhododendron is present in several large blocks along the south-eastern edge of 

this stand. The shrub layer is open, to well-developed, with Holly dominant. Natural 

regeneration is rare. The south-east part of the sanctuary is dominated by a mature, 

dense canopy of Beech. 

The field layer varies from bare earth mixed with Soft Creeping-grass, Bluebell, 

Honeysuckle, Broad Buckler Fern, Wood Sorrel and Bramble, to locally dominant 

Bluebell. 

The north-eastern corner of the sanctuary lies alongside two small tributary streams, 

supporting a richer community characterised by dense 30-50 year old Ash, with 

Silver Birch, Rowan, Oak and occasional Sycamore and Sitka Spruce. A few mature 

Oak and Sweet Chestnut occur here and there. Rhododendron is frequent in places 


The shrub layer contains frequent Hazel, over a Bluebell-dominated field layer, with 

Wood Anemone, Yellow Archangel and Soft Creeping-grass. The stream sides are 

richer with Ash, Alder, dead Elm and Hazel over Lesser Celandine, Dog's Mercury 

and Wood Anemone, with Opposite-leaved Golden-saxifrage, Common Valerian, 

Yellow Pimpernel and Greater Stitchwort amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 116e – 1.2 ha (Sawmill Site) 

Predominantly characterised by access roads, and buildings, this area does contain 

several small mixed groups of 30-40 year old secondary Sycamore, Birch, Wild 

Cherry and Larch. There are a few 100 year old Sycamore, Beech, Oak and Sweet 

Chestnut close to Abbey Lane, with a dense understorey of Cherry Laurel. 

Sub-Compartment 116f – 34.2 ha 

This extensive block is typified by a relatively open canopy of 70-120 year old, mixed 

form, low-crowned Oak, with locally frequent Sweet Chestnut, and occasional 

European Larch, (Scots Pine, Sitka Spruce and Beech). Pole-stage Rowan, Oak 

and Silver Birch are scattered across the area. Sycamore is concentrated on the 

woodland margins near Abbeydale Road South. Overall, the area has a relatively 

semi-natural character. 

Holly forms a sparse to well-developed shrub layer, with Hawthorn (and Hazel). 

Natural regeneration is occasional with Oak, Birch, (Yew), and Rowan typical, as 

well as Beech, Sycamore and Sweet Chestnut. 

The field layer is characterised by frequent Bluebell with Creeping Soft-grass, 

Bracken, Broad Buckler Fern, Honeysuckle (and Bramble). The ditches crisscrossing 

the stand are more diverse with Lesser Celandine and Wood Anemone 

amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 116g – 3.2 ha 

Open canopy of 100-120 year old, poorly-formed, closely grown Beech, with 

occasional Sweet Chestnut, Larch and Oak. 

Following thinning in 2002-3, the shrub layer is recovering from previous dense 

shade, but is still sparse, with occasional mature Holly, as well as young Hawthorn 

and Holly, and good patches of advance regeneration of Birch, Rowan, and Beech 

Recovering field layer, with Bluebell, Bramble, Honeysuckle and Wavy-Hair grass 

and bare earth characteristic, , and a richer flora along the frequent streams crossing 

the area, including Yellow Pimpernel, Greater Stitchwort, Great Woodrush, and 

Brooklime amongst others 


Sub-Compartment 116h - 1.1 ha 

Mosaic of rank neutral grassland, scrub and 20-30 year old trees. 

The grassland is characterised by Yorkshire Fog and Cocksfoot, with Hogweed, 

Creeping Thistle, Nettle, Meadow Vetchling, Creeping Buttercup, and occasional 

Bramble thickets, amongst others. Woodland herbs are spreading into the margins 

in places. 

The margins of this area support a mix of natural regeneration and planted 

Hawthorn, Ash, Osier, Goat Willow, Oak, Whitebeam and Italian Alder. 

Sub-Compartment 116i - 0.7 ha 

Varied and irregular young woodland comprising mixture of 15-30 year old Goat 

Willow, Alder and Osier, with Sycamore, Ash, Hawthorn and Elder on drier, higher 

ground. 

Near to the Limb Brook, the ground flora is diverse with Meadowsweet, Creeping 

Buttercup, Dog's Mercury, Wood Anemone, and frequent Bramble. 

Sub-Compartment 116j – 2.6 ha 

Situated on a steep, west to north-west facing slope, this area is characterised by a 

closed canopy of mature, low-crowned and crooked Sessile Oak, with Sweet 

Chestnut (and occasional Sycamore, Beech, European Larch and Scots Pine). 

Semi-mature Silver Birch and Rowan are present here and there as a sparse subcanopy, 

over a very open shrub layer of Holly. Natural regeneration is rare. 

Bare earth is dominant on the ground, with occasional Great Woodrush. Other 

plants are rare, but include Wavy Hair-grass, Honeysuckle, Bluebell, Bilberry, 

Heather, Hard Fern and Broad Buckler Fern. 


Sub-Compartment 116k – 9.1 ha 

Characterised by mature Scots Pine (and European Larch) intermixed with Oak as 

well as occasional to frequent Sycamore, (Ash, Alder, dead Wych Elm, Rowan and 

Yew). A few mature Horse Chestnut are also present along parts of the western 

boundary. Overall, the area has a predominantly closed canopy with limited natural 

regeneration, and a sparse shrub layer of Holly (and Hazel). The stand shelves 

gently eastward near the Limb Brook. 

In general, the field layer is typified by localised Bluebell with Soft Creeping-grass, 

Bramble, and Bracken, with Yellow Archangel, Wood Sorrel and other occasional 

herbs. 

However, along the frequent flushes and streams feeding the Limb Brook, as well as 

the Brook itself, the vegetation is much more semi-natural with Alder, Ash and Hazel, 

over a diverse flora of Wood Anemone, Lesser Celandine, Bluebell, Dog's Mercury 

and Yellow Pimpernel amongst others. 

Sub-Compartment 116L - 0.7 ha (Ryecroft Mill site) 

Centred on a silted disused millpond, this area is characterised by a stand of 40-60 

year old Sycamore, with Ash, Oak, Alder (and Scots Pine), over occasional Hazel. 

The pond itself supports little open water, and has been colonised by plants such as 

Opposite-leaved Golden Saxifrage, Lesser Celandine, Creeping Buttercup, Nettle, 

Soft Rush and Speedwell, with young Grey Willow, Ash and Sycamore also 

spreading. 

Sub-Compartment 116m – 3.0 ha 

This varied area is generally characterised by semi-mature (30-50 years) and more 

mature Sycamore, with frequent similar-aged Ash. Other occasional species include 

mature Oak, Silver Birch and Pine. Mature Alder lines the Limb Brook. Advance 

regeneration of Sycamore (Ash and Rowan) is prevalent, with occasional Hazel, 

Elder and English Elm (Holly). The field layer is frequently rich, especially along the 

damp streamside and margins including Lesser Celandine, Wood Anemone, Red 

Campion, Yellow Archangel, Greater Stitchwort, Wood Speedwell, Ramsons and 

Dog's Mercury amongst others. Himalayan Balsalm and Japanese Knotweed are 

present in small amounts near the streamside. 


CITY OF SHEFFIELD 

BYELAWS 

made by the 

Lord Mayor, Alderman and Citizens of the 

City of Sheffield, acting by the Council, 

with respect to 

PLEASURE 

GROUNDS 

SYDNEY HILTON 

Town Clerk 

A Full Copy is Available to Download Via Our: 

WEB SITE LINK 


APPENDIX 3 

FLORA 

In terms of natural history records, the site is divided up into 3 main blocks as 

follows: 

1 Whirlowdale Road SK 325831 

2 Area between Whirlowdale Road and Abbey Lane SK 326827 

3 Area including the Bird sanctuary SK 318822 

Refer to Figure 1.1b in the Management Plan 

TREES AND SHRUBS 

Acer campestre field maple 91-96 3, 

Acer pseudoplatanus sycamore 91-96 1,2,3 

Acer pseudoplatanus var pur’ia purple sycamore 91-96 2,3, 

Acer platanoides Norway maple 91-96 1,2,3 

Aucuba japonica spotted laurel 91-96 

Aesculus hippcastanum horse chestnut 91-96 1,2,3 

Alnus glutinosa alder 91-96 1,2,3 

A. cordata Italian alder 91-96 3 

A. incana grey alder 91-96 3 

Carpinus betulus hornbeam 91-96 1,2,3 

Castanea sativa sweet chestnut 91-96 1,2,3 

Chaenomeles speciosa Japanese quince 91-96 

Corylus avellana hazel 91-96 1,2,3 

Cotoneaster bullatus hollyberry cotoneaster 91-96 2,3, 

Cotoneaster frigidus tree cotoneaster 91-96 3 

C. horizontalis wall cotoneaster 91-96 3 

C. salicifolia willow-l’d cotoneaster 91-96 

C. simonsii Himalayan cotoneaster 91-96 1,2 

Crataegus monogyna hawthorn 91-96 1,2,3 

Cytisus scoparius broom 91-96 2, 

Fagus sylvatica beech 91-96 1,2,3 

F. sylvatica var purpurea copper beech 91-96 3 

Fragula alnus 

LRDB-A 

alder buckthorn 91-96 2, 

Fraxinus excelsior ash 91-96 1,2,3 

Ilex x altaclarensis Highclere holly 97 

Ilex aquifolium holly 91-96 1,2,3 

Ilex sp. holly varieties 91-96 1,2,3 

Laburnum anagyroides laburnum 91-96 1,2,3 

Larix decidua larch 91-96 1,2,3 

Ligustrum aureum golden privet 91-96 1 

L. ovalifolium garden privet 91-96 1,2,3 

Malus sylvestris crab-apple 91-96 1,2,3 

Picea abies Norway spruce 91-96 1,3 

P. sitchensis Sitka spruce 91-96 3, 

Ecclesall Pinus Woods nigra Management Plan Austrian pine 91-96 Appendices 3 Page 10

