Pentre Wood

Pentre Wood lies opposite Chirk castle on the southern slopes of the scenic Ceiriog valley and forms an important part of the local landscape. It has a diverse ground flora, particularly along the rides and riparian (riverside) zones. It was acquired by the Woodland Trust in 1987 after the western half of the site had been clearfelled. Pentre Wood was identified as semi-natural ancient woodland (SNAW) in the 1988 ancient woodland survey completed by the Nature Conservancy Council (English Nature) who at the time of the survey identified 64 different vascular plants on the site. The SNAW status is derived from the continuity of woodland usage at the site and its diversity of ground flora rather than the structure of the existing woodland blocks. The ecological importance of the river Ceiriog and its riparian zone has been highlighted by its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by English Nature and the Countryside Council for Wales. The Shropshire Wildlife Trust has also acknowledged the valleys importance and the site is incorporated in one of the Trusts Prime Sites for Conservation (Ref. No SJ 2309).