Colchester woodland hit by anti-social behaviour and litter

The green area was gifted to Colchester Council about 15 years ago when the neighbouring Solus and Quarters estates were built in Berechurch and Monkwick.

But the woodland, which sits between Rose Allen Avenue and Berefield Way, has been tarnished by graffiti, fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

Berechurch councillor Martyn Warnes called on the town hall to “get a grip” on the problem as he feels residents are being “short-changed”.

Mess - overgrown brambles have swallowed abandoned fencing (Image: Newsquest)

Fly-tipping - a sofa dumped in the woodland (Image: Newsquest)

“This intended community asset is not being properly maintained and is no longer a welcoming space,” said Mr Warnes.

“It has brambles taking over, beer cans littered around, graffiti on tree trunks and fly-tipping spoiling the area.

“This leisure space is no longer fit for purpose and needs urgent attention and proper maintenance going forward.”

The woodland was originally secured by a wooden fence with kissing gates to keep off-road motorcyclists out.

Call for action - Berechurch councillor Martyn Warnes (Image: Newsquest)

Graffiti - trees have been vandalised by graffiti (Image: Newsquest)

“Now the fencing is tumbled down in places and the kissing gates wedged wide open,” added the councillor.

“The council needs to get a grip and sort this out and make this woodland something the community can once again be proud of.”

However, a Colchester Council spokesman argued the authority is “committed” to ensuring the site is a “safe and enjoyable place”.

He said: “We have been proactive in repairing damage and dealing with reports of anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping, but we need the help of residents and the wider public to keep the woodland clean and safe.

Damaged - the site is meant to be protected by fencing (Image: Newsquest)

“The woodland is a valuable asset for the community, providing a place for people to enjoy nature, exercise and relax, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it.

“However, it has been the target of anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping in recent months. This is not only unsightly, but it is also dangerous.”

The spokesman said the council wants residents and visitors to the site “to report any incidents of anti-social behaviour or fly-tipping to us immediately”.

He added: “We will take action to investigate and take appropriate action.”