A COMMUNITY woodland might be developed near Minehead in a joint venture by Forum 21 and Exmoor National Park Authority.

One possible site is White Cross/Woodcombe woodlands which are already well used for recreational purposes.

It is hoped to engage local people in the project, and Forum 21 is holding an outdoor meeting at the site on Monday, July 4, at 6 pm.

Anyone who is interested can see the woodland is invited to meet in Moor Road opposite the camp site. They may either give their input or just enjoy the walk, which will take about two hours

Woodlands are very important for wildlife and biodiversity and as a store for huge amounts of carbon.

But woodland also produces fuel and timber. There is a growing demand for wood fuel as a sustainable energy resource and the demand for locally grown timber is also on the increase.

Forum 21 would like to manage this site for the benefit of the community and has identified a range of skills and expertise that would be needed from the local community.

And if it works, there could be similar projects in the future.

For more information go to the Forum 21 website or contact Graham Boswell 01643 703520.