DOGGERS and drug dealers have forced the closure of a beauty spot near Romsley.

Distraught bosses at conservation charity Woodland Trust said they had reluctantly made the decision to shut off Uffmoor Wood, located in the Bromsgrove district, as a result of a string of anti-social issues including drug dealing, inappropriate sexual activity, violent dogs and dog fouling.

The closure is temporary at this stage but Trust chiefs have not ruled out that this could become a permanent measure.

They said Uffmoor, between Hagley and Halesowen, had become one of their most problematic sites and resulted with them being inundated with complaints on a weekly basis.

Site staff have experienced the issues first hand, having been knocked to the ground by dogs at the wood, or being verbally abused by people engaged in such behaviour.

The worst offences that have occurred there include groups meeting for sex, drug abuse, dogs being attacked by other pets allowed off the leads, sheep killed on neighbouring land, dog fouling and the use of off road bikes.

Police have been called out on occasions, posters and signs put up urging people to keep dogs on leads and use the woods responsibly and wardens talking to visitors during community action days.

Chief Inspector Sharron Cannings, of West Mercia Police, said: "Officers have been working closely with the Woodland Trust following a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour at Uffmoor Wood. Officers have been regularly visiting the site on patrol.

"The ongoing incidents have unfortunately resulted in the Woodland Trust taking action to restrict access to the public space. We appreciate that this is a rare occurrence and we will continue to work closely with the Woodland Trust to ensure the safety of the area.

"If anybody has any information relating to incidents that have occurred at Uffmoor Wood, please contact West Mercia Police on 101."

Woodland Trust said the situation has got steadily worse, forcing them to temporarily close the facility from Wednesday (May 24). The closure period will also allow maintenance works to be carried out.

Gareth Hopkins, regional operations manager for the Woodland Trust, said: “This is an absolute last resort, and we’re very sad to take such severe measures.

"Drug dealing, out of control dogs and dog fouling have made this wood unsafe, despite our best efforts to work with and educate the irresponsible dog owners.

“We desperately wanted to keep Uffmoor open for all to enjoy. We hope this is not a permanent measure, and we extend our thanks to the responsible dog walkers and local people who love and care about the wood. We appreciate their patience and understanding.”

A spokesman for the Trust added it’s highly unusual for them to close a wood as they believe they are valuable resources for a community and should be accessible to everyone.