Our Vision
To create a thriving, resilient, sustainable multipurpose forest that delivers lasting benefits for the people, economy, nature and environment across North East England for generations to come.
Our Vision for 2050
By 2050, the North East of England will have a thriving, resilient treescape where trees, woodlands and hedgerows are abundant, healthy and deeply woven into the region’s landscapes.
Through strong partnerships with communities, local authorities, businesses, industry and landowners, we will create, protect and manage these natural assets with to enhance biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and improve people’s health and wellbeing.
Guided by innovation and sound environmental principles, our approach will ensure both rural and urban landscapes flourish for generations to come.
Every tree planted and nurtured will serve a purpose, improving air quality, supporting wildlife, strengthening local economies and creating healthier, greener spaces for people to enjoy.
By championing the value of trees and inspiring collective action, we will enrich lives, drive nature recovery and support climate adaptation.
Rooted in a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship, our work will ensure that trees are planted with purpose, managed with care and valued for their role in creating thriving, resilient communities. We will raise awareness of the critical benefits that trees provide, actively promote innovative approaches to woodland management, advocate for green infrastructure and support sustainable development that enhances North East England’s natural environment.
Key Objectives
- Expand, Establish and Connect Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows
We will encourage and support the establishment and planting of well-connected, diverse and thriving trees, woodlands and hedgerows, prioritising areas of greatest need. This will maximise benefits for people, nature and climate. - Protect, Restore and Sustain Tree, Woodland and Hedgerow Ecosystems
We will support responsible and sustainable management practices that protect, restore and improve the health, biodiversity and resilience of trees, woodlands and hedgerows, ensuring long-term benefits for nature, people and climate. - Foster a Thriving Tree, Woodland and Hedgerow Culture
We will inspire and support greater participation in the creation, management and use of trees, woodlands and hedgerows. By raising awareness of their value, we will cultivate stronger connections between communities and the natural environment.
Key Targets
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By 2030
- Create 500 ha of new woodland
- Create 500 ha of trees outside of woodland and hedgerows (such as in parks, streets, open spaces, along boundaries, farmland and working landscapes through agroforestry)
- Involve 8,000 people in the planting, design and maintenance
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By 2050
- Create 5,000 hectares of additional trees, woodlands and hedgerows
- Ensure 80% of woodlands are sustainably managed (up from our existing 60% baseline)
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Long term ambition
- Achieve 30% tree canopy cover across North East England
- Meet the 3/30/300 Rule:
- Every person should be able to see 3 trees from their home
- Every neighbourhood should have 30% tree canopy cover
- Every household should be no more than 300m from a green park or green space of at least 1 hectare
Guiding Principles
The North East Community Forest is committed to creating greener, healthier and more connected communities. By embedding guiding principles of equity, sustainability and resilience into every aspect of its work, the forest will ensure fair access to green spaces, empower local communities and foster strong long-term partnerships.
We will work together—across sectors and communities—to deliver greater benefits for people, nature, and climate. By encouraging diverse perspectives, we can make better decisions and drive more impactful change.
We will inspire and engage individuals and communities, placing people, equity, and accessibility at the heart of the forest. Actively involving local communities in tree planting and management fosters a sense of ownership, environmental stewardship, and social equity. We will address social and environmental inequalities through inclusive engagement and support grassroots initiatives that empower local action.
We will actively support and empower young people through education and hands-on involvement in forestry. By encouraging youth participation, we can foster environmental awareness, skill development, and future leadership in sustainable forestry.
We will ensure fair and equal access to trees and woodlands, prioritising tree planting in underserved communities to address health inequalities. Every resident should have access to the benefits of trees and green spaces, enhancing wellbeing for all.
We will select and plant trees strategically, considering ecological balance, climate resilience, and land use priorities. Trees will contribute to cleaner air, shade, noise reduction, mental wellbeing, and accessible green spaces. By choosing the appropriate species for each location, we will maximise their long-term benefits while respecting existing natural habitats.
We will foster strong partnerships across sectors, working with diverse stakeholders to maximise expertise, resources, and impact. By encouraging shared responsibility among individuals, organisations, and policymakers, we can drive positive change and long-term sustainability.
We will uphold the highest professional and ecological standards in tree and woodland management. Our approach will align with the latest scientific research and industry best practices, ensuring long-term conservation, responsible land use, and the resilience of urban and rural woodlands.
We will embrace research, innovation, and creative solutions to tackle challenges. By monitoring progress, reporting on impact, and celebrating achievements, we will ensure transparency and continuous improvement across the forest.
We recognise that trees and woodlands are long-term investments in the future. Our actions today will shape a greener, more sustainable tomorrow for generations to come.
We will promote an economically viable woodland sector that balances sustainability with economic benefits. Through responsible timber production, eco-tourism, and other forest-based industries, we will support livelihoods while preserving natural resources.
We will embed biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience into all forestry activities. By strengthening ecological networks, promoting biodiversity corridors, and enhancing green infrastructure, we will ensure that tree planting efforts contribute to landscape connectivity, carbon sequestration, and urban resilience.
We will safeguard ancient woodlands and ancient and veteran trees as irreplaceable natural and cultural assets. These habitats are rich in biodiversity, steeped in history, and vital to ecosystem health. By recognising their unique ecological and heritage value, we will ensure their protection through careful planning, informed decision-making, and long-term stewardship. Development and land-use change will avoid harm to these precious environments, securing their legacy for future generations.