Balancing Access and Ecology in Woodland Path Construction

Client: Hampshire County Council

Sector: Public Access, Woodland Management & Tree Safety

Contract Duration: 2 weeks

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Project Overview

Euroforest was commissioned by Hampshire County Council to design and construct a 1 km multi-use woodland path, improving public access within a managed woodland environment. The route was designed to accommodate high pedestrian footfall, cyclists, and occasional vehicle access for woodland management, maintenance, and emergency services.

The project required a sustainable woodland infrastructure solution that balanced durability, safety, and environmental sensitivity, while enhancing long-term access for the local community.

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Client Consultation & Project Development

Working closely with the local authority, Euroforest developed a solution aligned with the Council’s requirements for longevity, performance, and visual integration within a sensitive woodland setting.

A key objective was the use of locally sourced, environmentally appropriate materials. Following consultation with regional suppliers, Fittleworth self-binding gravel was selected due to its:

• Proven performance on woodland access routes
• Excellent compaction and drainage characteristics
• Natural appearance suitable for conservation and public access sites

The material was quarried approximately 20 miles from site, supporting sustainable sourcing and reducing transport impacts.

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Site Surveying, Access Planning & Material Management

Comprehensive woodland surveys and site assessments were undertaken prior to construction to inform design and minimise environmental impact. These included:

• Detailed topographical surveys to determine cut-and-fill requirements and sub-base depths
• Accurate material volume calculations to support efficient delivery planning and reduce vehicle movements
• Careful route alignment to avoid sensitive ecological features, protect tree root protection areas, and maintain woodland health

This approach ensured the works met best practice standards for forestry operations and woodland construction.

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Drainage Design & Ground Engineering

Initial site investigations identified a section of persistent waterlogging, presenting a risk to long-term path performance.

To address this, Euroforest designed and installed a French drain system as part of the ground engineering works. The drainage solution:

• Intercepted groundwater flows
• Improved infiltration and surface water management
• Reduced hydrostatic pressure beneath the path structure

This ensured the access route would remain stable, safe, and usable throughout the year.

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Woodland Path Construction

Following completion of drainage works, the construction phase included:

• Installation of a granular sub-base, engineered to support pedestrian traffic and light vehicle loading
• Application of the self-binding gravel surface, spread, levelled, and compacted to create a durable and visually sympathetic finish
• Formation of a gentle camber to encourage effective surface water runoff and minimise future maintenance
• Continuous quality control checks to ensure consistent depth, gradient, and compaction across the full 1 km route

All works were carried out with consideration for woodland safety, tree protection, and public use.

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Project Outcome

The completed scheme provides Hampshire County Council with a robust, low-maintenance woodland access route that supports recreation, active travel, and woodland management activities.

The combination of effective drainage, engineered construction, and a natural self-binding surface ensures long-term durability, year-round usability, and minimal visual impact within the woodland landscape. The project successfully enhances public access while maintaining the ecological integrity of the site.

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