The refurbishment and improvement of the recreation facilities continue as I write. Work started on the car-park extension creating spaces for about 40 cars. Back in the mid 1990's we were aware that the car-park built in 1989 would need to be bigger to accommodate the ever increasing forest visitors, but funding was always the stumbling block.

Now that we all should get out for exercise, fresh air and keeping fit in the "green gym", funding has been made available from the Deputy Prime Minister's Office for improving access and enjoyment of the forest. To this end we have already upgraded the forest walks, installed a new cycle trail, improved road crossing points for walkers, horse riders and cyclists and replaced the worn out play area with new timber-play equipment, which is suitable for children of all abilities.

The most exciting facility will be the aerial walkway, which should be completed by the autumn. This wheelchair accessible path will gently ascend into the oak trees reaching a height of about 15m. It will then sweep across the forest road and descend down through a pine forest back to the lime avenue, totalling about 400m in length. There will be places along the horseshoe shaped walkway to stop and observe the forest from a squirrel's perspective and get a bird's eye view of the forest canopy and surrounding countryside.

For those of you who are worried about the peace and tranquillity of the forest, do not panic! As in the past, we have concentrated our recreation features into about 10% of the forest. This leaves over 400ha for the more intrepid explorer and lover of solitude and nature.

Andy Patmore
Salcey Forest Ranger