Access to Bellever Forest may be affected by timber harvesting which is taking place until autumn 2025.

The forest in Postbridge will still be open to the public but walking trails, public rights of way and car parks will be closed for brief periods until the work is complete.

Several hectares of sustainably produced timber are being harvested across the forest.

Ben Philipps, Forestry England’s Dartmoor forester, said: “Bellever Forest is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. Wood is a strong and renewable material with many uses from huge construction projects, right down to small items in our own homes, like paper.

“We are working across most of the forest to thin trees where they are growing closely together. This is an essential part of sustainable forest management, and means removing selected trees to give the remaining ones more space to grow to their potential. Thinning reduces competition for resources like light and water, and also allows more light to reach the forest floor, which improves habitat for ground flora and wildlife.

“The forest is still open to visitors, but please follow all signs and instructions for your safety. We will be working in sections to minimise disruption and as long as weather conditions allow, we will be finished by autumn.”

Before any forestry work will take place ecological surveys will be carried out to check for birds, mammals, rodents, invertebrates, flora and fungi.

Forestry England says those carrying out the work will continue to check for wildlife while working and will adapt, pause or suspend work if they find any animal that must be protected.

The organisation warns that forestry work is very hazardous.

A falling tree can weigh several tonnes and hit the ground at nearly 60mph. If a harvesting machine chainsaw snaps, it can fly through the forest like a bullet.