Forestry England is set to plant its largest new woodland in more than 20 years in Staffordshire.
The 303-hectare site, near Abbots Bromley, will be known as Bagots Park Wood and is the biggest woodland the organisation has created since before 2005, covering an area equivalent to over 420 football pitches.
Work is currently at the design stage, with detailed surveys and public feedback helping to shape plans ahead of a consultation scheduled for autumn 2026. The woodland is expected to be created over the following couple of years, with initial planting beginning in late 2027 or early 2028.
Designed to restore nature and strengthen existing habitats, the new woodland will link up with nearby woods, supporting species including all three native newts, bats, badgers, woodland birds and plants such as the spotted marsh orchid.
A diverse mix of tree and shrub species will be planted to boost resilience against climate change and disease, while creating a range of habitats. Once established, the woodland will capture carbon, support wildlife and, in time, contribute to sustainable timber production.
After planting is complete, the site will be dedicated under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, giving the public open access. In total, more than 600 hectares will be opened up, including more than 300 hectares at neighbouring Bagot Forest, which has not previously been accessible.
Paddy Harrop, Central Director at Forestry England, said: “Creating a woodland on this scale is a rare and exciting moment for us. It’s not since before 2005 that we’ve had an opportunity on this scale, and this project represents a major investment in the future of Staffordshire’s natural landscapes.
“Every place we plant with trees is unique. We’re looking carefully at the soil, habitats, historic features of the landscape and other important factors before we design this special woodland.
“We’ll share our draft designs with local people and other stakeholders in due course and hear their views. Local people can look forward to spending time in this new woodland which will be a lasting natural asset for generations.”
The project is backed by the government’s Nature for Climate Fund and forms part of Forestry England’s wider drive to create climate-resilient woodlands across the country.
Such an exciting project to look forward to seeing start. Can individuals help by planting, rewilding, etc