Conservation work is set to begin in a woodland area in order to make it more accessible and provide a home for wildlife.

Nomansland Common, near Ferrers Lane, Wheathampstead has poor quality hawthorn trees crowding some of the woodlands.

They are to be cut back to make more space for the oak trees that characterise the area and as a result, more light should reach the woodland floor a to help stimulate new tree seedlings and encourage ground flora to develop.

The work, which is managed by Herts County Council’s Countryside Management Service (CMS), is expected to begin at the end of the month and is being funded by St Albans council.

Similar work is carried out every few years at the common to ensure the long-term sustainability of the area.

Cllr Beric Read, the council’s portfolio holder for community engagement, said: “This work will help maintain the woodland so that it continues to provide a home for wildlife and a beautiful natural environment for everyone to enjoy.”