THE RESTORATION of a Nelson park got under way this week with tree felling which aims to protect the future of the woodland.

The management work at Marsden Park has been recommended by consultants who carried out a full arboricultural survey. They found that many of the park's sycamore, oak and beech trees, which are between 60 and 120 years old, have been planted too close together. This has meant that over the years the trees have formed a dense canopy, competing for light, nutrients and water. The trees have become 'spindly' and the ground beneath is sparse with fewer woodland plants than would be expected.