Restoration after Ash Dieback works

Visitors to Granary Way in Horsham may have noticed some changes to the area which is carefully managed by our Parks and Countryside team specialists.

The ash trees in the woodland have been subject to Ash Dieback works since 2022, with the most recent phase of the project starting in early December 2025. Sadly, the ash trees had deteriorated to such an extent that to meet our health and safety obligations, it was necessary to remove all those affected at this location.

Exciting work to restore this area and enhance the environment for visitors and wildlife has now begun. The team, working under the guidance of licensed ecologists, have provided alternative bat habitats within the woodland to replace those lost through these essential works.

The next stage in the process has included spreading woodchip across the ground to ease compaction from the machinery and help to restore the forest soil. Work has also begun to replant appropriate species including wild cherries, oaks, Douglas firs, limes, hazels, birches, and crab apples. We look forward to sharing more updates as these establish.