If You Go Down To The Woods Today….
Net Zero. The government has targets that are arguably unachievable whilst outside influences continually deflect them. Political, financial and practical issues all contrive to move the goal posts. On the ground level whilst we recognise the urgent need to ensure the lifespan of the planet on a daily basis it has to balance with our individual circumstances which are being tested to the limit in financial terms at present.
The Middle East war is having a massive impact on fuel prices so oil central heating is proving less viable whilst probably the most efficient. It isn’t easy to switch to other sources without additional expense, even assuming it is possible.
Rural Devon is lucky inasmuch as the alternative source of heating is readily available – wood. This too is targeted as less acceptable in terms of a carbon footprint and wood burners specifically. Nearly every rural house I see in Devon has a wood burner – or two. It is both practical and what better than sitting by an open fire for warmth. So, practicality ignores the bigger picture as often there is no alternative.
Alongside increasing fuel expenditure, associated costs add to the burden. Buildings insurance requires ever more compliance, particularly with thatched houses of which Devon has plenty. So, who do we follow? In my opinion, it isn’t possible to meet all the dictates handed out and comply with financial constraints, so in most cases the status quo rules, as the alternative is either too costly to implement or impractical.
Heat source pumps work well in new properties but aren’t as effective in traditional buildings where insulation levels are significantly less. Oil and gas are the cleanest form of heating but many will still prefer solid fuel –wood pellet boilers and log burners.
In recent years there have been diseases affecting a number of trees. Most significantly, ash dieback has decimated the ash forests. The questionable positive is that ash is probably the best wood to burn for heat and efficiency. Harder woods like oak give less heat and are slow burning, whilst soft woods like pine need years to dry out to be efficient, but then burn too quickly.
It’s not all doom and gloom – life never is! Driving throughout Devon in Springtime is a showcase of beauty with trees bursting into life. It’s hard to imagine a landscape less beautiful and one that can provide sources of heat without relying entirely on the world’s sources. Adjustments to lifestyles will ensure continuity and retain the beauty of the county. Maybe old-fashioned values return in terms of lifestyle – a nod to semi self- sufficiency.
For those lucky enough to have a rural lifestyle in Devon, trees will play a significant part, and owning a property with woodland has to be appealing. Remember logs warm you twice – once when chopping them and once when burning them! They make a home: “It’s all about coming home”.
Woodland Homes:
The Old Rectory. Loxhore: Grade 11 listed former rectory in private setting with annexe and coach house set in 6.6 acres beautiful gardens and grounds including some woodland.
Brimptsmead, Dartmeet: Edwardian former hunting lodge in elevated setting within 9 acres with direct moorland access, private river frontage with fishing rights. 2 cottages, party barn, woodland and meadow.
Benshayes Farm, Bampton: Listed farmhouse, 4 bedroom residential barn, 2 bedroom cottage, farm buildings – 212 acres estate with agricultural land, woodland and private family shoot – unique family estate.
Cliff Cottage, Rousdon: “Off grid” home with additional studio annexe in magical woodland setting enjoying total privacy within designated East Devon National Nature Reserve. Nearby South West Coast path.
Hepburn House. Diptford, Totnes: Stunning eco friendly home and annexe accommodation in rural setting beside River Avon set in 20 acres with woodland, fishing rights and equestrian facilities.