Planting is finally due to begin at a major new community forest project in County Durham, after the High Court dismissed a legal challenge.
Almost 300 hectares of woodland will be created at Greencroft Forest Park, with around 600,000 trees from more than 30 species. The mix will support biodiversity and timber production, including 198 hectares of productive conifer planting on former agricultural land.
A forest with practical benefits
The project is expected to produce more than 110,000 tonnes of sustainably grown timber by 2046 and capture over 67,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide during its first century.
It also includes 37 acres of wet woodland around the flood-prone Newhouse and Smallhope Burns. According to project plans, the new planting could reduce flood risk in the Lanchester area by lowering river levels by up to 10%.
Public access is part of the scheme too, with improvements planned for footpaths around the site, including accessible routes for wheelchair and pushchair users. Planting is expected to be completed by 30 April 2027, while the woodland will be maintained for 15 years.
The project is jointly funded by the Forestry Commission and the North East Community Forest Trees for Climate grant programme, managed by the North East Community Forest and funded by Defra.
Why it matters for Britain
The forest will create a long-term source of UK-grown timber while supporting carbon capture, biodiversity and flood protection in County Durham. Better paths should also make the new woodland easier for local people to enjoy.