P. nigra var. calabrica Corsian pine 91-96 3 

P. sylvestris Scots pine 91-96 1,2,3 

P. thumbergii Japanese Black pine 91-96 3 

Platanus acerifolia London plane 91-96 3 

Populus x candicans Aurora Aurora poplar 91-96 3 

P. canadensis Italian black poplar 91-96 3 

P. tremula aspen 91-96 3 

P. tremuloides North Amer. aspen 91-96 3 

Prunus avium wild cherry 91-96 1,2,3 

P. cerastifera cherry plum 87 3 

P. cerasus dwarf cherry 91-96 1 

P. laurocerasus cherry laurel 91-96 1,2,3 

P. padus bird cherry 91-96 3 

P. spinosa blackthorn 91-96 2,3 

Pseodtsuga menziesi Douglas fir 91-96 3 

Pycanthus sp. pyracanthus 91-96 2 

Pyrus pyraster wild pear 91-96 2,3 

Quercus sp. oak 91-96 1,2,3 

Rhododendron ponticum rhododendron 91-96 1,2,3 

Ribes nigrum black currant 91-96 1,2,3 

R. rubrum red currant 91-96 1,2,3 

R. uva-crispa gooseberry 91-96 1,2,3 

Rosa arvensis field rose 91-96 1,2,3 

R. canina agg. dog rose 91-96 1,2,3 

R. laxaflora 91-96 3 

Rubus fruticosus bramble 91-96 1,2,3 

R. idaeus raspberry 91-96 1,2,3 

Salix alba var limpida white willow 91-96 3 

S. Britchensis coral Bark Willow 87 3 

S. caprea goat willow 91-96 2 

S. caprea x cinerea goat willow hybrid 91-96 3 

S. cinerea grey willow 91-96 3 

S. daphoides violet willow 91-96 3 

S. fragilis crack willow 91-96 3 

S. incana hoary willow 91-96 3 

S. sachalinensis sekka 91-96 3 

S. viminalis osier 91-96 2,3 

Sambucus nigra elder 91-96 1,2,3 

Sorbus alnifolia alder-leaved whitebeam 91-96 3 

S. aria whitebeam 91-96 1,3 

S aucuparia rowan 91-96 1,2,3 

S. intermedia Swedish whitebeam 91-96 1,2,3 

S. John Mitchell Mitchell’s whitebeam 91-96 3 

S. x thuringiaca thuringan whitebeam 91-96 3 

S. torminalis wild service tree 91-96 3 

Symphoricarpos alba snowberry 91-96 1,2,3 

S. orbicularis coralberry 91-96 3 

Taxus baccata yew 91-96 1,2,3 

T. baccta var fatigiata yew variety 91-96 3 

Tilia platyphyllus broadleaved lime 91-96 3 

T. x vulgaris lime 91-96 1,2,3 

Ulmus glabra wych elm 91-96 1,2,3 

U. procera English elm 91-96 1,2,3 


Viburnum opulus guelder rose 91-96 1,2,3 

HERBS 

Achellia millefolium yarrow 91-96 1,2,3 

Aconitum napellus monkshood 91-96 1,3 

Adoxa moshatellina moschatel 91-96 3 

Aegopodium podagraria ground elder 91-96 1,2,3 

Ajuga reptans bugle 91-96 1,2 

Alchemilla vulgaris agg. lady’s mantle 91-96 1,3 

Alliaria petiolata hedge garlic 91-96 1,2,3 

Allium ursinum ramsons 91-96 1,3 

Anemone nemorosa wood anemone 91-96 1,2,3 

Angelica sylvestris wild angelica 91-96 3 

Anthriscus sylvestris cow parsley 91-96 1,2,3 

Aquilegia vulgaris aquilegia 91-96 2 

Arabidopsis thaliana thale cress 91-96 1,2 

Arctium minus lesser burdock 91-96 1,2,3 

Artemisia vulgaris mugwort 91-96 2,3 

Arum maculatum arum lily 91-96 3 

Aster novi-belgii michaelmas daisy 91-96 1,3, 

Astilbe x arendsii astilbe 87 1 

Bellis perennis daisy 91-96 1,2,3 

Brassica oleracea wild cabbage 91-96 1 

Callitriche stagnalis water starwort 91-96 1 

Calluna vulgaris heather 91-96 1 

Calystegia sepium hedge bindweed 91-96 1,3 

C.sepium ssp syl. large bindweed 91-96 3 

Campanula arvatica Spanish bellflower 91-96 2 

C.posharskayana campanula gdn esc 91-96 2 

C. rotundifolia harebell 91-96 3 

Capsella bursa-pastoris shepherd’s purse 91-96 1,2,3 

Cardamine amara large bitter-cress 91-96 1 

C. flexuosa wavy bitter-cress 91-96 1,2,3 

C. hirsuta hairy bitter-cress 91-96 1,2,3 

C. pratensis lady’s smock 91-96 1,2,3 

Centaurea cyanus cornflower 91-96 3 

Centaurea nigra lesser knapweed 91-96 1,3 

Centaureum erythraea common centaury 91-96 3 

Centranthus rubra red valerian 91-96 2 

Cerastium holosteoides common mouse-ear 91-96 1,2,3 

C. tomentosum snow-in-summer 91-96 2 

Chamerion angustifolium rosebay willowherb 91-96 1,2,3 

Chelidonium majus greater celandine 87 1 

Chenopodium album fat-hen 91-96 1,3 

Chrysosplenium oppos’folium opplvd golden saxge 91-96 1,3 

Circaea lutiana enchanter’s nightshade 91-96 1,2,3 

C. x intermedia upland ench’ter’s n 91-96 2 

Circium arvense creeping thistle 91-96 1,2,3 

C. palustre marsh thistle 91-96 1,3 

C. vulgare spear thistle 91-96 1,2,3 

Conopodium majus pignut 91-96 1,3, 

Convolvulus arvensis field bindweed 91-96 3 


Corydalis claviculata climbing corydalis 91-96 1 

LRDB 

C. lutea yellow corydalis 91-96 2 

Crepis capillaris smooth hawk’s-beard 91-96 2 

Crocus vernus crocus 91-96 1,2 

Cymbalaria muralis ivy-leaved toadflax 91-96 3 

Cytisus scoparius broom 91-96 2,3 

Digitalis purpurea foxglove 91-96 1,2,3 

Dipsacus fullonum teasel 91-96 2 

Epilobium ciliatum American willowherb 91-96 1,2,3 

E. hirsutum great willowherb 91-96 1,2,3 

E. montanum broad-leaved willowherb 91-96 1,2,3 

E. roseum pale-flowered w’herb 91-96 1,2 

Erophila verna common whitlow-grass 91-96 3 

Epipactius helleborine br-leaved helleborine 98 

E. purpurata violet helleborine 1888 

Euphorbia peplus petty spurge 91-96 2 

Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet 91-96 1 

Fragaria vesca wild strawberry 91-96 2 

Fumaria officinale common fumitory 91-96 3 

Galanthus nivalis snowdrop 91-96 1,2,3 

Galeopsis tetrahit common hemp-nettle 91-96 1,3 

Galium aparine cleavers 91-96 1,2,3 

G.odoratum sweet woodruff 91-96 1,2,3 

G. mollugo hedge bedstraw 91-96 3 

G. palustre marsh bedstraw 91-96 1 

G. saxatile heath bedstraw 91-96 1,3 

Geranium dissectum cut-leaved crane’s-bill 91-96 3 

G.endressii French crane’s-bill 91-96 1,2 

G. lucidum shining crane’s-bill 91-96 1 

G.pratense meadow crane’s-bill 91-96 3 

G. pyrenaicum hedgerow crane’s-bill 91-96 3 

G. robertianum herb robert 91-96 1,2,3 

G. sanguineum bloody crane’s-bill 91-96 2 

Geum urbanum herb bennett 91-96 1,2,3 

Glechoma hederacea ground ivy 91-96 1,2,3 

Hedera helix ivy 91-96 1,2,3 

Heracleum sphondylium hogweed 91-96 1,2,3 

Hesperis matronalis dame’s violet 91-96 1 

Hieracium spp hawkweed 91-96 1,2,3, 

Hyacinthoides non-scriptus bluebell 91-96 1,2,3-BAP 

Hyacinthoides orientalis hyacinth 91-96 1,2,3, 

Hydrangea macrophylla hydrangea 91-96 1 

Hypericum androsaenum tutsan 91-96 1,2 

H. maculatum imperf St John’swort 91-96 1,3 

H. perforatum Per St John’swort 91-96 2 

H. tetrapterum sq-stalked St John’swort 87 

Hypochaeris radicata common cat’s-ear 91-96 1,2,3 

Iberis umbellata candytuft 91-96 1 

Impatiens glandulifera Himalayan balsam 91-96 1,2,3 

Iris psedacorus yellow flag 91-96 1,2,3 

Lactuca serriola prickly lettuce 91-96 1 

Lamiastrum galeobdolon yellow archangel 98 1,2,3 


Lamium album white dead-nettle 91-96 1,2,3 

L. maculatum spotted dead-nettle 91-96 3 

L. purpureum red dead-nettle 91-96 3 

Lapsana communis nipplewort 91-96 1,2,3 

Lathraea squamaria toothwort 91-96 1 

LRDB-A 

Lathrys pratensis meadow vetchling 91-96 3 

Lavatera arborea tree mallow 91-96 2 

Leontodon autumnalis autumn hawkbit 91-96 1,2,3 

Leucathemum vulgare oxeye daisy 87 

Linaria purpurea purple toadflax 91-96 2 

Lonicera nitida Wilson’s honeysuckle 91-96 1,2,3 

L perclymenum honeysuckle 91-96 1,2,3 

Lotus corniculatus common bird’sfoot trefoil 91-96 3 

L. pedunculatus greater bird’sfoot trefoil 91-96 3 

Lunaria annua honesty 91-96 1,2,3 

Lysichiton americanus yellow skunk cabbage 91-96 4 

Lysimachia nemorum yellow pimpernel 91-96 1,2,3 

L. punctata dotted loosestrife 91-96 1,2,3 

Mahonia aquifolium Oregon grape 91-96 3 

Matricaria matricarioides pineapple weed 91-96 1,2,3 

Mecanopsis cambrica Welsh poppy 91-96 1,2,3 

Melampyrum pratense common cow wheat 91-96 1,2,3 

Mercurialis perennis dog’s mercury 91-96 1,2,3 

Moehringia trinervia three-veined sandwort 98 1 

Mycelis muralis wall lettuce 91-96 1,2,3 

Myosotis arvensis common for-get-me-not 91-96 1,2 

M. scorpioides water for-get-me-not 91-96 1,3 

M. sylvatica wood-for-get-me-not 91-96 1,2,3 

Myrrhis odorata sweet cicely 91-96 3 

Narcissus pseudonarcissus daffodil 91-96 1,2,3- 

LRDBA 

Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel 91-96 1,2,3 

Plantago major rat’s-tail plantain 91-96 1,2,3 

P. lanceolata ribwort plantain 91-96 1,2,3 

Polygonatum x hybridum Solomon’s seal 91-96 1,2,3 

Polygonum aviculare knotgrass 91-96 1,2,3 

P. persicaria redshank 91-96 3 

P.lapathifolium pale persicaria 91-96 3 

P. polystachium Himalayan knotweed 87 

Potentilla anserina silverweed 91-96 3 

P. erecta tormentil 91-96 3 

P. reptans creeping cinquefoil 91-96 1,2,3 

P. sterilis barren strawberry 91-96 3 

Prunella vulgaris selfheal 91-96 1,3 

Pulmonaria sp. pulmonaria 91-96 3 

Pseudofumaria lutea yellow corydalis 95 

Ranunculus acris meadow buttercup 91-96 1,2,3 

R. ficaria lesser celandine 91-96 1,2,3 

R. flammula lesser spearwort 91-96 1 

R. repens creeping buttercup 91-96 1,2,3 

Rhinanthus minor yellow rattle 91-96 3 

LRDBA 


Rorippa sylvestris creeping yellow cress 91-96 3 

Rumex acetosella agg sheep’s sorrel 91-96 2 

R. acetosa common sorrel 91-96 1,2,3 

R. conglomeratus sharp dock 91-96 2,3 

R. crispus curled dock 91-96 1,2,3 

R. obtusifolius broad-leaved dock 91-96 1,2,3 

R. sanguineus blood-veined dock 91-96 1,2,3 

Sagina procumbens procumbent pearlwort 91-96 2 

Sanicula europaea sanicle 91-96 1,3 

LRDB-A 

Saxifraga x urbium London pride 91-96 1,2,3 

Scabiosa caucasia garden scabious 87 

Scrophularia nodosa figwort 91-96 1,2,3 

Scutellaria galericulata skullcap 98 

Sedum spectabile sedum 87 1 

S. spurium sedum 87 2 

Senecio jacobaea ragwort 91-96 1,2,3 

S. squalidus Oxford ragwort 91-96 1,2,3 

S. viscosus sticky groundsel 91-96 1 

S. vulgaris groundsel 87 1,2,3 

Silene dioica red campion 91-96 1,2,3 

Sinapis arvensis charlock 87 

Sisymbrium officinale hedge mustard 91-96 2,3 

Solidago canadensis Canadian golden-rod 91-96 2 

Sonchus arvensis corn sow-thistle 91-96 2 

S. asper prickly sow-thistle 91-96 1,2,3 

S. oleraceus smooth sow-thistle 91-96 1,2,3 

Sparganium erectum branched bur-reed 87 

Spiraea salicifolia bridewort 91-96 1,3 

Stachys sylvatica hegde woundwort 91-96 1,2,3 

Stellaria graminea lesser stichwort 91-96 3 

S. holostea greater stichwort 91-96 1,2,3 

S. media chickweed 91-96 1,2,3 

Symphytum grandiflorum dwarf comfrey 91-96 3 

S. officinale common comfrey 91-96 2 

Tanacetum parthenium feverfew 91-96 

Tanacetum vulgare tansy 91-96 3 

Taraxacum offincinale dandelion 91-96 1,2,3 

Teucrium scrodonia wood sage 91-96 1,2,3 

Thalictrum adiantifolium meadow rue 91-96 2,3 

Tolmiea menziesii pig-a-back plant 91-96 1,2 

Torilis japonica hedge parsley 87 

Tripleurospermum inodorum scentless mayweed 91-96 3 

Trifolium dubium lesser trefoil 91-96 2,3 

T. hybridum alsike clover 91-96 3 

T medium zig-zag clover 91-96 3 

T pratense red clover 91-96 3 

T. repens white clover 91-96 2,3 

Tritonia x crocosmiflora montbretia 91-96 1,2,3 

Tussilago farfara colt’sfoot 91-96 1,2,3 

Urtica dioica stinging nettle 91-96 1,2,3 

Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry 91-96 1,3 

Valeriana officinalis common valerian 91-96 1,3 


Verbena officinalis vervain 87 

Veronica arvensis wall speedwell 91-96 2,3 

V. beccabunga brooklime 91-96 1,3 

V chamaedris germander speedwell 91-96 1,2,3 

V. filiformis slender speedwell 91-96 1,2,3 

V hederifolia ivy speedwell 91-96 1,2,3 

V. montana wood speedwell 91-96 1,2,3 

V. persica common field speedwell 91-96 3 

V serphllifolia thyme-leaved speedwell 91-96 1,2,3 

Vicia cracca tufted vetch 91-96 3 

V. sativa common vetch 87 

V. sepium bush vetch 91-96 

Vinca minor lesser periwinkle 91-96 1,2 

Viola palustris marsh violet 91-96 3 

V. reichenbachiana early dog violet 91-96 3 

LRDB-A 

V. riviniana dog violet 91-96 


GRASSES, SEDGES AND RUSHES 

Agrostis canina ssp canina velvet bent 91-96 3 

A. canina ssp montana brown bent 91-96 3 

A. gigantea black bent 91-96 1,2,3 

A. stolonifera creeping bent 91-96 1,3 

A. capillaris common bent 87 1,2,3 

Alopecrus myosuroides slender foxtail 91-96 2 

A. pratensis meadow foxtail 91-96 1,2,3 

Anthoxanthum odoratum sweet vernal grass 91-96 3 

Arrhenatherum elatius false oat-grass 91-96 1,3 

Bromus ramosus hairy brome 87 

Carex binervis green-ribbed sedge 91-96 1,2,3 

C. laevigata smooth-stalked sedge 91-96 1,3 

C. pendula pendulous sedge 91-96 1,2,3 

C. pilulifera pill sedge 91-96 2 

C. remota remote sedge 98 

C. sylvatica wood sedge 91-96 1,2,3 

Cynosurus cristatus crested dog’s-tail 91-96 3 

Dactylis glomerata cock’sfoot grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Deschampsia cespitosa tufted hair-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

