RADICAL changes in Government policy towards woodland management are set to impact on the face of the Chilterns landscape.
The new rules will see a greater emphasis on semi-natural native woodland, at the expense of conifer plantations.
A programme of tree felling has been ordered of all foreign species, giving room for the native oak, ash and beech to flourish.
The Chilterns, one of the most wooded areas in England, will see a gradual change as many conifers will be replaced with a more broad-leafed woodland which is better suited to wildlife.
Steve Rodrick, chief officer of the Chilterns Conservation Board, said: "This is a welcome move, which will encourage wildlife and improve the appearance of the Chilterns landscape.
"Our native woodland is greatly loved and it is very heartening to hear that the Government will be tackling the threats it faces such as over-grazing by deer, competition from introduced alien' species and the effects of climate change."
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