Fitches Plantation

Wood, Forest in Essex Epping Forest

England

Fitches Plantation

Variable Message Sign on the M25 at Copthall Green Variable message signs (VMS), also sometimes referred to as matrix signs, are electronic traffic signs used on motorways (and some other major routes) to give drivers information about special events and to warn them about traffic congestion, accidents, incidents, roadworks or speed limits on specific sections of the route. They may also suggest (or instruct) drivers to take alternative routes, limit speed, warn of the duration and location of the incidents or just inform them of the traffic conditions. Drivers carrying freight bound for the cross-channel port of Dover are instructed to use the M20 by this sign. — Variable Message Sign on the M25 at Copthall Green Credit: David Dixon

Fitches Plantation is a 200-acre woodland located in the county of Essex, England. Situated within the larger area of Wood, Forest, it is considered a remarkable natural asset in the region. The plantation is characterized by its diverse range of flora and fauna, attracting nature enthusiasts, researchers, and visitors alike.

The woodland is predominantly made up of native species such as oak, beech, and birch trees, which create a dense and lush canopy. This provides a suitable habitat for numerous animal species, including deer, badgers, foxes, and a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

Fitches Plantation boasts a network of well-maintained walking trails that wind through its picturesque landscape, allowing visitors to explore its beauty at their own pace. These paths are suitable for all levels of fitness and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The woodland is also home to a small stream that meanders through the plantation, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere. This water source not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also supports the diverse range of plants and animals that inhabit the area.

Fitches Plantation is open to the public year-round, with guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the ecological importance of the woodland. The plantation also hosts educational programs and workshops for school groups and nature enthusiasts, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and the preservation of natural habitats.

In conclusion, Fitches Plantation is a thriving woodland in Essex, offering a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

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Fitches Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.698796/0.074904009 or Grid Reference TL4302. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Variable Message Sign on the M25 at Copthall Green

Variable message signs (VMS), also sometimes referred to as matrix signs, are electronic traffic signs used on motorways (and some other major routes) to give drivers information about special events and to warn them about traffic congestion, accidents, incidents, roadworks or speed limits on specific sections of the route. They may also suggest (or instruct) drivers to take alternative routes, limit speed, warn of the duration and location of the incidents or just inform them of the traffic conditions. Drivers carrying freight bound for the cross-channel port of Dover are instructed to use the M20 by this sign.

David Dixon

Emergency Refuge Area on the M25 near Bell Common

“Smart” motorways deploy traffic management methods to increase capacity and reduce congestion in busy areas and at peak times. These methods include using the hard shoulder as a ‘live’ lane and enforcing variable speed limits to control the flow of traffic. Emergency refuge areas (ERAs) are located on smart motorways and designed to offer a ‘safe haven’ for stranded vehicles on busy vehicles. They are positioned up to every 1.5 miles apart, with an emergency telephone available to request assistance. Emergency refuge areas are only to be used in the event of a breakdown or an accident. They are not to be used for a rest stop, to make a phone call or to use the toilet. To increase visibility, each ERA has been designed using a highly visible orange road surface and a large blue sign featuring an orange SOS telephone symbol. Stranded motorists should use the SOS telephone to speak to a representative at Highways England who will provide further instructions.

David Dixon

London Orbital Motorway approaching the Bell Common Tunnel

The proposed route of the motorway in this area was forced into a very narrow gap between the ecologically important Epping Forest to the south and the settlements to the north. The decision was therefore made to put the motorway underground. The tunnel, which is 470 metres long and is situated between junctions 26 and 27 of the motorway, was constructed between 1982 and 1984 using the cut and cover Link

method. It opened in January 1984 (at the same time as the Holmesdale Tunnel which is of similar construction). A major refurbishment scheme occurred in 2009.

David Dixon

Bell Common Tunnel, M25 Clockwise

The proposed path for the motorway in this region was squeezed into a narrow gap between the ecologically important Epping Forest to the south and the settlements to the north. Due to this, the motorway was constructed underground in a tunnel that spans a length of 470 metres. This tunnel is situated between junctions 26 and 27 of the motorway. It was built between 1982 and 1984 using the cut-and-cover Link

method. The tunnel was opened to the public in January 1984, along with the Holmesdale Tunnel, which was constructed in a similar manner. A major refurbishment scheme was carried out in 2009.

David Dixon

Copped Hall

The original house was a retreat for Princess Elizabeth now in ruins but Copped Hall was a later structure which is now a burnt shell but is cared for by a trust.

Jack Hill

Copped Hall Greenhouses

These greenhouses are in a very poor state and will probably fall apart due to lack of funds

Jack Hill

The White House near Copped Hall

The White House with its red roof stands out against the blue sky and the oilseed rape in the foreground.

Christine Matthews

Bell Common Tunnel

The M25 goes underground at this point to save the ecology. Deep beneath Epping Forest for quarter of a mile or so.

Roger May

Cobbinsend Road near Waltham Abbey

View looking south along the lane over the bridge over Cobbin's Brook towards Fernhall Farm

Nigel Cox

Farmland near Epping

Taken near to Bury farm, looking across farmland towards a small valley.

Andrew Dann

Beeches on Ambresbury Banks

Ambresbury Banks is an Iron Age hill fort, situated at one of the highest points of Epping forest.

Eleanor Dann

Centenary Walk near Epping Thicks

The Centenary Walk is a broad path, running for many miles through Epping Forest. The photo was taken on the descent from Ambresbury Banks towards Epping. This area has many old beech pollards, coppards and other variations on mature beech. This is an unusual tree; it doesn't look like most old pollards, but I don't know how it came to be this way.

Eleanor Dann

The Cottages, Long Street, near Copthall Green

Christine Matthews

Newhouse Farm, Long Street, Copthall Green

Newhouse Farm, Copthall Stud, Long Street, Copthall Green

Christine Matthews

Farm buildings at Newhouse Farm, Long Lane

Christine Matthews

Cottages, Crown Hill, Copthall Green

Cottages, Crown Hill, Copthall Green near Upshire, Essex

Christine Matthews

Cemetery - Epping, Essex

This cemetery is situated along Bury Lane (B182).

Catherine Edwards

Copped Hall, Crown Hill, Epping

Copped Hall is a burnt-out shell of a fine Georgian mansion – superbly sited on a ridge overlooking its landscaped parkland. The mansion is visible from the M25 which passes through a corner of the park. The mansion and gardens are situated on a site of ancient human habitation. Important buildings were demolished when the present mansion was built. From 1986-1995 a campaign was successfully fought by a few dedicated individuals against repeated large scale aggressive development proposals for the mansion and parkland. Three of these individuals set up the Copped Hall Trust – which finally saved the mansion and gardens by purchasing them in 1995. The Corporation of London had already saved the surrounding parkland by purchasing it in 1992. The main aim of the Trust is to permanently protect the site, to carefully restore Copped Hall and its gardens for educational and community benefit. Copped Hall and its gardens are strictly private but can be visited by appointment and on specific days.

Christine Matthews

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Fitches Plantation is located at Grid Ref: TL4302 (Lat: 51.698796, Lng: 0.074904009)

Administrative County: Essex

District: Epping Forest

Police Authority: Essex