

Safeguard the future of Tavistock Woodlands Estate
The Issue
Open Letter to The Right Hon. Earl of Bradford
It has recently come to light that the Tavistock Woodlands Estate may soon change ownership, which has sparked some concerns in the local community.
These woods are an invaluable habitat for wildlife and are a huge asset to the people of West Devon and neighbouring Cornwall. The work in improving access at Tamar Trails has helped people of all ages enjoy the benefits of being out in nature. This has been especially important for the community during these challenging times.
As well as helping people’s health and wellbeing, these woods act as an important carbon sink – helping reduce levels of CO2 in the atmosphere. As well as being home to the rare and threatened Heath Fritillary butterfly, thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Butterfly conservation Organisation. The woodlands are also home to an abundance of animal, insect and plant life.
This beautiful stretch of woodland has been in your family’s care since 1959. Thanks to your family, the woods have been carefully managed –pioneering a new approach to forest management and working towards a Higher Level of Stewardship, which has enhanced the woodland’s biodiversity - protecting nature while enabling public access and supporting the local economy.
We know that there are links between protected landscapes and tourism. Many visitors to the South West are motivated by visiting protected landscapes. The current crisis and awareness of carbon footprint have led to a growing trend in UK tourism. These woods are a huge asset to the area in both ecology, history and supporting our local economy.
This is a location which is held dear in our hearts and many are concerned about what a change in ownership may mean for the future of the woodland and its restoration – particularly the protection of eco-systems as well as public access. We would be grateful for some safeguards to ensure the transition to new owners continues to build on working towards a Higher Level of Stewardship.
Yours Faithfully,
Lisa Turner
Please sign and share to show support for the safeguarding of our precious local woodlands. Thank you.

1,990
The Issue
Open Letter to The Right Hon. Earl of Bradford
It has recently come to light that the Tavistock Woodlands Estate may soon change ownership, which has sparked some concerns in the local community.
These woods are an invaluable habitat for wildlife and are a huge asset to the people of West Devon and neighbouring Cornwall. The work in improving access at Tamar Trails has helped people of all ages enjoy the benefits of being out in nature. This has been especially important for the community during these challenging times.
As well as helping people’s health and wellbeing, these woods act as an important carbon sink – helping reduce levels of CO2 in the atmosphere. As well as being home to the rare and threatened Heath Fritillary butterfly, thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Butterfly conservation Organisation. The woodlands are also home to an abundance of animal, insect and plant life.
This beautiful stretch of woodland has been in your family’s care since 1959. Thanks to your family, the woods have been carefully managed –pioneering a new approach to forest management and working towards a Higher Level of Stewardship, which has enhanced the woodland’s biodiversity - protecting nature while enabling public access and supporting the local economy.
We know that there are links between protected landscapes and tourism. Many visitors to the South West are motivated by visiting protected landscapes. The current crisis and awareness of carbon footprint have led to a growing trend in UK tourism. These woods are a huge asset to the area in both ecology, history and supporting our local economy.
This is a location which is held dear in our hearts and many are concerned about what a change in ownership may mean for the future of the woodland and its restoration – particularly the protection of eco-systems as well as public access. We would be grateful for some safeguards to ensure the transition to new owners continues to build on working towards a Higher Level of Stewardship.
Yours Faithfully,
Lisa Turner
Please sign and share to show support for the safeguarding of our precious local woodlands. Thank you.

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Petition created on 20 November 2020