The Forestry Commission has launched a public consultation on the car park, toilet block and campsite area at Harrison's Rocks. It is asking for the public's views and ideas on the future of the site.

Have your say on Birchden Wood

Join the Forestry Commission’s online debate to discuss ideas for the future management of the toilet block, car park and campsite at Birchden Wood, near Tunbridge Wells.

The wood is important to climbers using Harrison’s Rocks but it is also popular with families, cyclists and walkers with its easy access trails and sculptures.

At present there is an agreement between the Forestry Commission and Sport England to manage and maintain the toilet block, campsite and car park. This agreement and the funding to manage the facilities expires in November 2014 and unless a viable alternative is forthcoming, the toilets and campsite may have to close.

Before any decisions are made the Forestry Commission wants to hear the views, ideas and suggestions of all visitors to Birchden Wood and Harrison's Rocks on the future of this area.

The discussion will run from 2 December until 10 January 2014.

How to take part

There are two ways to get involved:

Online

Visit the Forestry Commission’s Birchden Wood webpage where you will find more information.

The discussion provides an opportunity to share ideas and contribute your views on the future of the visitor facilities at Birchden Wood and the opportuntity to rate and comment on other suggestions, allowing a consensus view to be formed.

By Post

If you would prefer to comment by post, please write to:
Victoria Tustian
Community Officer
Forestry Commission
East of England Office
Santon Downham
Suffolk
IP27 0TJ

Please note that submissions made by post will not be added to the online discussion and will therefore not receive support from other forest users.

What Happens Next?

The initial discussion will continue until 10 January 2014, after which the Forestry Commission will consider the comments and decide how to progress.  Depending upon the level of response, the aim is to publish findings and proposals by 24 January 2014 on the Forestry Commission’s Birchden Wood web page.

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