GLOUCESTERSHIRE is a step closer to the possible return of beavers to the wild, with the Forest of Dean emerging as a key location in the plans.

A new phase of the Severn Vale Beaver Project has been launched by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Forestry England following a feasibility study which identified the Forest of Dean and the River Frome as suitable areas for reintroduction.

The study found strong public support across the county, with 91 per cent of respondents backing the return of the species.

While there is still no confirmed decision, the latest stage will focus on detailed planning and engagement with communities and landowners, particularly in the Forest where the impact is likely to be most visible.

This includes working closely with farmers, foresters and residents to understand concerns and ensure any future plans are both practical and environmentally beneficial.

The Gloucestershire Beaver Feasibility Study explored whether reintroducing beavers would be viable across local catchments, assessing habitat suitability, potential benefits and risks, and the impact on people who live and work in the area.

The views of local communities were central to the process and will continue to shape the next stage of planning. The study was supported by funding from Forestry England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and private donors.

Beavers are already being monitored within enclosures in the Forest of Dean, where they are demonstrating the environmental benefits they can bring. Their natural behaviour creates wetlands, which can increase biodiversity, improve water quality and help manage water flow.

Dr Amy Fitzmaurice, Species Recovery Officer at Forestry England, said the early signs in the Forest are encouraging: “We’re already seeing beavers making a real difference in our enclosures in the Forest of Dean, restoring wetlands, creating habitat and helping to slow the flow of water.”

The Forest’s mix of woodland, streams and valleys makes it a strong candidate for supporting a wild population. Their presence could also help reduce flood risk, an ongoing issue in parts of the region.

Emma Hutchins, Director of Nature’s Recovery at Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, said the organisation is focused on working closely with local communities: “We believe that reintroducing beavers to the Severn Vale will be positive for both people and wildlife, helping to recreate lost habitats and reduce downstream flooding.”

She added that efforts will be made to ensure any impact on land use is carefully managed, with ongoing monitoring forming a key part of the project.

Beavers were once widespread across Britain before being hunted to extinction around 400 years ago. Their absence has been increasingly felt as wetland habitats come under pressure and flood risks worsen. Now recognised as a vital species for restoring ecosystems, their return is being explored as a natural way to improve resilience to climate change.

The Forest of Dean has already been part of successful wildlife projects in recent years, including the return of pine martens, and could now play a central role in another major conservation effort.