THE Three Counties Agricultural Society is carrying out a full safety review of a wood in Malvern, it announced this week.

The statement comes a month after the society closed Langdale Wood, off Blackmore Park Road, in Malvern, to the public.

The society had previously seen its planning application to build holiday lodges there turned down by Malvern Hills planners.

The statement says: “We are aware that there has been some confusion and upset surrounding the recent closure.

“We would like to clarify the reasons behind this closure.

“Part of the wood was bought in 1975 by the society from the Ministry of Defence, which had used it as a training area.

“Since that time, this area has been transformed into an attractive, tree-shaded, open area.

“It is the creation of much effort and expense by the society.

“The wood is a working asset of the society and is used as an extension to the camping and caravan amenities.

“Over many years, and in agreement with the Forestry Commission, tree felling and re-planting has taken place. During these times the wood is closed to the public.

“Considerable cost goes into maintaining and operating the wood. The wood provides a unique facility and is a vital part of the Three Counties business.

“Access to the wood by the public has only ever been with the society’s permission and, strictly speaking, the public have no rights of access without the society’s consent.

“Therefore, the society, like other landowners, is entitled to close its property to the public. On this occasion the area is closed for a full safety review.

“We have significant duty of care concerns and do not want to take a risk with people’s safety.

“The board of trustees have requested a full report on all aspects of the society’s woodland, and this work is currently under way.”

The society’s planning application for 50 holiday lodges and a reception building in the woodland aroused fierce opposition from people who enjoy walking there, who said that the development would harm wildlife and destroy a sanctuary for nature.