Case Studies

Pigshill Wood Restoration

Pigshill and Clarrick Woods is a 66-acre, community-managed woodland on the Rame Peninsula (Section 11). Nestled within Cornwall’s Protected Landscape, the site is also designated as a County Wildlife Site and includes areas of ancient semi-natural woodland that have stood for over 400 years. 

In 2013, the Pigshill and Clarrick Woods Community Interest Company (CIC) was established to manage the woods under a long lease. Their vision is to create an educational, working woodland that champions ecology, community involvement, and the development of a sustainable business model. 

Through the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme, the CIC has received vital support for its Woodland Restoration Project. Funding has enabled the purchase of essential tools for woodland management and provided training and resources to build a strong volunteer network. A specialist consultant worked closely with the CIC and volunteers, offering site-specific advice on coppicing, water and pond management, and designing a practical programme of restoration activities. 

The project also delivered hands-on training in traditional skills such as scythe use, coppicing, and tree aftercare. A series of community events helped engage local residents, share knowledge, and inspire participation—ensuring that the woodland remains a thriving, biodiverse space for generations to come. 

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