The Heart of England Forest is committed to reversing centuries of woodland decline by creating and conserving a vast broadleaf forest, ensuring its protection and natural beauty for future generations.
Stretching across the Warwickshire/Worcestershire border, the Forest covers diverse habitats, including newly planted trees, ancient woodlands, grasslands, heathlands, farmland, and wetlands. These spaces provide a thriving environment for wildlife, plants, and people. Their work focuses on creating biodiverse habitats that support not only wildlife but also human life, helping us adapt to a rapidly changing climate. As the Forest expands, eventually covering an area equivalent to 17,000 football pitches, its health benefits for both people and nature will grow in parallel.
Heart of England Forest are dedicated to ensuring the long-term protection of the Forest, having purchased the land to secure its future for hundreds of years. Our efforts are focused on adapting to climate change, with a variety of up to 30 native tree species being planted to create a resilient woodland. Additionally, the Forest is being connected through green corridors and accessible trails to encourage public engagement and connect people with nature. This includes accessible trails and audio trails, which aim to make the Forest more inclusive for people of all abilities. They also work closely with local partners and biodiversity action plans to maximise interconnected habitats supporting native UK wildlife.
The Heart of England Forest is not just a new woodland; it has already become an invaluable national asset, inspiring future generations to take responsibility for its care and protection.
On their membership with SWM, they say:
“The Heart of England Forest is committed to contributing to the West Midlands’ sustainability vision. Through our extensive tree planting and habitat restoration efforts, we play a crucial role in carbon sequestration across the region. By creating a diverse, climate-resilient woodland, we not only enhance biodiversity but also provide a natural solution to carbon capture.
Additionally, we are dedicated to engaging local communities, schools, and volunteers in sustainability initiatives, fostering greater awareness and understanding of climate change and the importance of long-term environmental stewardship. Our commitment to sustainable land management practices, along with our focus on improving air and water quality through green spaces, aligns directly with the region’s climate goals. We aim to share our experiences with the network, collaborate, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for the entire region.”