D. flexuosa wavy hair-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Elymus caninus bearded couch 91-96 1,2,3 

E. repens couch grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Festuca gigantea giant fescue 91-96 1,2,3 

F. ovina sheep’s fescue 91-96 3 

F. rubra red fescue 91-96 1,2,3 

Glceria fluitans flote grass 91-96 1,3 

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog 91-96 1,2,3 

H. mollis creeping soft-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Juncus articulatus jointed rush 87 

J. bulbosus bulbous rush 91-96 1 

J. effusus soft rush 91-96 1,2,3 

J. tenuis slender rush 91-96 2 

Lolium perenne rye-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Luzula campestris Good Friday grass 91-96 3 

L. pilosa hairy woodrush 98 1,2,3 

L. sylvatica great woodrush 98 1,2,3 

Milium effusum wood millet 98 1,2,3 

Molinea caerulea purple moor-grass 91-96 1 

Phalaris arundinacea reed canary-grass 91-96 1,3 

P. arundinacea var picta gardener’s garters 87 

Phleum pratense ssp bert’nii small-lvd timothy 91-96 3 

P. pratense timothy 91-96 1,2,3 

Poa annua annual meadow-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

P. nemoralis wood meadow-grass 91-96 3 

P. pratensis smooth meadow-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

P. trivialis rough meadow-grass 91-96 1,2,3 

Trisetum flavescens yellow oat-grass 91-96 3 


FERNS 

Asplenium ruta-muraria wall rue 91-96 3 

Athyrium filix-femina lady fern 91-96 1,2,3 

Blechnum spicant hard fern 91-96 1,2,3 

Dryopteris affinis scaly male fern 91-96 3 

D. dilatata broad buckler-fern 91-96 1,2,3 

D. filix-mas male fern 91-96 1,2,3 

Equisetum arvense field horsetail 91-96 3, 

Phyllitis scolopendrium hart’s-tongue fern 91-96 3 

Pteridium aquilinum bracken 91-96 1,2,3 

FUNGI 

Records from ‘Fungi in Ecclesall Woods’ Tony Lyon. Published in ‘The Natural 

History of Ecclesall Woods’ Special Publication No. 1. July 1997. Edited by 

I.D.Rotherham and Melvyn Jones. 

Myxomycota (slime moulds) 

Lycogala epidendrum Tree stumps / fallen trees 

Eumycota (true fungi) 

Ascomycotina (cup and flask fungi) 

Aleuria aurantia Damp soil, ditches 

Anthrocobia macrocystis Found commonly on burnt 

ground in autumn 

Ascocoryne sarcoides Old stumps and old decaying 

logs of 

beech and other trees 

Bulgaria inquinans On fallen trees and branches 

Cordyceps militaris 

Diatrype disciformis In autumn and winter on dead 

branches of beech and other 

trees 

Hellvella crispa In woodlands beside paths 

H. lacunosa Often on burnt ground 

Hypoxylon fraiforme On dead branches and trunks 

especially beech. 

H. multiformi 

Microsphaera aiphitoides 

Mollisia cinerea 

Nectria cinnabarina ‘coral spot’ - common on 

newly fallen 

twigs and branches 

Neobulgaria pura 

Peziza echinospora Burnt soil and charcoal from 

late 


spring until autumn 

P. repanda Usually associated with wood 

fragments 

Scutellinia scutellata 

Ustulina deusta Dead root of beech and other 

trees 

Xylaria hypoxylon Tree stumps / fallen branches 

X. polymorpha 

Basidiomycotina 

Cantharellales (chanterelles & relatives) 

Cantharellus infundibuliformis Damp woodland 

Craterellus cornucopioides Fallen leaves, deciduous 

woods. 

Clavariales (fairy clubs & coral fungi) 

Clavulina cinerea Damp, bare ground woods, 

ditches 

C. cristata “ “ “ “ 

“ 

Clavulinopsis fusiformis 

C. helvola Found in the open 

Hydnales (hedgehog fungi) 

Hydnum rufescens Woodland, often in groups or 

rings 

Poriales (polypores) 

Aurantioporus fissilis 

Bjerkandera adjusta Trunks / stumps deciduous 

trees 

Coriolus versicolour Dead wood of a variety of 

trees Daedaleopsis confragosa 

Datronia mollis 

Grifola frondosa Base of oak trees 

Heterbasidion annosum Stumps and coniferous roots 

rarely on deciduous trees 

Laetiporus sulphureus Living and dead deciduous 

trees esp. oak, poplar, willow 

Phaeolus schweinitzii Base of conifers esp. pine. 

Physisporinus vitreus 

Piptoporus betulinus Exclusively on birch 

Polyporus brumalis On buried sticks and pieces of 

wood 

P. ciliatus 

Postia caesia 


P. lactea 

Pseudotrametes gibbosa Fallen branches 

Rigidoporus ulmarius 

Schixopora paradoxa The bark of fallen branches of 

all 

types of trees 

Gandodermatles (polypores) 

Ganoderma adspersum Dead/living beech birch 

hornbeam 

Ganoderma applanatum A wide variety of trees esp. 

beech 

Fistulinales (polypores) 

Fistulina hepatica Foot of living oak or their 

stumps 

Stereales (resupinate fungi) 

Chondostereum purpureum 

Merulius tremellosus 

Stereum hirsutum Living/dead wood of 

deciduous trees 

S.gausapatum On logs, fence posts and 

standing 

and fallen timber 

S. rugosum On stumps and fallen 

branches and 

trunks, also on living trees 

Vuilleminia comedens 

Thelephorales (earth fans) 

Thelephora terrestris Bare sandy ground, conifer 

woods 


Dacrymycetales (jelly fungi) 

Calocera cornea Deciduous trees 

C. pallidospathulata 

C.viscosa Stumps of conifers 

Auriculariales (jelly fungi) 

Hirneola auricula-judae 

Tremellales Jelly fungi) 

Tremella mesenterica Fallen branches esp. 

oak/hornbeam 

Boletales (boletes & related fungi) 

Boletus badius Grows under spruce, pine less 

frequently under deciduous 

trees 

B. chrysenteron Deciduous and coniferous 


B. edulis Spruce woods in summer 

beech,oak 

and pine woods in autumn 

B. erythropus Deciduous woods esp under 

beech 

B. pruinatus 

B. subtomentosus Deciduous coniferous woods 

Leccinum scabrum In woods, parks hedgerows 

clearings 

Suillus grevillei Exclusively under larch 

Tylopilus felleus Acid soil under mainly 

coniferous 

Paxillus involutus 

Pluteales (pink spored agarics) 

Leptonia sericella 

Pluteus cervinus Rotting stumps and fallen 

trees 

Volvariella speciosa Rotting grass or straw, also on 

compost heaps 


Agarcales (dark-spored agarics) 

Agrocybe cylindracea 

A. praecox Grassy patches in meadows 

and 

light woods 

Coprinus micaceus On the ground around trees 

and 

stumps or on them 

C. atrementarius By tree stumps 

C. disseminatus Rotten stumps 

C. domesticus 

C.lagopides On leaf litter and small twigs 

Cortinarius semisanguineus Under birch 

Crepidotus lutolus 

C.mollis On wood 

C.variabilis Fallen branches/ rotting 

foliage 

Gymnopilus penetrans Stumps of conifers esp. pine 

Hebeloma crustuliniforme Under trees 

Hypholoma fasciculare Stumps and timber of various 

trees 

H. sublateritium Stumps of deciduous trees 

Inocybe asterospora 

I. bongardii Grows on limestone under 

deciduous 

trees. occ. under conifers 

I. flocculosa 

I. geophylla var lilacina Under deciduous trees. occ. 

conifers 

Pholiota squrrosa At the base of deciduous trees 

Psathyrella gracilis On leaf litter and sticks in 

mixed 

woodlands 

P. hydrophila Stumps / trunks deciduous 

trees 

Simocybe centunculus 

Stropharia squamosa 

Tricholomatales (white-spored agarics) 

Aminanta citrina Abundant in woodlands 

A. citrina var alba 

A. excelsa 

A. fulva Usually associated with birch, 

on 

peaty soils 

A. rubescens Abundant in woodlands 

A. vaginata Abundant in woods often 

under birch 

Armillaria bulbosa 

A. mellea Clusters on stumps, roots and 

live 


trunks of conifers & deciduous 

trees 

Calocybe gambosum 

the edge 

St George’s mushroom. On 

of woods. 

Clitocybe clavipes 

beech 

C. geotropa 

In conifer woods also under 

C. infundibuliformis 

with 

Abundant in coniferous woods 

grass and moss 

C. nebularis All types of woodland 

Collybia fusipes 

trees 

C. cirrhata 

At the base of beech and oak 

C. dryophila 

frequently oak 

All types of woodland, 

C. maculata 

concealed in 

conifers 

Grows on rotting wood 

the ground or on stumps on 

C. peronata On rotting leaves or needles 

Flammulina velutipes 

deciduous 

Hohenbuehelia grisea 

Stumps at the base of 

trees 

Laccaria amethystea 

woodland 

Rotten wood in all types of 

L. laccata 

L. proxima 

Abundant in all types of woods 

Lepista nuda 

woodland 

Abundant in humus on 

floor, esp. spruce growths 

Lyophyllum decastes All types of woods esp. beech 

Marasmius ramealis 

Mycena filopes 

Twigs esp. bramble and rose 

M. galericulata 

timber of 

Profusely on stumps and 

deciduous trees 

M. galopus 

coniferous 

Grows in deciduous and 


M. inclinata Dense clusters on oak stumps 

M. leucogala 

M. oortiana 

On burnt ground 

M. pura All types of woodland 

M. stylobates 

Myxomphalia maura 


Burnt ground in coniferous 

Oudemansiella radicata 

and 

Deciduous woods on stumps 

rotting wood in the ground 

Ecclesall Panellus Woods Management sertinus Plan Appendices Page 23

Pleurotus cornucopiae Trunks of deciduous trees 

P. ostreatus “ “ “ “ 

Tricholoma terreum All types of woodland esp. 

limestone 

T. platyphylla 

Strobilurus tenacellus 

Russulales (milk and cheese-caps) 

Lactarius blennius Under beech trees 

L. glyciosmus Abundant under birch in mixed 

woodland and along their 

edges 

L. quietus On the ground near oak trees 

L. rufus Abundant in mixed woodland 

L. subdulcis Mixed woodland often 

associated 

with beech 

L. tabidus Usually amongst Sphagnum 

associated with birch 

L. turpis Abundant in spruce woods 

under 

birch 

Russula aeruginea Woods and parks esp. under 

birch 

and spruce 

R. atropurpurea Grows under oak and pine 

R. cyanoxantha All types of woodland esp. 

oak/beech 

R. fellea All types of wood esp. beech 

R. mairei Under beech 

R. nigricans Abundant in all wood types 

R. nitida Frequently with Sphagnum 

R. ochroleuca Abundant in spruce woods 

R. parazurea Abundant in coniferous woods 

esp. 

spruce woods 

R. puellaris Associated with birch 

R. rosea In beech woods 

R. sororia Parks and along roads esp. 

oaks 

R. violeipes 

Gasteromycetes 

Sclerodermatales (earth-balls) 

