Context

CLD Fencing Systems helped world-leading research facility, BIFoR (Birmingham Institute of Forest Research) protect the future of forests around the globe with forest fencing and gate systems.

Funded by a £15m donation, the 10-year Free-Air Carbon Enrichment Plan (FACE) takes 30m patches of 160-year old oak trees established in English woodland and studies how forests will respond to future increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide (Co2).

A forest fence system was required to protect trees and equipment during the 10-year research plan as any interference could jeopardise the study.

Work undertaken

CLD's Securus-Lite fencing was chosen for the project, matched with a range of double- and single-leaf Lockmaster swing gates at 3m high.

Securus-Lite is a cost-effective high-security system that is manufactured from 90% British and European steel, allowing CLD to match the ‘green’ aspect of the project.

Galvanised and polyester powder-coated in a dark green (RAL 6005), it blends in with the woodland landscape.

One challenge was to maintain a hard-wearing boundary around the project at all times whilst allowing for the passage of wildlife into the site. This lead to the design of bespoke animal gates so that badgers, foxes and small deer could pass through at will.

Outcome

The 15-year guarantee, which is available on all CLD systems, provides peace of mind that the security demands of the project will be met.