Have your say on North Devon's new woodland

Forestry England is inviting local residents to share their thoughts on a new woodland planned for East Worth, near Northlew in North Devon. 

The 29.8-hectare site has been purchased to create a “Coronation Wood” in honour of His Majesty King Charles III, making it the third such woodland in the area, following new sites near Burriott and Quoditch.

The proposed woodland at East Worth is designed to serve multiple purposes, from providing sustainably-grown timber to enhancing habitats for wildlife. 

The woodland will be planted with tree species suited to local soil conditions and anticipated climate changes, ensuring its long-term sustainability.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the woodland will be developed with public access in mind, offering space for informal recreation and contributing to nature conservation efforts.

Forestry England have explained they are eager to involve the local community in the planning process. 

Draft designs for the woodland are available for public viewing online until 15 September. Residents can review the plans and offer their feedback at Forestry England's consultation page.

For those who prefer to discuss the plans in person, a public drop-in event will be held on Tuesday, 10 September, from 4pm to 7pm at Northlew Victory Hall. 

Forestry England’s forest management director in the west of England, Kevin Stannard, said: “I’m pleased to share our proposals for the third of our new woodlands in North Devon with the communities who will be most involved in its future. The new woodland at Northlew will be designed to address the challenges of our changing climate, while providing sustainably-grown timber products, access for people, and havens for nature.

“We are keen to involve the local community in the design process so we can incorporate their needs and hopes for these woodlands. I hope community members will join us to explore the plans on 10 September or have their say online.”

The Coronation Woodlands at East Worth, Quoditch, and Burriott are part of Forestry England’s broader initiative to create 2,000 hectares of new woodland by 2026. 

This effort is a key component of the organisation’s mission to expand and sustain the nation’s forests for future generations.

For more information about Forestry England’s work and their plans for growing the nation’s forests, visit their official website at www.forestryengland.uk/growing-the-nations-forests