Scleroderma citrinum Sandy pine woods on bare 

ground 

and along forest tracks 

Lycoperdales (puff-balls) 


Lycoperdon foetidum 

L. perlatum All types of wood 

L. pyriforme On old stumps and dead roots 

of 

trees 

Phallales (stinkhorns) 

Mutinus caninus In woodlands 

Phallus impudicus In humus in deciduous 

woodland 

Teliomycetes (rust and smut fungi) 

Uromyces muscari 

LICHENS 

Bacidia arnoldiana agg Pycnidiate form widespread 

on branches of elder and tree 

branches 

1993 

B. naegelii On single elder by Whirlowdale 

Road 

1983 

Chaenotheca ferruginea Locally present on trunks of the 

largest trees in sheltered areas 

1993 

Cladonia caespiticia Well developed on a single tree stump 

1993 

C. chlorophaea Five records from tree bases and 

stumps 

1993 

C. coniocraea Frequent on tree bases and stumps 

1993 

C. fimbriata Four records from tree bases and 

fallen trunks 

1993 

C. macilenta On a single tree stump 

1993 

C. polydactyla Tree records from bases of oak and 

birch 

1993 

C. pyxidata Base of a sweet chestnut 

1993 

C. squamosa On a fallen tree trunk 

1993 

Dimerella pineti Seen four times on base of ash 

oak and sweet chestnut 

1993 

Evernia prunastri Seen 16 time as a tiny thalli on 


leaning trunks of sycamore 

1993 

Hypocenomyce scalaris 

1993 

Five records from trunks of oak 

and sweet chestnut 

Hypogmnia physodes 

1993 

Seen 74 times; oak 32, sweet 

chestnut 34, sycamore 6, elder 4 

birch 3, log 1. Chiefly on horizontal 

or inclined bark surfaces 

H. tubulosa 

1993 

Four records from inclined tree trunks 

Lecanora conizaeoides 

1993 

Abundant 

L. dispersa 

1993 

On elder 

Lepraria incana agg. 

1993 

Abundant 

Micarea botryoides 

1993 

Pycnidiate form on a sweet chestnut 

and base of ash 

M. denigrata 

1993 

Occ. on trunks of sycamore and 

bases of oak. This easily overlooked 

species may be more abundant 

than records indicate 

M. prasina 

1993 

Occ., on a wide range of trees, 

stumps and logs 

Parmelia perlata 

1993 

One tiny thallus on a leaning 

sycamore 

P. revoluta 

1993 

On a leaning sweet chestnut 

P. saxitilis 

1993 

Seen eight times, chiefly on oak 


P. subaurifera Twelve records chiefly from leaning 

sycamore or horizontal boughs of 

oak 

1993 

P. sulcata Seen 169 times; sycamore 52, oak 50, 

sweet chestnut 35, elder 15, ash 9, 

birch 4, rowan 1, willow 1, beech 1 

horse chestnut 1. Chiefly on inclined 

bark surfaces 

1993 

Parmeliopsis ambigua Well developed populations on the 

base of sweet chestnut 

1993 

Phaeophyscia orbicularis Three records, two on elder one 

on eutrophicated sycamore 

1993 

Physcia tenella Young thalli seen 16 times, mostly 

on elder 

1993 

Placynthiella icmalea Widespread on sloping trunks 

1993 

P. uliginosa On a single leaning ash 

1993 

Platismatia glauca Seen seven times. On inclined 

bark 

1993 

Pseudevernia furfuracea A small thallus on horizontal 

bough of oak 

1993 

Ramalina farinacea Seen 14 times. Always as a tiny thalli 

mostly on leaning sycamore 

1993 

Ramonia luteola A single thallus on elder 

1993 

Scoliciosporum chlorococcum Occ. on sycamore. Possibly 

overlooked. 

1993 

Trapeliopsis flexuosa Occ. on logs, stumps and fallen 

trees 

1993 

T. granulosa Frequent on logs, stumps and 

trees 

1993 

Usnea subfloridana A small group of thalli up to 15mm 

long on a fallen sycamore 

1993 

Xanthoria parietina Two records, each of a small lobe 

On a sycamore 

1993 

X. polycarpa Three records, each of small thalli 

on elder 

1993 


Bibliography 

Baker, A.J. and Rotherham, I.D. 1995 Ecclesall Woods - Summary 

Management Plan. 

Sheffield Centre for Ecology and 

Environmental Management 

Blockeel, T.L 1985 Bryophytes in Ecclesall Woods 

Blockeel, T.L 1990 Bryophytes of Ecclesall Woods 

Sorby Record 60: 33 - 34 

Firkins, G.J. 1990 A Report of the Vegetation Survey of 


Sorby Record 33 - 55 

Firkins, G.J. 1987 Ecclesall Woods - A Preliminary 

Report. 

Funded by The Department of 

Land 

and Planning 

Gilbert, O. 1993 The lichens of Ecclesall Woods 1993 

A baseline Survey 

In The Natural History of Ecclesall 

Woods. Peak District Journal of 

Natural History and Archaeology 

Special Publication No. 1 July 

1997 

Medforth, P. 1995 The Birds of Ecclesall Woods 

Sheffield City Ecology Unit. 

Student 

Management Study, Sheffield 

Hallam 

University 

Eds. Rotherham, I.D. 1997 The Natural History of Ecclesall 

Woods 

and Jones, M. Peak District Journal of Natural 

History and Archaeology - a 

collection of 

papers including coppice 

management 

birds, lichens, fungi and bryophytes 

Rotherham, I.D. and Doram, G. 1990 A Preliminary Study of the 

Vegetation of 

Ecclesall Woods in relation to former 

Management. 


Sheffield Bird Study Group 1990- Bird Record. 

1997 

Smith, H. - Bird Records. From Recorder 

Smyllie, B. and Smyllie, W. 1990 Ecclesall Woods: some vascular plant 

additions 


Smyllie, B. 1998 Ecclesall Woods rare plants 

Sorby Natural History Society 1990 The Natural History of Ecclesall 

Woods 


Sorby Record No. 27 - a collection 

of papers covering archaeology, 

moths, 

bryophytes, vascular plants 

Whiteley, D. and Richards, P. - Invertebrate records 

From RECORDER City Museum 

Weston 

Park 

Woodcock, A 1991- Vascular plants in Ecclesall Woods 

1996 Sorby Natural History Society 

FAUNA 

MAMMALS 

Apodemus sylvaticus wood mouse post 1980 

Arvicola terrestris water vole BAP - SL post 1980 

Capreolus capreolus roe deer BAP/LRDB - A 

Cervus elaphus red deer BAP/LRDB - A 

Clethrionomys glareolus bank vole post 1980 

Erinaceus europaeus hedgehog BAP - post 1980 

Meles meles badger BAP/LRDB - B 

Oryctolagus cuniculus rabbit post 1980 

Rattus norvegicus brown rat post 1980 

Sciurus carolinensis grey squirrel post 1980 

S. vulgaris red squirrel last records from the 1950’s 

BAP - SL/LRDB - A 

Sorex araneus common shrew post 1980 

S. minutus pygmy shrew post 1980 

Talpa europaea mole post 1980 

Vulpes vulpes fox post 1980 

AMPHIBIANS 

Bufo bufo common toad BAP 

Rana temporaria common frog BAP 

REPTILES 

Natrix natrix grass snake LRDB - A/BAP 


BIRDS 

Records from ‘The Birds of Ecclesall Woods’ Paul Medforth and Ian D. 

Rotherham in ‘The Natural History of Ecclesall Woods’ Edited by Ian D. 

Rotherham and Melvyn Jones 1997. Harold ‘Smith Bird Records’ of Ecclesall 

Wood from RECORDER. 

BS = Bird sanctuary 

Ardea cinerea grey heron occasional visitor 

4.4.90 

Areas 3,4,5,BS 

Anas platyrhynchos mallard resident breeder 

Accipiter nisus sparrowhawk resident breeder 

29.3.97 

Areas 3,4,BS 

Buteo buteo buzzard scarce breeder 

LRDB - A 

30.6.86 

Falco tinnunculus Kestrel resident breeder 

28.4.90 

F. subbuteo hobby rare summer visitor 

1948 

(breeding) 

F. Peregrinus peregrine scarce visitor 

Lagopus lagopus red grouse rare winter visitor 

1941 

Phasianus colchicus pheasant former breeder 

WWII 3,4 

Crex crex corncrake former breeder on 

nearby farmland 

Vanellus vanellus lapwing resident breeder on 

nearby farmland. Area 

4 in 1920’s & 30’s 

Gallinago gallinago snipe rare visitor 

LRDB - B Area 3 

18.1.85 

Scolopax rusticola woodcock scarce resident breeder 

and winter visitor. 

11.6.94 

Area 1,BS 

Larus ridibundis black-headed gull visitor 

LRDB - B 

Columba oenas stock dove resident breeder 

18.6.84 

Area BS 

Actitis hypoleucos Common sand- 

piper 

1997 


Larus fuscus Lesser black- 

backed gull 

1997 

C. palumbus woodpigeon resident breeder and 

winter visitor 

25.2.95 

Streptopelia decaocto collared dove resident breeder 

21.12.82 

S. turtur turtle dove former resident breeder 

Cuculus canorus cuckoo summer visitor 

23.4.92 

Areas 1, 2, 3 

Athene noctua little owl resident breeder in 

nearby farmland 

Strix aluco tawny owl resident breeder 

27.12.98 

Area 3 

Asio otus long eared owl rare breeder 

1918 

LRDB - A 

Caprimulgus europaeus nightjar former breeder 

1927 

LRDB - A 

Apus apus swift resident. Area 1 

5.5.95 

Alcedo atthis kingfisher resident breeder 

LRDB - B 

Picus viridus green woodpecker uncommon resident 

LRDB - B Area BS 

28.3.93 

Dendrocopos major greater spotted wp resident breeder 

29.3.97 


D. minor lesser spotted wp resident breeder 

LRDB - A 

Areas 3,4,BS 

29.3.97 

Hirundo rustica swallow common summer visitor 

Delichon urbica house martin summer visitor 

Anthus trivialis tree pipit former migrant breeder/ 

passage visitor 

A. pratensis meadow pipit passage visitor 

1987,88 

Motacilla alba pied wagtail resident 

20.4.93 

Bombycilla garrulus waxwing winter/passage visitor 

1960’s 

Cinclus cinclus dipper resident 

LRDB - B 

Area 3 

12.1.91 


Troglodytes troglodytes wren resident breeder 

25.2.95 

Area 3,BS 

Prunella modularis dunnock resident breeder 

31.5.93 

Area 3,BS 

Erithacus rubecula robin resident breeder 

25.2.95 Areas 3 

Phoenicurus phenicurus redstart summer visitor 

1996 

Saxicola rubetra whinchat scarce bird of passage 

1965 

LRDB - B 

Turdus merula blackbird resident breeder 

2.6.96 

Area 3,4,BS 

T. pilaris fieldfare winter visitor 

T philomelos song thrush resident breeder 

BAP -SL 

Area 3 ,4 

3.6.96 

T. iliacus redwing winter visitor 

26.1.91 

Areas 2,3 

T. viscivorus mistle thrush resident breeder 

2.6.96 

Area 3,BS 

Sylvia curruca lesser whitethroat passage migrant 

S. communis comm. whitethroat summer visitor 

1965 

S. borin garden warbler migrant breeder 

S. atricapilla blackcap migrant breeder 

31.5.93 

Area 3,4 

Phylloscopus sibilatrix wood warbler summer visitor 

27.5.89 

Areas 1,2,3 

P. collybita chiffchaff summer breeder 

29.3.97 

Areas 1,2,3,4,BS 

P. trochilus willow warbler summer visitor 

31.5.93 

Area 3 

Regulus regulus goldcrest resident breeder 

28.4.90 

Area 3 

Muscipapa striata spotted flycatcher scarce summer visitor 

14.6.84 

Area BS 


Ficedula hypoleuca pied flycatcher summer visitor and 

LRDB -A 

breeder. Area 3 

15.5.94 

Aegithalos caudatus long tailed tit resident breeder 

25.2.95 

Areas 1,2,BS 

Parus palustris marsh tit possible breeder 

unconfirmed record 

P. montanus willow tit resident breeder 

31.12.82 

P. ater coal tit resident breeder 

28.6.84 

Area 3 

P. caeruleus blue tit resident breeder 

25.2.95 

Area 1,3,BS 

P. major great tit resident breeder 

25.2.95 

Area 3,BS 

Sitta europaea nuthatch resident breeder 

25.2.95 


Certhia familiaris treecreeper resident breeder 

25.2.95 

Area 1,2,3,BS 

Garrulus glandarius jay resident breeder 

3.7.96 

Area 1,3,5,BS 

Pica pica magpie resident breeder 

28.3.93 

Area 3,BS 

Corvus frugilegus rook resident 

28.2.94 

C. monedula jackdaw resident 

30.11.93 

C. corone carrion crow resident breeder 

31.5.93 

Area 3 

Sturnus vulgaris starling resident breeder 

7.4.93 

Area 3 

Passer domesticus house sparrow resident 

13.4.93 

Area 3 

P. montanus tree sparrow scarce resident breeder 

1976 

LRDB - B 

Fringilla coelebs chaffinch resident breeder 

13.4.93 

Area 3, BS 


F. montifringilla brambling winter visitor 

1.4.84 

Area 3 

Carduelis chloris greenfinch resident 

31.5.93 

Area 3 

C. carduelis goldfinch resident 

31.5.93 

Area 3 

C.spinus siskin winter visitor and passage 

LRDB - B 

migrant 

28.12.92 

C.cannabina linnet resident breeder on nearby 

farmland. Area 4. 

