Southwood Woodland

Southwood Woodland is owned by Rushmoor Borough Council who are improving the area to
make it more accessible for people to use. A series of footpaths have been developed, but this is only the first element of a major improvement scheme
to balance the requirements of wildlife and amenity to provide a valuable natural resource for the community. The site was officially opened to the public by Mayor Cllr Alan Ferrier in October 2008.

The site includes large areas of regenerating Birch, together with mature Oak field boundaries. Holly
and Hazel are other common species. Areas of
Alder Carr, grassland and heathland form localised important habitats and ground flora includes Bluebells and ferns.

Brief history

Southwood was originally farmland, divided via field boundaries and drainage channels.
Ordnance Survey plans first show areas of woodland developing at the beginning of the 20th century and by 1966 the site was, with a few exceptions, completely wooded.

Conservation group

The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership is working in partnership with Rushmoor Borough Council to establish a local community group to look after the site, which is designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).

Work parties will take place on the fourth Sunday
of every month from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Anyone can come along as tools and training will be provided.  More details >>>

Location

Access is via the southern end of Kennel’s Lane off Iveley Road, Farnborough, just north of the Cody Technology Park.

Further information

• Press release about first work party at Southwood Woodland.
• Would you like to get involved? Contact Stuart Croft on 01252 331353 or by e-mail