Trees, woodlands and hedgerows

Find out what can be done to help conserve trees and woodlands in West Sussex.

West Sussex is a fantastic place to live and work. From Chichester to Crawley and from Bognor Regis to Burgess Hill we have stunning landscapes, coastlines and countryside.

Our challenge is to ensure that the special character and environment of West Sussex is protected and enhanced whilst supporting a growing and diverse economy and the wellbeing of all residents.

Trees, woodlands and hedgerows are one of the county's greatest assets and are vital for sustaining wildlife habitats and creating a pleasant and sustainable environment. 

West Sussex is the second most wooded county in the country (after Surrey) with about 19 per cent of the land area wooded. Over half of the wooded area is covered with traditional broadleaf trees, with the rest being made up of coniferous species and open scrub woodland.

How you can help

  • If you are interested in having an active role in conserving and enhancing trees in your local area, you can volunteer to become a tree warden.
  • Buying local woodland products, everything from construction timber to charcoal and woodfuel, supports the sustainable management of woodlands as well as helping wildlife and supporting the rural economy.
  • Before carrying out any work on a tree find out if it is protected by a Tree Preservation Order or is in a conservation area.
  • Report any trees or hedges that are a danger to road users or pedestrians. 

Additional information

Trees and woodlands

Hedgerows

 
Last updated:
30 November 2023
Share this
Share this

Do you have any feedback about this page?

Help us improve this website

Let us know if this page was helpful so we can make improvements. Add a star rating and leave your feedback below to show how useful you found this page.

Rate this page:
Clear star rating...
  • West Sussex County Council will only use this email address to respond to any issues raised.