Tree Felling and Hazard Management Contract at Langley Wood National Nature Reserve

Natural England is seeking a qualified contractor to fell and manage hazardous ash trees and other trees along roads and footpaths at Langley Wood National Nature Reserve. The work must be completed by 28 February 2027 to protect nesting birds. Key Requirements: - Supplier must employ a trained, qualified person to inspect Potential Roost Features (PRFs) for bat roosts before felling trees marked with PRFs. Submit supporting training documentation with your quote. - Climbing ash trees is prohibited. - Trees marked with numbers should be felled; trees with yellow dots at the base should be reduced or dead-wooded. - Trees with PRFs that cannot be safely accessed must not be felled; document these and report to Natural England. - Felling must minimize damage to adjacent trees. Limited coppicing of hazel and felling of birch for directional clearance is acceptable, as is minor oak branch damage (below 10cm diameter) if no bat roosts are affected. - Main boles of trees 15cm diameter or larger should be left whole if not on paths or boundaries; other timber should be stacked in 2m lengths. - Vehicle access is restricted to designated hard standing and marked tracks only. Purple tracks on the site map are for 4x4 vehicles only; other tracks are for ATVs/quad bikes. Any ground damage must be repaired at the contractor's cost. - No felling beyond the reserve boundary without prior agreement. This is a sensitive ecological project requiring experience with protected species compliance and woodland management.