WORK has started to install an enclosure fence as part of a project to reintroduce beavers to Wyre Forest. 

Forestry England and Natural England are working together with experts at the Beaver Trust, to reintroduce beavers to the forest.

Plans are in place to introduce two adult beavers into a fenced enclosure in Spring 2024. It be will be approximately five hectares in size, and will be located along a tributary close to the Dowles Brook.

Forestry England confirmed that work to install the enclosure fence started on Thursday January, 18, and will take up to six weeks. 

They said there will be minimal disruption to visitors and asked walkers to follow all safety signage and any instructions from staff. 

A Forestry England spokesperson said: "The beaver’s dam building behaviour also help to alleviate this flooding by holding larger volumes of water in the natural pools. The dams are permeable allowing water to be gradually released downstream so the dams will slow the flow of water. 

"This is important for our woodlands, slowing the flow of water at times of heavy rainfall can help with flowing downstream, and holding water in woodlands high in the catchment could help in times of drought.

"They were once hunted to extinction but we are now working to reintroduce them across the country. 

"After successful projects in the Forest of Dean and Yorkshire, Wyre Forest has been identified as a perfect place for beavers".