New forest set to be planted in Rushcliffe

A new woodland area, which is about the size of 30 football pitches, is being created in Nottinghamshire.

About 15,000 plants and shrubs will be planted across 54 acres (22 hectares) in Upper Broughton in Rushcliffe as part of a project by the borough council.

The site will be called Rushcliffe Woods and is set to feature a new meadow area, paths for the public to use, and wetlands for local species and wildlife.

Rushcliffe Borough Council said the new area was part of its goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.

The land was formerly used for agricultural purposes and cost the council about £500,000 to purchase.

Rushcliffe Borough Council said the project will offset 16 houses worth of carbon annually, which is about 64% of the council's current carbon output.

Work to plant the forest is due to begin this week in partnership with Greenwood Community Forest.

Councillor Neil Clarke, leader of Rushcliffe borough council, said: "This is an investment for the borough.

"Planting more trees will improve the air quality for people, and increase biodiversity in the area.

"This is a standalone project, it is not there to accompany house-building or anything like that.

"We are preserving the environment for generations to come, and I think locals will enjoy this as we show them our plans to preserve nature."

The council plans on building footpaths for the public to use but said certain areas will be fenced off while the saplings grow.

Councillor Clarke added: "There are wild deer and animals around, and while they'd love to be able to feed on the saplings, we need to ensure they are protected while the trees are still growing."

The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust said: "New woodland is hugely welcome.

"We need decisive action to put nature into recovery, and this ambitious plan is what we need in Nottingham and across the UK."

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