England to get first new national forest in 30 years
England’s first national forest in three decades to see 20 million trees planted across the Western region.
The new 2,500 hectare Western Forest will be planted across Bristol, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Somerset over the coming decades.
These plans come as part of the government’s pledge to create three new national forests across England.
Nature minister Mary Creagh notes how the new forest will “bring nature closer to people” as well as supporting nature and aid in the mitigation of flooding.
“The government was elected on a mandate to plant three new national forests this parliament, as part of our commitment to reach net zero and drive sustainable growth under the government’s plan for change.”
Spearheading the planting is Forest of Avon, England’s Community Forests. Alex Stone, chief executive comments:
“This is about resource, funding and expertise coming directly to landowners, partners and communities, planting millions of trees in the right places. Together, we will enhance landscapes for all to enjoy, improving the lives of our 2.5 million residents and visitors to the region.”
This news comes after the planting of 9.8 million trees in the Midlands national forest. National forest chief executive John Everitt OBE says:
“The Western Forest was selected because of its ability to demonstrate a similar scale of ambition, with trees and woods supporting growth and farming while enhancing nature’s recovery and access to green space.”
Planting is predicted to be completed by 2050.