Portal Woodlands Sale
Portal Woodlands
Portal Woodlands is a valued and well-used local amenity for residents of Old Martlesham, Martlesham Heath and surrounding communities. Its 10 acres of woodland and open space provide an accessible setting for walking, cycling, recreation and quiet enjoyment, while also supporting biodiversity, wellbeing and access to nature close to home.
The woodland also has wider heritage and landscape significance, forming part of the setting of the former Martlesham Heath Airfield, linking to local walking routes including the Sandlings Walk, and containing a Bronze Age burial mound on site.
Portal Woodlands is now due to be sold. Martlesham Parish Council has secured Asset of Community Value (ACV) status for the woodland, and has triggered a moratorium to give time for a community bid to be prepared. However, ACV status does not guarantee a successful purchase, and the seller is not required to accept any offer made by the Council or by the community.
The Council is exploring all possible options and has welcomed expressions of support from neighbouring councils, including Kesgrave and Woodbridge, whose residents also use and value the woodland.
This is a significant undertaking for a Parish Council and there are important financial, legal and practical considerations to assess.
Over the coming months, resident feedback and evidence of community support will help inform the Council’s next steps and any potential funding discussions.
How residents can support this work:
• Volunteer to assist with the planned local leaflet distribution
• Display a Council sticker or poster where possible
• Complete the short questionnaire when it is delivered
• Provide brief written feedback on why Portal Woodlands matters to you and your household
• Consider whether you would be able to support any future community fundraising effort
• Share updates with neighbours who may wish to take part in the consultation
For more detail, please contact us via our Contact Us Form or by phone on 01473 612632 or 07355 311256
