The Western Forest will enhance biodiversity and provide vital ecosystem services to more than 2.5 million residents in urban centers including Bristol, Gloucester, and Swindon. Spearheaded by the Forest of Avon—one of England’s Community Forests—the project will receive up to £7.5 million in government funding over five years. This initiative represents the first step in delivering the UK Government’s manifesto pledge to establish three new national forests during the current Parliament.
Nature Minister Mary Creagh highlighted the forest’s dual role in climate mitigation and public well-being:
“We will plant 20 million trees in the Western Forest to bring nature closer to people, prevent flooding and support wildlife.”
Beyond environmental goals, the Western Forest is poised to serve as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and the broader West of England. By integrating trees into existing landscapes, particularly agricultural areas—where over 73% of the land use is farming—the project will support agroforestry practices that improve soil health, enhance flood resilience, and maintain food production. This aligns with the Government’s Land Use Framework, promoting multifunctional land use to deliver environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Alex Stone, Chief Executive of Forest of Avon, emphasized the regional impact:
“Together, we will enhance landscapes for all to enjoy, improving the lives of our 2.5 million residents and visitors to the region...support investment into the region, create jobs and skills opportunities, and bring the endless benefits we get back from planting and caring for our trees.”
The National Forest Company, renowned for transforming 200 square miles of post-industrial land in the Midlands with over 9.8 million trees planted, will mentor and support the Western Forest project. Their track record—raising tree cover from 6% to over 25%—offers a proven model of sustainable development and community engagement.
John Everitt OBE, Chief Executive of the National Forest Company, noted:
“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.”
The Forestry Commission, part of the judging panel for the forest’s designation, will collaborate closely with stakeholders, including landowners, to ensure effective delivery.
The Western Forest contributes to several UK environmental targets, including the statutory goal of increasing England’s tree and woodland cover to 16.5% by 2050 and the commitment to protect 30% of land for nature by 2030 (30x30). Additionally, the forest will play a role in halting biodiversity decline, as part of broader government efforts, which include rewilding initiatives, restrictions on neonicotinoid pesticides, and strengthened protected areas.
Incorporating innovative partnerships, health and education-focused programs, and enhanced public access, the Western Forest represents a bold step toward a greener, more resilient landscape. With its combination of large-scale tree planting, ecosystem restoration, and socio-economic development, it exemplifies the integrated approach necessary to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss while supporting thriving communities.
