Growing new woodlands

aerial view of a growing forest and river

Growing the nation's forests

We're expanding England's forests, planting new, resilient woodlands that will benefit people, wildlife, and the climate for generations to come. 

Since 2021, we've planted nearly 3 million trees across more than 30 new woodlands, from Devon to Northumberland, and we're just getting started. We're now committed to creating another 5,000 hectares of new woodland by 2031.

Why do we need more woodlands?

For climate

New woodlands capture carbon, improve soil health, and help reduce flooding. They play a vital role in climate mitigation and adaptation.

For wildlife

Every new woodland creates and connects habitats across the landscape, making space for wildlife and helping nature recover.

For people

Our new woodlands are all open to the public. We work closely with local communities to make sure each woodland suits their needs.

For timber

By creating new sources of sustainable timber, we're reducing the UK's reliance on imported wood and supporting the green economy.

Long grass in foreground, followed by arable field, and established woodland in background
Person crouched over, planting a tree sapling in grass.

How we create new woodlands

Creating a new woodland takes time and careful thought. Before a single tree goes in the ground, our teams survey the land in detail, looking at soil, wildlife, landscape, and nearby habitats. 

We use that evidence to design a woodland that's right for that particular place, working with local communities and experts throughout to make sure it reflects the needs of its surroundings.

Find new woodlands near you

We're creating new woodlands in over 20 different counties across England. 

Whether you're looking for somewhere new to walk, want to see nature recovery in action, or are simply curious about what's growing near you, there's likely a new woodland closer than you think. 

Three people kneeling in grass, planting a tree sapling.

The Woodland Creation Programme is funded through the government's Trees Programme, an initiative to increase tree planting in England.

Featured new woodlands

Image of existing woodland at Bagot Forest with new woodland creation area at foreground, taken on bright sunny day
Staffordshire

Our largest new woodland in 20 years.

Image of new woodland creation site in Devon, showing grazing sheep on open field, with mature tree in background
Devon

Connecting habitats across Devon.

Bluebells in long grass with large trees and blue sky in background
Hampshire

A woodland inspired by local history.

Rows of planted tree saplings shown next to grassland, with a fenced sapling shown in the foreground.
Yorkshire

New woodland just outside of York.