It would be a challenge to find a woodland site more difficult to work on than Stanley Ghyll.
Stanley Ghyll in Eskdale is a particularly challenging site, with extremely difficult access and a SSSI (site of special scientific interest) designation.
The work here involved the removal of four hectares of Rhododendron from the very steep-sided gorge. This required all material to be removed from the site, adding to the challenges of working vertically on the sides of the gorge. Once all the material was removed, the sides of the ghyll needed to be made safe and loose material removed to reduce the risk of falling debris.
This work was mainly carried out by specialist rope access contractors (Complete Access and Tree Services LTD) and had to be sensitive to the SSSI designated ancient woodland features that require protection. The work has helped secure the bryophyte features from the threat of the invasive Rhododendron ponticum.
The ecological health and robustness of this site has been greatly improved and has made future management easier while providing work for the local industry.
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