Whiligh Estate, a private residential estate in the High Weald National Landscape, has undertaken a Spruce Site Assessment (SSA) to mitigate the risk of Ips typographus, also known as the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle. The estate is located within a proactive spruce removal area due to this heightened risk.
In October 2025, the landowner's forestry agent recommended applying for an SSA. The application process was described as straightforward, with clear guidance. An agreement offer was received within 13 working days of submission.
The assessment surveyed 31.6 hectares of the 76-hectare site, pinpointing 4.3 hectares of Norway and Sitka spruce for removal. This detailed survey helped identify approximately 700 tonnes of spruce suitable for felling, using methods such as clear felling and regeneration felling.
The SSA also uncovered operational constraints not previously accounted for in the estate's woodland management plan, including an active badger sett, watercourses, steep slopes, and fencing. This early identification allowed for necessary permissions and mitigation measures to be put in place before felling commenced.
Laura Henderson of English Woodlands Forestry noted that walking the site with a contractor for the SSA helped with costing future works, avoiding surprises for the subsequent tree health pilot. Josh Diplock, also from English Woodlands Forestry, stated that the SSA's evaluation of the Ips infestation threat and felling considerations was a key motivator for the landowner to proceed with spruce removal.