A one million pound investment will see 400 acres of native woodland planted across the Peak District National Park over the next three years.

It's part of a landmark collaboration between the Peak District National Authority and the Woodland Trust.

Local farmers and landowners will be involved in helping to locate and develop the new woodland sites, which will be carefully selected based on their suitability for planting.

The new scheme will be delivered via the Defra-Nature for Climate Fund, which supports the Northern Forest Partnership ‘Grow Back Greener’ programme.

The newly created woodlands will focus on the four key themes of the ‘Grow Back Greener’ programme: linking existing ancient woodlands; creating riparian woodlands; woodland creation through natural processes; and schemes which contribute to regional carbon goals.  

Leading on the project, new Farm Advisor for Woodland Creation, Matt Mardling said: "Dedicated support will be available to help navigate the challenges of ensuring schemes contribute to the special character of our Peak District landscapes, while also expanding vital woodland cover.”

The project will involve designing and then overseeing the planting of schemes, and supporting landowners to monitor and maintain sites to ensure the woodlands successfully establish.  

Suzanne Fletcher, Head of Landscape at the PDNPA, added: “These schemes will provide a multitude of benefits, improving wildlife, water quality and flood management, and supporting farm businesses across the Peak District."

The National Park Authority will open an application process for interested farmers and landowners in 2022.

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