A new woodland with around 40,000 trees is set to open in West Norfolk next year.
This winter, the new green space will be planted at St Germans, totalling 15.5 hectares on Norfolk County County farmland.
It is expected to transform the site into a vibrant, wildlife-rich landscape. Work is already under way, with planting continuing through to summer 2026.
A new woodland with 40,000 trees at St Germans will be open to the public in spring next year. Picture: iStock
Cllr James Bensly, cabinet member for environment and waste at the county council, said: “It’s fantastic to see another exciting season of tree planting under way.
“The creation of a new woodland at St Germans will not only help us towards our goal of one million trees for Norfolk, but it will also create a space for residents and visitors to enjoy for generations to come.
“We’ve already planted more than 600,000 trees and hedge plants since the project began in 2020, with much more planned for this season – a huge step towards that ambition.”
The woodland will feature a mix of native and fruiting species, chosen to create a thriving and resilient habitat for wildlife.
The space will be open for public access in late spring 2026, with paths provided so that residents can walk, explore, and enjoy the changing woodland as it grows.
Cllr Brian Long, who represents the village on the county council, said: “It’s great to see this kind of investment in our local area. The new woodland at St Germans will bring real benefits – not just for wildlife, but for residents too.
“It’ll create a peaceful space for people to enjoy and add to the natural character of the parish.
“I’m pleased to see the county council supporting projects that make a positive difference on the ground-and it’s even better to know this forms part of the wider one million trees for Norfolk ambition.”
Cllr David Johnson, from St Germans Parish Council, added: “We’re really pleased to be part of this project and to see tree planting happening right here in St Germans.
“It’s a brilliant opportunity to create something lasting for the parish – somewhere local people can walk, relax, and enjoy nature as the woodland grows over the years.
“It’s exciting to think how this space will evolve and become a real asset for the community.”
The county council’s subsidised tree scheme is also open again – offering individuals, parish councils, community groups, businesses, schools and landowners the chance to apply for tree packs and protection materials at up to 50% off the original price.
For the first time this year, a limited number of ‘Taller Tree Packs’, grown at Gressenhall Community Tree Nursery, are also available.
These include larger beech, oak, and birch trees.