Purton - Swindon

Site Description

Purton is a sizeable 16.6 ha recently established woodland on the outskirts of Swindon. It comprises the Woodland Creation site Purton and the much smaller WOYD, Berriman's Wood. For management purposes they are collectively known as Purton. Planted between 1998 and 2000, Purton contains a mixture of native broadleaf species, predominantly oak, ash, small-leaved lime and aspen, all establishing well.

Purton lies within the Great Western Community Forest (GWCF), which is one of 12 community forests close to major population centres in England where local people and organisations are working together to create a better environment. Local people were involved in the woodland creation from the outset - with fundraising and public events (including children’s tree planting days) having been well supported. Questionnaires seeking people's input and views were sent out to many households. Local councils were consulted and liaison between the Trust and the GWCF continues.

The site was formerly arable farmland and the old field layout can still be seen from the mature hedgerows in and around the wood. The site is very flat and lies on seasonally waterlogged neutral soils derived from impermeable Upper Jurassic Oxford Clay.

The smallish River Ray runs adjacent to the eastern boundary, with surrounding land use being almost entirely arable or pasture. The section which is Berriman’s Wood is located in the south-eastern corner; and connected by a wooden bridge over the river is Mouldon Hill Country Park, managed by Swindon Borough Council.

Management access is from the west via a farm track, which is also a bridleway. This runs along the southern boundary and also forms part of one of the Timberland Trails - a Sustrans route and Swindon’s contribution to the National Cycle Network. This one connects the west of Swindon with the centre.