A local Hampshire County councillor has shared an update on the progress of a new nature space in Petersfield.

Councillor Russell Oppenheimer for Petersfield Hangers, confirmed that the wood at Love Lane has now been cleared of invasive Cherry laurel.

It is part of the Love Lane Space for Nature, a project to improve biodiversity and reduce anti-social behaviour at the site.

“Thanks to the excellent work of the Hampshire Monday Group (HMG) volunteers, the wood has now been cleared of invasive Cherry laurel,” said Cllr Oppenheimer.

“This non-native plant had almost taken over and it is great to see the magnificent veteran oaks freed from its clutches.

“It is great to see kids now playing in the area, I had not expected this to happen so soon!”

In addition to clearing the wood, HMG volunteers have installed wooden steps to add to the general improvement of the green space.

Cllr Oppenheimer also confirmed that he has arranged for the pile of rubble to be removed and there is still stump clearing to take place.

He added: “We want to develop the heritage aspect of the old Midhurst railway line.

“On biodiversity, we will wait and see what grows now that light is getting in again. We also need to let the soil recover from the cyanide contained in the Cherry laurel leaves.”