ALLEGATIONS of unlawful operations in a Church Lench wood are set to be discussed by district councillors today.

Among the complaints to be discussed by Wychavon's planning committee are that rubble has been deposited on woodland rides and footpaths, a building in the wood has been used for residential purposes and that off-road vehicles are rutting footpaths.

The investigation into the use of the 110-acre wood began after people living near the wood expressed concern over the use of the site.

Planning officer Tim Williams said: "We have launched an investigation, which was generated by the complaints of residents."

Landowner Martin Fernihough, the owner of Old Yew Hill Wood, has described the allegations as 'rubbish' and says that he is helping make the area a haven for wildlife. He said: "It is ridiculous. "The work I have been doing is approved and licensed by the Forestry Commission.

"I have been laying down brick rubble to improve access to the wood so I can thin it out and look after it properly.

"There is already more wildlife in there than ever before.

"I allow 4x4 vehicles in only once a year and all the proceeds from the event go to the County Air Ambulance.

"I also let local children use their scramble bikes in there - but only occasionally."

He also denied that the building was being used for residential purposes. He said: "The people who are complaining are doing their best to find problems, even when they are not there."

The current investigation follows a meeting earlier this month attended by the district council, county council, the Forestry Commission and the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England.

Chairman of the local branch of the CPRE Tom McDonald said: "There has been complaints from various sources, and we are all trying to find out if there is a problem or not."