Help us save these neglected woodlands

They want Gorse Farm Wood nature reserve, off Eastwood Road, to be transformed in a bid to help boost visitor numbers.

Repair work is currently being carried out to a walkway, known as the Broadwalk, which is situated over a bog in the 15-acre nature reserve.

Work has also been done to plant heather in parts of the wood, but people also say some of the undergrowth needs thinning out.

Pathways also need improvements, they say, over concerns they are no longer suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs.

Members of the Gorse Farm Wood Friends Group also want a pool that is full of silt to be cleaned to improve its appearance.

Ward councillor Dave Hosell and campaigner Keith Allcock say the further improvements are a priority.

"We'll be working with the council and residents to improve and clean up the nature reserve," said Mr Allcock, who is standing in the Newton ward by-election next month.

Councillor Hosell added: "It is a shame to see how it has been allowed to deteriorate over time.

"The pathway isn't down yet. The tape and fencing around it has been pulled down. Grass is three or four feet high in places.

"It just needs work."

He said he would be seeking a meeting with neighbourhood teams and park department staff at the council at the site so they can see the issues for themselves.

Once work is completed, he said that pupils from nearby Ferndale Primary School could use the reserve for lessons or activities.

"It is a lovely place to have in the area," he added. "It is somewhere to go for some peace and quiet.

Friends group joint chairman Harry James said: "The council have been good in getting some work done.

"This walkway hasn't been completed. It has been about 12 months now and they need doing.

"The pool is full of silt. Ducks look like they are walking on water.

"If things could be done, maybe on a piecemeal basis at least, that would be good."

The range of habitats on the nature reserve support a variety of plants and animals.