© National Trust - Rebecca Hughes

Design and Establishment

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.

This section covers:

  • Site Design Approach
  • Types of Planting
  • Planting Establishment Considerations

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Long Term Management, Restoration and Protection

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.

This section covers:

  • Principles of Sustainable Woodland Management
  • Regional Threats and Management Responses
  • Tree and Woodland Responsibilities

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Where to Establish Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows

We will support the planting of trees, woodlands and hedgerows in areas where they will deliver the greatest benefits. Identifying the right places to plant is essential to achieving our goals for people, nature and climate. Rural landscapes provide space for larger woodlands that restore habitats, improve connectivity and deliver significant carbon storage, supporting nature recovery at scale and strengthening resilience to climate change. Urban planting complements this by creating accessible green spaces that improve air quality, reduce heat stress and support health and wellbeing. Together, rural and urban planting ensures a balanced approach that benefits biodiversity, communities and the wider environment.

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Explore the Forest Plan