31.12.77 

C. flammea redpoll resident and winter visitor 

31.12.82 

Loxia curvirostra common crossbill rare visitor 

LRDB - A 

Pyrrhula pyrrhula bullfinch resident breeder 

31.12.82 

C. Coccothraustes hawfinch scarce resident 

LRDB - A 

Emberiza citrinella yellowhammer breeder on nearby 

farmland 

Macroinvertebrate fauna of the Limb Brook 

Amphinemura sulciocollis a stonefly 

1977-78 

Nemoura sp. a stonefly 

1977-78 

Isoperla sp. a stonefly 

1977-78 

Protonemura sp. a stonefly 

1977-78 

Leuctra hippopus a stonefly 

1977-78 

Baetis rhodani a mayfly 

1977-78 

Ecdyonurus venosus a mayfly 

1977-78 

Hydropsyche instabilis a caddis fly 

1977-78 

Rhyacophila sp. a caddis fly 

1977-78 

Phryganea sp. a caddis fly 

1977-78 

Plectrocnemia sp. a caddis fly 

1977-78 


Sialis lutaria alder fly 

1977-78 

Tipula sp. a true fly 

1977-78 

Dicranata sp. a true fly 

1977-78 

Gammarus pulex 

1977-78 

Polycelis nigra 

1977-78 

Gordius sp. 

1977-78 

Eiseniella tetrahedra 

1977-78 

Lumbriculus variegatus 

1977-78 

Nais sp. 

1977-78 

Glossiphonia complanata 

1977-78 

Erpobdella octuculata 

1977-78 

Helobdella stagnalis 

1977-78 

Ansylastrum fluviatile 

1977-78 

Limnea perger 

1977-78 

Hydrobia jenkinsi 

1977-78 

Sphaerium sp. 

1977-78 

Tendipes gr. riparius a blood worm 

1977-78 


PARKS & COUNTRYSIDE SERVICE 

EVENTS POLICY 

Aim 

To develop a policy for events with appropriate strategies, as a means of encouraging 

greater community usage of Parks, Woodlands and Countryside areas managed by 

Sheffield City Council, and to liaise with City Council departments, partner agencies I 

other organisations to achieve this aim. 

Objectives 

Attainment of the above aim is achieved through pursuit of several key objectives, and 

incorporates both development and monitoring functions, these are: 

1. Development Objectives 

1.1 To facilitate various organisations and groups to stage events in the city's 

Parks and Countryside by providing information and advice about relevant 

opportunities. 

1.2 To organise an annual events programme and to promote and publicise this 

throughout Council departments, local community based organisation and 

the media. 

1.3 To work with officers from relevant Council departments and sections, and 

representatives from external agencies in relation to staging a range 

specific events and activities throughout the year. 

1.4 To maximise usage and income from events and activities held in City 

Council owned Parks and Countryside. 

1.5 To provide small amounts of grant aid to community based organisations, to 

assist them in relation to staging events and activities in Parks and 

Countryside, specifically targeting areas of disadvantage. 

2. Monitoring Objective 

2.1 Through liaison with officers from appropriate City Council departments and 

external agencies, to ensure that relevant statutory Council practices and 

procedures are complied w including health and safety. 

2.2 To ensure that relevant financial procedures and budgetary requirements 

are complied with, as detailed in the internal audit report of April 2002 

2.3 To review the current policies, strategies, procedures and annual events 

programme, and where necessary, make recommendations to the 

appropriate Council officers and elected members. 

Rev. September 2005 


Development, Environment and Leisure (DEL) 

Health and Safety Policy (2006–07) 

A Summary for all Employees from the Executive Director 

Commitment 

The DEL Directorate will make every effort to 

deliver its services in line with both the spirit 

and the requirements of the Corporate Health 

and Safety Policy Statement. 

At service block level, the Directorate will 

expect managers to plan for health and safety 

wherever possible, which will mean setting 

clear objectives, identifying hazards, 

assessing risks and implementing standards 

of performance. This will help to create and 

sustain a culture where everyone is 

adequately trained, informed, instructed, 

supervised and consulted and knows, 

accepts and acts upon his/her health and 

safety responsibilities. 

Directorate Priorities 

The Directorate Management Team (DMT) will 

agree the health and safety priorities for the 

DEL Directorate at service block level. These 

will be included in the annual service plan for 

each area and will complement the corporate 

priorities detailed in the Corporate Health and 

Safety Policy Statement. The corporate 

priorities for 2005/2007 are: 

• Managing Change 

• Stress 

• Partnerships 

• Musculoskeletal Disorders 

• Learning from Others 

1 April 2006 

……………………………………….. Date …………………………….. 

John Mothersole, Executive Director, 

DEL Directorate 

If you have a query or comment on any aspect of this policy, or 

know someone who would like to receive the policy information in 

a different way, please, in the first instance, get in touch with the 

Senior Health and Safety Adviser for your service area. 

How the Policy will be 

implemented 

As Executive Director, I will ensure, through the 

DEL management structures, that first and 

foremost the Directorate complies with all the 

health and safety legislation that is applicable to 

its areas of business. I will also ensure that the 

Directorate monitors and reviews health and 

safety performance on an ongoing basis by the 

most appropriate and effective means available. 

To facilitate this in each individual service block, 

my Directors will, in consultation with their 

Heads of Service, Senior Managers, Specialist 

Advisers and the respective Employee 

Representatives, formulate the strategies, plans, 

systems and procedures that are central to the 

effective implementation of this policy. 

Your Role 

It is the duty of every employee of the DEL 

Directorate to play his/her part towards 

keeping fellow employees, service users, the 

public and themselves safe and healthy. 

To achieve this, it is important that you 

continue to: 

• Work in a safe manner at all times. 

• Co-operate with your manager, supervisor 

and colleagues on all matters to do with 

health and safety in your area of work. 

• Tell your manager or supervisor if you spot 

any health and safety arrangements that are 

not working as well as they should, or could. 

Ecclesall Woods Management Plan Appendices Page 37 

DP4242

Introduction 

The purpose of this document is to : 

A Best Performing Council 

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK 

Our Customer Feedback Process 

inform you about the Council’s Corporate Feedback Process called Tell Us What You 

Think 

explain how it works 

describe the methods to be used for monitoring it’s effectiveness 

Aims 

Sheffield City Council encourages and welcomes feedback across the full range of our 

services irrespective of how customers have accessed these services. 

Customer feedback is an important means of letting us know how we are performing, and 

it also helps us to focus on ways of improving the services we deliver to ensure that 

customers are satisfied and we demonstrate value for money. Customer feedback is also 

a very valuable contributor to the City Council’s continuous improvement agenda. 

Since Tell Us What You Think was launched on the 15th July 2002, customers been 

provided with a number of different ways to let us know when we have provided a good 

service, where our services are in need of improvement or where the customer feels that 

they need to complain about poor service delivery. 

Basic principles and objectives 

All employees who have a working involvement with customers have a responsibility to 

use this corporate process to respond to any feedback that they receive. 

If a customer makes a complaint, it is important that we try and put things right there and 

then. If this is not possible, then at the very least, the customer needs to be told how their 

feedback will be dealt with. 

It is very important for all feedback about our services or employees to be handled fairly, 

effectively and with a degree of confidentiality, so that customers can have confidence in 

the process and feel that their feedback is being treated seriously. 


Where feedback relates to a comment or suggestion, the customer also needs to be reassured 

that we appreciate their views. This type of feedback can often help to indicate 

where improvements are needed to the way we deliver a particular service or where we 

have already met or even exceeded customer expectations. 

The corporate process has a number of specific objectives :- 

Accessible – it should be possible for a customer to give us feedback verbally at any 

enquiry point, via telephone contact, in writing, by e-mail or via the Council’s web site 

Easy to Use - the process is simple to use from a customer’s perspective and easy for 

employees to respond to feedback once it has been received 

Responsive – one of the fundamental parts of the corporate process is that feedback 

should be dealt with quickly, locally and informally where at all possible. If a satisfactory 

response cannot be given straight away, the published process provides our customers 

with clear guidance on when they can expect a full reply. These corporate standards 

for responding to customer feedback are also embodied within the Council’s Customer 

Service Charter 

Objective – serious complaints must be referred to an appropriate line manager. If a 

customer cannot be given a satisfactory response, it may be necessary to arrange an 

investigation by a senior officer who is not linked with the complaint in any way 

Remedy – if any complaint is found to be justified, we should try and put things right. 

This may take the form of an apology, together with ensuring that the complainant 

receives the service to which they are entitled 

Prevention – it is important that in the light of any complaint, action is taken to reduce 

or prevent the possibility of similar complaints in the future 

Improving Our Services – where a comment or suggestion is made about a service 

that a customer has received, the information may be used to examine ways that the 

service may be improved. Similarly, where a customer pays us a compliment about a 

service that they like, it may be possible to use this element of good practice in other 

parts of the Council’s service 

Confidentiality – to protect employees and the customer who has complained, only 

those persons who need to know about the complaint should be informed 

How can customers access the Corporate Feedback Process ? 

Verbally in person - at a customer service point that provides the service to which the 

feedback relates 


Verbally by Telephone – customers may give us feedback over the telephone and 

employees should take note and respond appropriately to the information received 

In writing - by either sending a letter to us or completing the feedback form at the back 

of our information leaflet entitled “Tell Us What You Think” 

Via E-mail – customers may e-mail the Council with their feedback by using our 

corporate address : firstpoint@sheffield.gov.uk 

Via the Council’s web site - the corporate feedback process is described in detail on 

our web pages. An electronic version of the Council’s “Tell Us What You Think” leaflet 

is reproduced for customers to follow and an on-line feedback form is available for 

them to use. 

What should I do if I receive feedback from a customer ? 

Verbally In Person or by Telephone – Do not ask the customer, unless they wish to 

do so, to put their feedback in writing. If the customer approaches you in person, record 

their comments or complaint on one of the feedback forms and ask them to sign it as a 

way of confirming what they have told you. If the customer gives you feedback over the 

telephone, once again record their comments on a feedback form but accept what has 

been said to you without the need for a signature. If it is possible to give the customer a 

response to their feedback there and then, do so. If not, acknowledge receipt of the 

customer’s information and give them a date by which they may expect a written 

response (this must be within 28 days). Also supply them with the name of the officer 

who will be dealing with this matter and the officer’s contact details 

In Writing – try to respond to the feedback within 7 days of receipt. If this is not 

possible because the feedback is about a complex matter, send the customer an 

acknowledgement postcard within the same 7 day period and arrange for any further 

(full) response to be sent to them within 28 days 

By e-mail or via the Council’s Web Site – acknowledge the feedback within 3 days of 

receipt, by letting the customer know who is dealing with this matter and when they can 

expect to receive a further response. Arrange for the further response to be sent to the 

customer within 28 days of receipt of their original feedback 

Compliments – if a customer pays a compliment to an employee or to one of the 

Council’s services by any means other than verbally, a letter of thanks (or e-mail) 

should be sent to this person within 7 days. It is more appropriate to send the customer 

a personal letter under these circumstances rather than a pre-printed 

acknowledgement postcard so as to recognise the time and trouble that the customer 

has taken to give us their feedback 

General Point – if the feedback relates to a comment or suggestion and has been made 

by any means other than verbally, a satisfactory response is to send the customer one of 


our pre-printed acknowledgement postcards. The postcard thanks the customer for their 

contribution and confirms that the comment or suggestion will be considered to help 

improve Council services. The acknowledgement postcard should be sent to the customer 

within 7 days of their feedback being received 

What if the feedback is about one of the services that a partner carries out on our 

behalf? 

