GLAPTON WOOD NATURE RESERVE
Introduction
Glapton wood is a mixed urban woodland which covers almost 4 hectares. The site provides valuable habitat for wildlife and offers local residents an opportunity to experience nature right on their doorstep. The site is owned by Nottingham City Council.
About the Reserve
Glapton Wood is thought to be a remnant of the old Clifton Woods, which were mostly cleared during the late 1950’s to make way for the construction of the Clifton Housing Estate. It is situated on Mercia Mudstones and dominated by oak standards with an understorey of predominantly elder and hawthorn. Other tree and shrub species include ash, Scots pine, sycamore and hazel. The ground flora includes bramble and rosebay willowherb. A number of birds can be seen in the wood including great spotted woodpecker, goldcrest, spotted flycatcher and pied wagtail. Whilst many dangerous trees have been felled a number of dead ones have been left as valuable habitat for insects and fungi.
Situated on the southern edge of the site is an interesting area of grassland, which supports a number of herbs and grasses including false oat grass, Yorkshire fog grass, agrimony, and black knapweed and ox-eye daisy.
Conservation Management
Management objectives include enhancement of the woodland structure through selective felling, coppicing and replanting. The grassland is cut annually in late summer and a number of wildflowers have been introduced in selected areas. Damage resulting from vandalism and general visitor pressure is a constant problem and people are encouraged to follow the paths provided.
The management of the site is supported by The Boots Company, through the Trust’s Wildlife Guardians Scheme. This support will enable the Trust to carry out a wide range of on site improvements and to establish closer links with the local community.
How to get there
Glapton Wood is situated in the Clifton estate (SK549339) and is accessible from Wycombe Close and Ridgemont Walk.
Further Information
If you would like further details about the reserve, or if you are interested in getting involved in the management of the site, please call the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust office on 0115 958 8242
This fact sheet has been produced with the support of Nottingham City Council
