Why were orchids destroyed in Hamsterley Forest?

Orchids were reportedly destroyed during track improvement work by Forestry England to facilitate logging operations.

What did Forestry England say about the orchid destruction?

Forestry England stated that on-site surveys found no concerns about protected orchid species, although they noted orchids are present throughout the forest.

Which orchid species were affected in County Durham?

The affected orchids were identified as common spotted and northern marsh orchids, with the latter primarily found north of the Severn to Humber line.

Home / Environment / Orchid Patch Devastated by Forestry Work

Orchid Patch Devastated by Forestry Work

10 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Orchids destroyed during track improvement work for logging.
Forestry England claims surveys found no protected species concerns.
Local residents express anger over avoidable destruction of habitat.

Orchid Patch Devastated by Forestry Work

Routine track resurfacing work by Forestry England in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham, has allegedly led to the destruction of a significant orchid patch. The work, conducted in November to prepare a track for logging operations, involved creating ditches and resurfacing the route to Mayland Bank.

Local residents and dog walkers expressed dismay, with one stating the plants were "chopped down to the clay" and lamenting the lack of consideration for the orchid habitat, which also supports insect populations. Forestry England maintained that on-site surveys identified no concerns regarding protected orchid species, while acknowledging the general presence of orchids within the forest.