If feedback relates to services provided by our partners Onyx, Liberata or Kier, it should be 

passed on to them with a request that they respond directly to the customer within our 

Customer Service Charter timescales. We should let the customer know that they should 

expect to receive a response to their feedback from this company. 

What records should we keep about feedback from customers ? 

Each Directorate has been issued with a set of feedback record sheets so details of 

customer feedback may be recorded and referred to later if contact is made with the 

Council again. Any section or team that receives customer feedback should use these 

forms. 

How will the feedback process be monitored ? 

Each team or section within a Directorate needs to use information from their record 

sheets to compile a monthly analysis of the feedback they receive. A designated 

representative within each Directorate will ask you to supply them with a monthly analysis 

of feedback activity within your section / team. You can provide this return by using the 

monitoring sheet supplied for this purpose. In turn, Directorates will be asked to supply a 

quarterly analysis of feedback activity to the Chief Executive’s Public Service Access 

Team. Once again, a pre-printed analysis form has been distributed to Directorates for this 

purpose. It will greatly help the feedback monitoring process if everyone keeps their 

monthly figures up-to-date. 

How will we know if the Corporate Feedback Process is working effectively ? 

We will talk to customers who have approached us with feedback to see if they were 

satisfied with our response to their comment, complaint, compliment or suggestion. The 

feedback process will also be reviewed through the Achieving Excellence Project Group. 

Directorate representatives will be able to report back on how the process is working in 

their own service area and suggest any improvements that need to be implemented in the 

future. 


What is the overall importance of the Corporate Feedback Process to the Council ? 

Very important indeed ! 

If we are judged by our customers to have a fair, effective and efficient process for dealing 

with their feedback, we will have gone a long way towards establishing stronger links with 

those same customers. 

A good Corporate Feedback Process will also help to enhance the Council’s reputation 

and help us maintain our position as one of the best performing Councils in the country. 



VIOLENCE AT WORK 

A Policy Statement 

1 Introduction 

The Council has had a policy on violence at work for many years. The 

purpose of this policy is to minimise the risk to employees being subject to 

violence at work by putting in place a range of strategies. This document 

follows a review of that policy and reflects the intention of the Council, its 

managers, employees and trade unions to seek to continually improve the 

Council's performance in managing risks of violence. 

2 Definition of Violence 

This includes not only physical attacks but threats and fear of violence, 

verbal abuse, racial, homophobic and sexual harassment and animal 

attack. It also includes violence towards an employee’s family, or damage 

to their property, which relates to the employee’s work. 

3 Requirements of this Policy 

A fundamental principle of this policy is that violence towards employees is 

unacceptable. 

The Council will:- 

• treat any incidents of abuse, threat, or assault on its employees very 

seriously and will take appropriate action against perpetrators. Action 

may include withdrawal of service and legal remedies; 

• make information, advice, resources, training and support available to 

managers and employees to assist them in meeting the requirements 

of this policy; 

• provide physical assault insurance to all employees and inform them of 

the terms and benefits; 

• provide employees with access to critical incident debriefing where 

appropriate. 


• receive reports on the effectiveness of this policy and review the policy 

as appropriate; 

• consult trade unions and employees on violence issues; 

• provide a means for trade unions to call a case conference at 

corporate level if there is a serious incident which they feel needs this 

approach; 

• work constructively with our partners, contractors and other agencies in 

the city (eg, SY Police). 

This policy requires that 

• managers identify, assess, record and keep under review violence risks. 

They will develop working arrangements, provide appropriate equipment, 

resources, training and support to reduce and control violence risks. This 

includes regular consultation with staff and their representatives; 

• managers follow reporting arrangements and provide appropriate support 

to employees in line with violence at work guidelines; 

• employees co-operate with managers and other colleagues in complying 

with any working arrangements made to reduce and control violence risks; 

• both corporately and in Directorates, violent incidents will be monitored 

and the information used to help manage risk. 

4 Review Arrangements 

June 2004 

This policy will be subject to review no later than June 2006. 

Incidents between employees will be dealt with under the Council’s personnel procedures. 


Health and Safety Guidelines 

THE MANAGEMENT OF NEEDLESTICK INJURIES 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Needlestick injuries in the community (away from the hospital) are not common but 

they do cause anxiety and distress because of the small risk of infection that can be 

caused by them. Although needle and syringe exchange schemes which are used 

by responsible intravenous drug users are easily available, it still happens that some 

used needles are discarded carelessly in public places to be found by employees or 

by members of the public. Sometimes they are deliberately hidden to cause injury. 

Fortunately, these incidents don’t happen very often and the likelihood of it 

happening can be reduced further by being alert to dangers, thinking before you act 

and by following safe systems of work, including the use of personal protective 

equipment when provided. 

These types of accidents can happen inside of work but they can also occur away 

from work. If it happens outside of work, to you or a member of your family, the 

same actions should be taken. (The accident book/form would not need to be 

completed and only employees need to contact Occupational Health.) 

Immediate First Aid 

Remove the needle if it is still stuck in the skin, and place it somewhere safe. 

Arrange for the safe disposal of this. 

Squeeze the wound it make it bleed (do not suck the wound). 

Wash the area well using soap and water or wipe well with a ‘medicated wipe’ 

from the First Aid box and then cover with a plaster. 

Further treatment 

Report to your manager/supervisor to arrange to go and see your General 

Practitioner during opening hours of the Accident and Emergency Department at 

the Northern General Hospital if you cannot see your family doctor immediately. 

When you visit your GP or the A & E Department you will need to tell them what 

has happened and how you have been injured. DO NOT take the needle with 

you. 

The doctor will start a course of vaccination against Hepatitis B if you have not 

already had this and may give you antibiotics and a tetanus booster if they are 

needed. These injections need to be started promptly, so do not delay in going to 

A & E or to see your GP. 

_________________________________________________________________________________ 

Parks, Woodlands and Countryside 

Position Statement 

June 2005 (Version 1) 

Ecclesall Woods Management Plan Appendices Page 45 

MT/H&S/needlestick injuries/SW

Health and Safety Guidelines 

Management of Needlestick Injuries 

You will then be advised to contact both your GP and Occupational Health for 

follow-up. 

As per the guidelines issued by Dr Rosy McNaught, Consultant in Communicable 

Disease Control for Sheffield, September 2001. 

On return to work 

Complete the accident book and accident form. 

Contact Occupational Health. 

__________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Parks, Woodlands and Countryside 

Position Statement 

June Ecclesall 2005 Woods (Version Management 1) Plan Appendices Page 46 

2


Environmental Policy 

We recognise the essential contribution the environment makes to the 

lives of everyone in Sheffield and around the world. We will therefore aim 

to ensure that all of our services are managed so that they take every 

practical opportunity to improve and maintain the quality of both our 

local and global environments. 

Strategic Environmental Objectives 

We will through our own activities and through influencing the actions of 

others: 

1. Reduce the use of energy. 

2. Increase the proportion of energy coming from renewable sources. 

3. Reduce the use of material resources. 

4. Improve the environmental quality of material resources used. 

5. Improve the environmental quality of land and landscapes. 

6. Protect and increase the diversity of wildlife. 

7. Improve the environmental quality of buildings. 

8. Improve the environmental quality of roads, streets and other features. 

9. Improve the environmental impact of transport and travel. 

10. Reduce the impact of waste released to air, water and land. 


To ensure that the City Council's strategic environmental objectives are pursued effectively 

wherever they are relevant, we will establish and maintain Eco-Management and Audit 

System that include: 

1. Responsibility, co-ordination and review structures that set out clearly who is responsible 

for developing, managing and reviewing all parts of our eco-management and audit 

system. 

2. An Environmental Policy that sets out clearly the overall strategic framework the City 

Council is using to guide the development of its Eco-Management and Audit System and 

continuous improvements in environmental performance. 

3. Specific Environmental Objectives linked to aspects of City Council service activities that 

have or could have significant impacts on the environment (environmental risks). 

4. Environmental Targets designed to continuously improve the City Council's 

environmental performance by addressing the significant environmental impacts of our 

activities. 

5. Internal Communication and Training that promotes a greater understanding of and 

responsibility for this environmental policy amongst our members and employees at all 

level. 

6. External Communication, Dialogue and Partnership processes that enable stakeholders 

in the wider community to find out more about the City Council's environmental 

performance and to work with us to improve the environment for everyone. 

7. Environmental Management Systems that organises the procedures needed to 

effectively manage the City Council's significant environmental impacts. 

8. Environmental Audits at regular intervals to check how well all parts of this environmental 

policy are being implemented. 

9. Suppliers and contractor procurement procedures that set out the environmental 

standards we actively encourage these organisations to aspire to. 

10. Environmental Stewardship procedures that ensure the potential environmental impacts 

(risks) of all new policies and activities are adequately taken into account during all 

stages of the development and decision making process. 

If you would like more detailed information about the City Council's Eco-Management and Audit 

Systems visit the Environmental Protection Services web pages at: 

www.sheffield.gov.uk/environment 

If you have any suggestions that you feel could improve this environmental policy please 

contact: 

The Eco-Management and Audit System Co-ordinator, 

The Environmental Protection Service, 

2-10 Carbrook Hall Road, 

Sheffield S9 2DB Tel: 273 4641 Email: steve.byers@sheffield.gov.uk 

(Eco-file section 2) 


Sheffield City Council - Improving Sheffield's Environmental Performance 

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Local Authorities have been given a unique role by the UK Government to help 

introduce Sustainable Development at a local level through the Local Agenda 21 

process. 

Sustainable Development is change that improves the economy, employment 

opportunities and quality of life of our communities. The key is that it does so within 

the capacity of the environment to provide what we need and to absorb the waste we 

produce. 

Ensuring that the capacity of the environment is taken into account will not happen by 

accident. It will only happen if this concern is integrated effectively into the daily 

management of all organisations at all levels. 

Eco-Management and Audit Systems are designed to ensure this effective integration, 

enabling organisations to successfully identify the significant impacts their activities 

have on the environment, and to continuously improve their environmental 

performance by consistently reducing these impacts over time. 

The City Council is developing and introducing an Eco-Management and Audit System 

made up of 10 parts: 

1. Responsibility Co-ordination and Review 

2. Environmental Policy 

3. Environmental Objectives 

4. Environmental Targets 

5. Internal Communication & Training 

6. External Communication & Dialogue 

7. Environmental Management Systems 

8. Environmental Audit 

9. Suppliers & Contractors 

10. Environmental Stewardship 

The framework is based upon a structure developed by Business in the Environment 

for their National and Regional Environmental Indices which annually benchmarks 

(audits) the environmental management of many of the largest organisations at a 

national and local level. 

To find out more about our 10 part Eco-Management and Audit System follow the 

links on this page or in the left hand margin. 

Contact the Service Comment or Complain Service Charter 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/environment/eco-management (1 of 2)16/01/2006 16:03:31 

Service provided by Environmental Protection Service 

A part of Environment and Regulatory Services 

Directorate of Development, Environment and Leisure 


PARKS & COUNTRYSIDE SERVICE 

PESTICIDES USE POLICY 

1. Pesticide Use - Statutory Provisions 

The Parks and Countryside Service will comply with all such provisions 

including: 

1.1 The Food and Environment Protection Act 1985, the Control of 

Pesticides Regulations 1986 and such codes of practice as may be 

issued under the above Act. 

1.2 The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and such codes and 

guidance published by the Health and Safety Executive in furtherance of 

that Act. 

1.3 The Poisons Act 1972 and the Poisonous Substances in Agriculture 

Regulations 1984. 

1.4 The Control of Pollution Act 1974. 

2. General Requirements 

Pesticides that are to be used on lands, which are owned by Sheffield City 

Council, shall only be applied where specified. 

2.1 No pesticide except those approved shall be used. 

2.2 Immediately prior to application of the pesticide, the Parks and 

Countryside service must liaise with other grounds users and advise of 

any precautions they should take in respect of that application. 

Page 1 of 2 

Rev. Ecclesall September Woods 2005 Management Plan Appendices Page 50

3. Prior to Use 

Before the use of any pesticides, the Parks and Countryside service shall in 

accordance with current legislation (Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986): 

3.1 Ensure that each person who is to apply pesticides or decontaminate 

pesticide application equipment holds the Certificate of Competence 

applicable to the method of application. Alternatively, a holder of the 

applicable Certificate of Competence shall closely supervise the trained 

pesticide operatives. 

3.2 Ensure that all staff have clear guidelines on the safe system of work to 

be adopted in the application of pesticides. 

3.3 Provide application equipment that is in first class working order, and 

provide the protective clothing as specified by the product manufacturer 

and/or Health and Safety Executive. 

