A FORMER warden for the Wyre Forest claims legally-protected habitats are being destroyed by work which English Nature says is designed to benefit rare butterflies.

Bewdley man John Robinson, 22 years a warden before retiring in 1999, fears the Wyre Forest management plan has been scrapped and vegetation that had been "nurtured for many years" is being obliterated.

English Nature's scheme involves widening rides in Town Coppice off Dry Mill Lane in Bewdley during this month and December.

But spokesman Rob Williams said there had "categorically not" been any illegal destruction of habitats.

English Nature officials said the work will provide access for people to enjoy the woodland and was vital for rare pearl bordered fritillary butterflies to flourish and that charity Butterfly Conservation welcomed the plans.

They had brought in a large specialist machine to clear rides and remove tree stumps that "currently prevent proper management for wildlife", creating rides with a range of vegetation ideal for the dormouse, garden warbler, whitethroat, glow worm, dor beetle and adder.

But Mr Robinson bemoaned the "sudden drastic measures" and predicted a public backlash against the scheme.

He said: "The devastation is easily visible. Walk down the old railway track to Lodge Hill, go over the bridge, across the top meadow with the anthills in and over the stile for a few yards.

"The rich side vegetation, that we nurtured for many years, is being destroyed. The habitats for many species - some protected by law - have been destroyed.

"I am not against management by any means. It has to be done - but this is way over the top," he added.

"Why is it that so much valuable habitat is being destroyed, when that same habitat is the very one English Nature say they are hoping to achieve?"

Mr Williams said the work was essential to ensure the fritillary butterfly remained in the woods.