Sunday, 22nd March saw the launch of a special woodland creation project at the Emmaus Youth Village at Allensford, Consett. Young people from across the north east helped kick off the planting of more than 7,500 trees across 8.24 hectares of woodland.
Simon Green, Director of Southern Green, said – “We are proud to have worked with Phillip Salkeid CEO of the Youth Ministry, Kevin Earley, Durham County Council and the North East Community Forest officers in developing the masterplan for this important community driven environmental project”.
Our brief was to explore opportunities for developing new woodland planting within the parcels of land around Emmaus Youth Village, using North East Community Forest Funds. The objective was to support this community group in working together to enhance connectivity to and the quality of their local green space. This sustainable environmental project promotes biodiversity, and through engagement and volunteering opportunities, helps to educate the community about the importance of environmental stewardship irrespective of faith or background.
The project aims to further enhance the attractive Derwent Valley, as well as improving its wildlife value through the planting of woodland of native trees, the creation of glades and green pathways, the conservation of existing wildflower meadows and hedges, and the establishment of an orchard and ponds.
Southern Green carried out extensive surveys to ensure that important habitats and features were protected, existing buildings linked with a network of paths across the site including viewpoints, and that new woodlands merged well with the surrounding woodlands.
The project is far more than woodland creation and biodiversity improvements. Most importantly, it will give young people from across the region the opportunity to get in touch with nature and have fun, whilst encouraging respect for the environment. A dedicated space for environmental education allows hands-on learning for both young and old about nature, sustainability, and the critical importance of preserving our planet.
Information boards will be strategically placed offering insights about the local flora and fauna, history of the region, and the significance and crucial role of biodiversity. The publicly accessible footpaths and wildlife areas will offer residents and visitors a place to connect with nature and engage with pond dipping opportunities.
Contractor, Microsite, is currently undertaking the first phase of planting, with the second stage starting in Autumn 2026. They will be responsible for maintaining the site for 3 years. Events will take place involving young people visiting the Youth Village, which will provide opportunities to observe how their planting develops, allow them to help with maintenance and other activities, but most importantly to have fun.
The North East Community Forest comments – “This project represents a long-term investment in both the environment and the community, which is being funded by the Government’s Trees for Climate grant, administered by the North East Community Forest, where it will become a place where people can enjoy nature today while helping protect it for future generations”.
This woodland creation follows on from previous events attended by our dedicated team alongside Living Woods. Living Woods is an organisation that is dedicated to the creation and sustainable management of woodlands across the north east of England. Thousands of trees have been planted, and local communities are encouraged to not only be involved in the tree planting, but also the ongoing maintenance and care.
Image credit: North East Community Forest
