Introduction
The North East Community Forest Plan was approved by the Forest Partnership in November 2025 and is a long-term strategy to guide the work of the Forest Team and Partners through 2050 and beyond. It sets out a shared vision, key objectives and guiding principles to enhance the region’s treescapes through woodland creation, tree and hedgerow planting for the benefit of people, nature and climate.
The plan promotes the environmental, social and economic benefits that woodlands, trees and hedgerows bring to local communities. It provides a framework for coordinated action, investment and engagement, supporting the region’s contribution to national climate and nature recovery goals.
As a web based resource, the plan allows partners, communities, land managers and decision makers to explore priorities, opportunities and evidence for woodland creation and tree and hedgerow planting in both rural and urban areas.
A summary version is available, providing an accessible overview to complement this detailed online resource.
Read the Summary PlanAbout the Plan
This section explains why the Forest Plan was prepared, its purpose and and how it will guide decision-making and actions. It covers:
- Why We Have Prepared a Plan
- How the Plan Was Developed
- How the Plan Will Be Used
- Why Trees Matter
- Benefits of Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows
Background and Context
This section sets out the background and context to the Forest Plan, exploring the story behind the North East Community Forest and its role within England’s Community Forest Network. It covers:
- North East Community Forest
- England’s Community Forest Network
- People and Place
- Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows in North East England
- Challenges to Trees, Woodland and Hedgerows
- The Forest Partnership
- The Policy Context
- Our Impact
Forest Plan Vision Objectives and Principles
This section outlines the Forest Plan’s long-term vision for treescapes that support nature, people and climate resilience. It explains what we want to achieve and the principles that guide delivery. It covers:
- Our Vision for 2050
- Three Key Objectives:
- Expand, establish and connect trees, woodlands and hedgerows
- Protect, restore and sustain tree, woodland and hedgerow ecosystems
- Foster a thriving culture of trees, woodlands and hedgerows
- Key Targets for 2030 and 2050
- Guiding Principles
Delivering Benefits for People, Nature and Climate
This section sets out the key priorities for delivering benefits across the three themes of people, nature and climate.
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For People
Enriching lives and livelihoods through green spaces and community involvement.
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For Climate
Strengthening resilience, mitigating climate change and adapting to environmental challenges.
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Guiding Principles for Trees, Woodland and Hedgerows
This section sets out principles for a design-led, evidence-based approach to woodland creation, tree and hedgerow planting. The principles balance environmental priorities with practical considerations for successful establishment and long-term management and promote sustainable and ethical management practices. It covers:
- Design and Establishment
- Long term Management, Restoration and Protection
- Where We Will Establish Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows
Delivering the Plan
This section explains how the Forest Plan will be implemented and monitored, including partnership working, funding and reporting. It contains:
- Working Together with Partners and Stakeholders
- Funding and Resources
- Monitoring and Reporting
- Delivery Plan 2025 – 2030