3.4 Keep comprehensive records of pesticides applied. 

3.5 In hot weather conditions, spraying must be delayed until the onset of 

cooler conditions in order to minimise the risk of spray drift. 

3.6 The ideal wind speed for spraying is Beaufort Scale 2 (leaves rustle, 

wind felt lightly on the face) and pesticides shall not be applied if this 

wind speed condition is exceeded. 

4. Code of Practice – Pesticide Spraying or Distribution 

4.1 All pesticides are used only in accordance with the instructions provided 

on labels attached to containers and applied in accordance with all 

current legislation. 

4.2 All hazardous materials shall be stored in safe and secure conditions 

with access only to authorised personnel. All materials shall be in 

original containers and under no circumstances decanted into bottles or 

other unlabelled containers. The building used for storage shall display 

the standard Hazardous Materials warning sign, in accordance with BS 

5378. A list of pesticides in the store shall be readily available in case of 

fire. The store shall comply with the regulations currently in force for the 

storage of pesticides. 

4.3 At no times shall pesticides be left unattended in a public place by the 

contractor or their operatives. 

4.4 Protective clothing (appropriate to the pesticide being applied) shall be 

provided and shall be worn at all stages of the operation. 



4.5 All cartage, dispensing and mixing of hazardous materials shall take 

place in safe conditions; correctly labelled original containers properly 

closed shall be used. Under no circumstances shall mixed spray 

materials be carted in un-lidded containers where spillage and splashing 

could occur when mounting kerbs and grass edges, or pulverised dry 

materials become wind borne. 

4.6 Suitable weather and ground conditions are essential when applying 

chemicals. Periods of high winds, heat or humidity or drought must be 

avoided. 

4.7 Protective clothing shall be worn until appliances have been cleaned 

and stored away. Protective clothing shall be decontaminated after use 

and before storage. 

5. Herbicide Treatments 

All treatments shall include for collection and removal from site any litter, 

debris, that may reduce the effectiveness of the application. 

5.1 Care must be taken to avoid damaging woody vegetation unless so 

directed specifically to treat. 

6. Individual Plant/Planting Station 

Effectively treat an area measuring 600 mm radius around the base of each 

plant or at locations of each planting station to control competing vegetation. 

7. Hedge, Fence, Barrier etc – Strip Spraying 

Effectively treat a linear strip, to include the base of each hedge, plant or other 

location to control competing vegetation. Care should be taken particularly 

when spraying boundaries to avoid spray drift onto neighbouring properties. 

8. Bare Ground, Shrub Beds/Planted Areas 

Effectively treat entire bare ground surface between individual trees/shrubs to 

control competing vegetation. 

9. Overall Treatment 

Normally treatment of hard surfacing. Effectively treat entire area to kill all 

established and emergent weeds/competing vegetation. 

10. Tree Pockets 

Effectively treat to control all competing vegetation, within the area of the tree 

pocket. 



PEAT POLICY - established July 1991 

Sheffield City Council's Guide to Green Purchasing 

SHEFFIELD CITY COUNCIL’S 

PURCHACING POLICY 

To Reduce the Environmental Impact of the Goods and Services Purchased by Sheffield City 

Council, whilst Maintaining their Effectiveness 

This policy is based upon the following principles/actions: 

• Where possible on environmental and economic grounds, reuse or repair existing 

products. 

• Environmentally damaging products should not be used where a suitable alternative is 

available. 

• Use of the least environmentally damaging products should be promoted. 

• When new products have to be obtained, every effort should be made to purchase 

products made of recycled and recyclable materials. 

• Products at the end of their useful life should be recycled wherever possible, and as a 

last option disposed of in the most environmentally responsible manner. 

Sheffield City Council's Guide to Green Purchasing 

Peat 

For many centuries wetland environments have been increasingly threatened by drainage, peat 

extraction and 'improvement' for agriculture. Until relatively recently, little thought had been given to 

the adverse effects of this. 

In consequence, Britain's peatlands and the many species that are totally dependent upon them have 

suffered a dramatic decline. As the range of alternatives to peat as a horticultural growing medium 

continues to expand so the need to use peat diminishes. The direct use of peat should be avoided, and 

plant suppliers should be encouraged to grow their stock in a peat free compost. 

Policy 

Do not use Peat. 

Avoid buying plants growing in Peat based Compost. 


4. REDUCTION MEASURES 

4A. Have measures been taken or are they being taken to reduce the amount of peat 

containing products bought/used/specified? 

YES …………… 

NO……………... 

(Tick) 

4B. If YES please give brief details. 

4C. Was there any EXTRA COST or SAVING MADE last year from 

REDUCTION MEASURES? 

EXTRA COST………………………………………. 

SAVING MADE……………………………………... 

(Tick) 

4D. If Yes to either please give brief details. 

5. 'ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLIER' OPTIONS. 

5A. Was any of last years purchase/specification" Environmentally friendlier" 

YES…………… 

NO…………….. 

(Tick) 

58. If Yes please give brief details of the products used/specified. 

5C. What proportion of total/used/specified was environmentally friendlier? 

1 % ………………………………..……..…..50% ……………………………………………100% 

(Tick where appropriate on the scale) 



Code of Conduct (Extract) 

This extract is taken from Sheffield City Councils internal Intranet Site. The 

Full Policy Document is 39 pages long and is available to download – for 

practical purposes it is not included with this application but is available to 

Judges if required 

1.1 This Code of Conduct for Employees is based on key principles arising 

from the work of the Nolan Committee on standards in public life; it 

outlines the minimum standards that all Council employees, casual 

workers, agency staff, contractors and volunteers must adhere to. 

1.2 Employees must comply with this Code as it forms part of their terms 

and conditions of employment. Some directorates such as Social 

Services and Education also issue supplementary codes of practice on 

employee conduct. These and the Council's security policies and 

codes of practice must also be complied with. 

1.3 The Council believes that employees are responsible for their actions. 

It is the responsibility of employees to read the Code. If any of the 

provisions contained within this Code of Conduct, related codes of 

practice or security policies are not fully understood employees must, 

in their own interests, seek clarification from their Manager or 

Personnel Advisers. 

1.4 This Code does not contain a comprehensive list of acts of misconduct. 

There may be other acts of commission or omission committed by 

employees that the Council may also view as misconduct and/or gross 

misconduct. 

1.5 The people of Sheffield expect the highest standards of behaviour and 

customer care from Sheffield City Council employees. Public 

confidence in employees' integrity would be shaken by the least 

suspicion that they could be influenced by improper motives. 

Employees must not put themselves in a position where their honesty 

or integrity could be called into question. The Council reserves the 

right to monitor its employees, including surveillance, in accordance 

with relevant legislation such as the Regulatory and Investigatory 

Powers Act, Data Protection Act and Human Rights Act to ensure that 

the provisions of this Code of Conduct are adhered to. 

1.6 Failure to observe this Code of Conduct, failure to properly perform 

employee duties, serious misconduct or criminal offences committed 

during or outside working hours which bring the employee or the City 

Council into disrepute may result in disciplinary action being 

considered, including the possibility of summary dismissal without 

notice. 

1.7.1 The Code is compatible with the conventions contained in the Human 

Rights Act. 


APPENDIX 8A 

2006 Visitor Questionnaire/Survey. 

APPENDIX 8B 

2006 Visitor questionnaire technical 

appendices. 

Available to download via our website 

http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands-countryside/trees--woodlands/ecclesall-woods/management-plan 


APPENDIX 9 

CHRONOLOGY OF ECCLESALL WOODS 

Neolithic/Bronze Age period 

Cup and ring stone present from this period 

Iron Age/Romano-British period 

Field systems and hillfort present. Potentially an agricultural landscape at this time 

with woodland confined to wet ground and streamsides 

Dark Ages 

Abandonment of field systems and reversion to woodland? 

Domesday, 1086 

The area was included in the manor of Hallam, with references to extensive woodpasture 

1317 

Robert de Ecclesall granted a licence to impark. The area imparked may have 

included what is now called Ecclesall Woods 

1586 

Whirlow Wheel first recorded 

1587 

First written record of coppice with standards management. Woodland owned by the 

Earls of Shrewsbury 

1649 

Detailed lease agreement refers to lead smelting mills and the making of charcoal 

and whitecoal, as well as use of the woodland for herbage. Woodland owned by the 

Bright family 

1674 

Ryecroft Mill first recorded 

Pre-1700 

First map of Ecclesall Woods (Wentworth Woodhouse Muniments MP 46). Undated, 

but style suggests pre-1700 


1752 

The marriage of 2 nd Marquis of Rockingham of Wentworth Woodhouse to Mary 

Bright, meant that Ecclesall Woods passed into the Rockingham land holdings. From 

the period, a very detailed chronology of coppice and other management survives 

1770 

Map of Ecclesall Woods by Fairbank depicts different named woods, 23 in all (SheD 

300L) 

1786 

Wood collier’s memorial to George Yardley erected 

1824 

Large scale tree-planting started, and continued until 1899. Most had been 

undertaken by 1845. Gradual conversion of woodland to “high forest” 

1848 

First “timber” sale recorded; ceased in 1901 

1859 

Last “fall” of coppice wood recorded. Coppice with standards management comes to 

an end 

1920 

Whirlowdale Road cut through the woodland. Site under threat from proposed 

residential development 

1927 

Ecclesall Woods purchased from Earl Fitzwilliam by Sheffield City Council, with help 

from Alderman Graves 

1928 

Ecclesall Woods officially opened as a public open space by Her Royal Highness 

Princess Mary on 23 rd August 1928 

1927 

Ryecroft Glen gifted to the City Council by J.G.Graves 


1929 

17ha of Wood 3 reserved as a bird sanctuary, where public access is discouraged 

1935 

Whirlow Wheel purchased by Sheffield City Council 

1962 

Major storm damage to the woodland, followed by construction of Ecclesall Woods 

sawmill 

1993 

Friends of Ecclesall Woods formed 

1994 

Sawmill leased to private business 

1998 

Cup and ring stone designated a Scheduled Monument 

2001 

First management plan finalised and implementation started, including re-introducing 

active woodland management 

2002 

Ecclesall Woods declared a Local Nature Reserve 

2004 

First Green Flag awarded to Ecclesall Woods 

2005 

Ecclesall Woods is the first site visited as part of the successful Entente Florale 

application by Sheffield City Council 

2006 

Sawmill returns to Sheffield City Council management 


APPENDIX 10 

BIBLIOGRAPHY 

ARCUS (2004). Archaeological trial trenching at Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield, South 

Yorkshire. Unpublished 

ARCUS (2006). Archaeological photographic survey of Whirlow Wheel, Ecclesall 

Road South, Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Unpublished 

Ardron, P (2001) Archaeological Survey and GIS Mapping of Ecclesall Woods. 

Sheffield Hallam University. Unpublished. 

Arrowsmith, P (1999) Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield: An archaeological desk-top study. 

University of Manchester Archaeological Unit. Unpublished. 

ASE (2002). Hilltop enclosure and field system Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield: 

Archaeological Survey. Unpublished 

ASE (2007). Archaeological excavation of Q-pits at Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield 

(draft). Unpublished 

Avison, C and Rotherham, I (1998) Ecclesall Woods Management Plan: Draft for 

Public Consultation. Sheffield Hallam University. Unpublished. 

Avison, C and Rotherham, I (1999) Ecclesall Woods Draft Management Plan and 

User Survey: Initial Presentation of Results. Sheffield Hallam University. 

Unpublished. 

Bevan, W (2001) Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield: Concordance and Sampling of 

Archaeological Surveys. Unpublished. 

Blockeel, T (1990) Bryophytes in Ecclesall Woods. Sorby Record 27. 

Bownes, J; Ripley, T; Rotherham, I and Vincent, M (1991) Sheffield Nature 

Conservation Strategy. Sheffield City Council. 

Countryside Commission (1998). Countryside Character and Volume 3: Yorkshire 

and Humberside. 

Crossley, D (1989). 

DEFRA (2002). Working with the grain of nature: A biodiversity strategy for England. 

Ecology Unit, SCC (1999) Natural History Report for Ecclesall Woods. 

English Nature (1996) Coal Measures Natural Area Profile. English Nature: 

Wakefield. 


English Nature (1997) Preliminary Nature Conservation Objectives for Natural 

Areas: woodland and forestry. English Nature Research Report No 239. 

Environment Agency (1999). Personal communication. 

Forestry Commission (1998). England Forestry Strategy: A new focus for England’s 

Woodlands 

Forestry Commission (1999). UK Forestry Standard: The government’s approach to 

sustainable forestry. Edinburgh: Forestry Commission 

Forestry Commission (2005). The value of trees in our changing region: The 

Regional Forestry Strategy for Yorkshire and the Humber Region. 

