Although there are very few Osier trees (Salix viminalis) to be found in this copse woodland today, the Osier Bed may have historic relevance to Cranleigh as a prime source of willow for basketry and fence making.
The well known Cranleigh icon on top of the drinking fountain in Fountain Square may well allude to this at it is of a crane with its foot on a basket.
At some point it appears that the crop was switched from willow species to Hazel which is now the dominant understorey shrub species.
Bluebells thrive in the dappled shade and a wide variety of other ancient woodland indicator plants can be seen.
It remains a priority that the woodland must be preserved through improved management while allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the place without detriment to the ecology.
A group Tree Preservation Order is in force for the whole Osier Bed (TPO 01-17 W2) and Surrey Wildlife Trust Ecology Services have prepared a comprehensive management plan.
Limited public access will be afforded along a gravel path to a decked area with seating in the north-east corner. The path will be constructed using no-dig methods and paving techniques in accordance with BS 5837.
In order to avoid piling (and potential root damage), the decking structure will be held in place with earth spikes, and construction operations will be contained to the width of the existing track and space between trees.
While the deck and pathway will afford visitors the ability to appreciate the unique tranquillity of the place, it will also constrain pedestrian movement and inhibit access to the fragile woodland floor; timber or recycled plastic knee rails will line the path and the deck will be surrounded by railings.
The existing bare-earth track that runs along the northern side will be retained for maintenance access (through a lockable gate) to the woodland and the stream bank.
A dense margin of naturally regenerating vegetation supplemented with additional Hazel and Holly whip planting on the south and west sides of the Osier Bed will mature over time to deter pedestrian access from the meadows.
The future management strategy will be developed with SWT Ecology Services and incorporated into the overall landscape and ecological management plan.