A NEW era of accessibility was launched at Beechenhurst on Wednesday, May 21, as Forestry England unveiled a series of improvements to make the popular Forest of Dean site more inclusive for all visitors.

Representatives from Forestry England were joined by officials from partner organisations to mark the completion of the project, which includes a new 1km Glade trail, a Changing Places toilet, interactive play features, and an all-terrain mobility scooter available for hire.

The Glade trail offers a fully surfaced, gentle woodland route designed for people using wheelchairs, pushchairs, and off-road mobility scooters. The accessible play area now features a sensory rain wheel, drums, a nature wall, and an interactive walkway with smooth cork safety surfacing.

The new Changing Places toilet provides vital facilities for visitors needing extra space and equipment, including a hoist and adult-sized changing table.

In a boost to independence for less mobile visitors, an all-terrain mobility scooter – affectionately named “Wandering Willow” by public vote – is now available to hire thanks to a partnership with Countryside Mobility.

The upgrades have been delivered as part of Forestry England’s national ‘Access for All’ programme, supported by funding from DEFRA. Specialist contractors were brought in to complete the various elements of the project, including Groundrich, RISE Adaptations, PlaySmart UK, and ESP Play Ltd.

Emily Fergusson, recreation manager for Beechenhurst welcomed guests to the launch and led a guided tour of the site, showcasing the new accessible trail, play area, Changing Places toilet and mobility scooter facilities while highlighting the importance of making nature more inclusive for everyone.

After the tour, attendees gathered to hear a talk from Hayley Skipper, Director of operations – commercial visitor development at Forestry England, who spoke about the extensive work that has gone into the project both locally at Beechenhurst and across the country.