Firkins, G (1987). A report of the vegetation survey of Ecclesall Woods. Sorby 

Records 27. 

Friends of Ecclesall Woods (2006). Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield: a Flora. Rotherham: 

B & B Press 

Hamilton, G J (1988). Forest Mensuration Handbook. Forestry Commission Booklet 

39. London: HMSO. 

Hart, C R (1990). The Ancient Woodland of Ecclesall Woods, Sheffield. Sorby 

Record, 27. 

Hibberd, B (1991) Forestry Commission Handbook 6: Forestry Practice. London: 

HMSO. 

Kerr, G and Evans, J (1993) Growing Broadleaves for Timber. Forestry Authority 

Handbook 9. London: HMSO. 

Kirby, K (1992) Habitat Management for Invertebrates. 

Lyon, T (1997) Fungi in Ecclesall Woods. Peak District Journal of Natural History 

and Archaeology Special Publication No 1. 

Jones, M (1993) Sheffield’s Woodland Heritage. 

Jones, M and Walker, P (1997). From coppice-with-standards to high forest: the 

management of Ecclesall Woods 1715-1901. Peak District Journal of Natural 

History and Archaeology. Special Publication No 1. 

Medforth, P and Rotherham, I (1993) The Birds of Ecclesall Woods. 

Natural England (2006). Natural England Strategic Direction 2006-2009. 

Natural Route, EUCS, and Icarus (2004). Ecclesall Woods sawmill site, Sheffield: 

Feasibility Study Final Report 


Peterken, G (1993). Woodland conservation and management. London: Chapman 

and Hall. 

Public Rights of Way (1997). Public Rights of Way Survey: Ecclesall Woods. 

Rodwell (1991). National Vegetation Classification Volume I Woodlands and Scrub. 

Rotherham, I.D (2006). The Cultural Forest: A misunderstood icon. Unpublished 

proceedings from South Yorkshire Biodiversity Research Group Conference – 

Critical Issues for Ancient Woodlands; 5 th -6 th May 2006. 

Sheffield Biodiversity Steering Group (2001). Sheffield Local Biodiversity Action Plan 

Sheffield City Council (1999). Sheffield’s Parks Regeneration Strategy. Parks and 

Open Spaces 

Sheffield City Council (1999). Sheffield Countryside Strategy. Planning Services 

Sheffield City Council (2000). Sites Categorisation Strategy. Parks and Countryside 

Sheffield City Council (2001). Sheffield’s Trees and Woodlands Strategy. Parks and 

Countryside 

Sheffield City Council (2003). Sheffield Environment Strategy. 

Sheffield City Council (2005). Sheffield Cultural Strategy. 

Sheffield First Partnership (2005). City Strategy, 2005-2010 

Smyllie, W (1990) ‘Q’ Pits in Ecclesall Woods. Sorby Record 27. 

Southern Tree Surgeons Ltd (1971) Ecclesall Woods Tree Survey and Management 

Plan. Unpublished. 

UKWAS (2006). UK Woodland Assurance Standard. 2 nd edition 


LIST OF FIGURES 

The maps plans and figures below are available to download via our website 

Figure 1.1a Site location within Sheffield 

Figure 1.1b Site location within Millhouses 

Figure 1.2 Compartment map 


Figure 1.4 Services 

Figure 1.5 1770 division of Ecclesall Woods 

Figure 1.6 1850’s Ordnance Survey of the area 

Figure 1.7 Key areas and features of archaeological interest 

Figure 1.8 Ecclesall Woods sawmill site layout plan 

Figure 1.9 Access points 

Figure 1.10 Definitive rights of way and other recognised routes 


Figure 1.12 Hydrology 

Figure 1.13 Underlying Geology 

Figure 1.14 Main vegetation communities 

Figure 4.1 Proposed major management works, 2007-2011 

75

Sheffield City Boundary 

Rotherham 

Metropolitan 

Borough 

Built-up Area 

" 

Meadowhall 

" 

Hillsborough " 

Firth Park 

" 

Walkley 

City Centre 

Peak District National Park 

" 

Orgreave 

" 

Beighton 

" 

Gleadless 

" 

Woodseats 

Dore 

" 

2.5 5 

0 

kilometres 

North East Derbyshire District 

FIGURE 1.1a LOCATION of ECCLESALL WOODS within the CITY of SHEFFIELD 

Parks and 

Countryside 

Reproduced from the ordnance Survey map with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown Copyright 2006. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. OS Licence No. 100018816.2006

DAH DAH 

D 

283 

HH 

zz 

x 

244 

248 

zz 

242 

WHIRLOWDALE ROAD 

282 

231 

248 

ABBEY LANE 

t 

D 

D 

247 

D DH H D H 

ECCLESALL ROAD SOUTH 

DOBCROFT ROAD 

249 

E 

DH 

244 

z 

241 

242 

River Sheaf 

z 

250 


z 

x 

250 

240 

251 

DHF 

D 

H 

A D 

A D 

254 

z 

x 

x 

D A 

253 

241 

z 

D 

KEY 

255 

z 

LIMB LANE 

Woodland Boundary 

ABBEY 

LANE 

D 

Public Footpath 

(with Definitive Path Number) 

252 

D 

H 

D 

45 

ABBEYDALE ROAD SOUTH 

D H 

A 

z 

A D 

z 

Permissive Footpaths 

ADH H 

E 

z 

HDA 

255 

252 

A 

D 

Public Bridleways 

(with Definitive Path Number) 

18 

D 

H 

H 

D 

DHD 

Permissive Bridleways 

245 

Easy Going Trail 

Sheffield Round Walk 

246 

D DA H 

461 

500 

metres 

250 

0 

D 

256 

FIGURE 1.10 DEFINITIVE RIGHTS OF WAY and OTHER RECOGNISED ROUTES 

Parks and 

Countryside 


DAH DAH 

c 

H 

D 

f 

x 

e 

zz 

zz 

c 

d 

b 


ABBEY LANE 

D 

D 

D DH H D H 


t 

DOBCROFT ROAD 

a 

E 

DH 

114 

36.4 

c 

z 

z 

b 


z 

x 

a 

DHF 

D 

H 

A D 

A D 

115 

24.6 

z 

e 

x 

x 

D A 

c 

z 

D 

f 

k i 

z 

h 

LIMB LANE 

ABBEY 

LANE 

g 

D 

D 

H 

D 

KEY 


D H 

A 

d 

z 

b 

A D 

z 

Wood Number 

Area of Wood 

116 

78.9 

ADH H 

E 

z 

DA 

H 

j 

k 

A 

l 

f 

D 

k 

Wood Sub-compartment 

Boundaries 

D 

H 

H 

D a 

DHD 

Wood Sub-compartment 

Identification letter 

116 

78.9 

a 

D DA H m 

500 

metres 

250 

0 

D 

FIGURE 1.2 COMPARTMENT MAP 

Parks and 

Countryside 


Parks and Countryside Section 

Parks and 

Countryside 

Manager 

David Hargate 

District Parks Officer 

(South) 

Mark Lowe 

Community Tree 

Officer 

John Smith 


Parks and Countryside Service 

Trees and Woodlands Section 

Woodlands Manager 

Nick Sellwood 

Woodlands Project 

Officer 

(Education and 

Interpretation) 

Coralie Hopwood 

Woodlands Project 

Officer (Ecclesall 

Woods Sawmill site) 

Ted Talbot 

Community Services Section 

Southern Ranger Team 

Ranger 

Henk Littlewood 

Southern Ranger 

Team Leader 

Mark Colton 

Ranger 

John Amos 

NS/ecclsallwoodssitemanagementstructure/EG

Assistant Tree 

Maintenance Officer 

(South) Dan Bright 

Team Leader 

Chris Rogers 

Plus 3 arborists 

Wider Support within Development, Environment and Leisure Directorate 

Street Force 

Assistant Area 

Manager 

(Horticulture) 

Richard Payne 

Assistant Area 

Manager 

(Cleansing) 

Linda Helliwell 

Development 

Services, 

South Yorkshire 

Archaeology Service 

Assistant 

Archaeologist 

Jim McNeil 

Other Key Partners 

Friends of Ecclesall Woods 

Dore Village Society 

Sheffield Hallam University 

Working Woodlands Trust 

Tinsley Tree Project 

Ruskin Mill Educational 

Trust (Freeman College) 

South Yorkshire Forest 

Partnership 

2 

Premises and Assets 

Management 

Programme Works 

Manager 

Paul Connelly 

Highway Services 

Public Rights of 

Way Officer 

Mick Hanson 

NS/ecclsallwoodssitemanagementstructure/EG

DAH DAH 

D 

HH 

zz 

x 

zz 


ABBEY LANE 

D 

D 

D DH H D H 


t 

DOBCROFT ROAD 

E 

DH 

z 

River Sheaf 

z 


z 

x 

DHF 

D 

H 

A D 

A D 

z 

x 

x 

D A 

z 

D 

z 

LIMB LANE 

KEY 

ABBEY 

LANE 

D 

D 

H 

D 

Boundary of 



D H 

A 

z 

A D 

z 

Transco Sub-station 

ADH H 

E 

z 

DA 

H 

A 

D 

Transco Gas main 

D 

H 

H 

D 

DHD 

Yorkshire Electricity Sub-station 

Yorkshire Eletricity Pipeline 

Yorkshire Water Pipeline 

D DA H 

500 

metres 

250 

0 

D 

FIGURE 1.4 SERVICES within ECCLESALL WOODS 

Parks and 

Countryside 


MAIN 

SITE 

ENTRANCE 

ABBEY LANE 

Storage 

portacabin 

Storage 

portacabin 

 

Staff toilets & 

basic messroom 

Compost 

Bin 

Office 

portacabin 

Workshop 1 

Public 

toilets 

 

Vistors' 

Car Park 

Dehumidifier 

 

Workshop 2 

 

Pedestrian 

links to 

woodland 

Retail outlet 

& 

Gallery 37 

(in office portacabin) 

KEY 

Sawmill Site Boundary 

 

Main Vehicular Access 

FIGURE 1.8 ECCLESALL WOODS SAWMILL SITE LAYOUT PLAN 

Parks and 

Countryside 


DAH DAH 

D 

8 ) 

HH 

 

1 ) 

 

zz 

x 

zz 


ABBEY LANE 

7 ) 

t 

D 

D 

D DH H D H 

 

2 ) 


DOBCROFT ROAD 

 

 

DH ) E 

 

) 6 9 ) 

5 

10 

10 

) 

 

4 ) 

z 

z 

17 ) 17 

17 

 


z 

 

 

 

 

3 ) 

x 

12 

12 DHF 

AD H 

D 

16 16 

16 

 

15 

15 ) 

11 

11 ) 

 

 

 

) 

) 

18 

18 ) 

32 

32 ) 

A D 

z 

19 

19 19x 

x ) 20 

20 

))) 

21 

21 21 

D A 

z 

D 

z 

LIMB LANE 


ABBEY 

LANE 

13 ) 13 

13 

14 

14 ) 

23 

23 ) 

 

 

22 

22 

 

31 

31 ) 

D 

D 

H 

D 

 

30 ) 30 

30 

D H 

A 

z 

A D 

z 

24 

24 ) 

 

ADH H 

E 

z 

DA 

H 

A 

D 

D 

H 

H 

D 

DHD 

 

 

29 

29 ) 

28 

28 ) 

KEY 


25 

25 ) 

26 

26 ) 

 

Access Point and Number 

 

 

D DA H 

500 

metres 

250 

0 

D 

 

27 

27 ) 

FIGURE 1.9 ACCESS POINTS 

Parks and 

Countryside 



Parks and 

Countryside 


DAH DAH 

D 

H 

KEY 

Site Management Works 

zz 

x 


zz 

Tree-thining works 

(small scale) 

t 

Footpath Improvements 

D 

D 

D DH H D H 

Meadow Management 

E 

DH 

Coppice Management 

z 

z 

z 

x 

DHF 

D 

H 

A D 

A D 

z 

x 

x 

D A 

Other Key Outcomes 

z 

D 

Further regeneration of 

the Sawmill site 

z 

D 

Targetted archaeological 

site survey and assessment 

D 

H 

D 

D H 

A 

z 

A D 

z 

Protection and enhancement 

of key BAP species and 

habitats 

ADH H 

E 

z 

DA 

H 

A 

D 

Enlarged interpretative, 

educational and training 

programmes 

D 

H 

H 

D 

DHD 

Strengthened partnerships 

with key stakeholders 

D DA H 

D 

FIGURE 4.1 PROPOSED MAJOR MANAGEMENT WORKS 2007 - 2011 

Parks and 

Countryside

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