Woodland project launched with tree planting in Consett
A project to create a new woodland in County Durham is getting underway - aiming to spark a series of local environmental conservation projects
A new 8.24 hectare woodland creation project comprising 7,500 trees is getting underway at Emmaus Youth Village in Consett. The project is designed to support biodiversity, education, and community wellbeing and is the flagship project for further local environmental conservation. On Sunday March 22nd 2026 the project was launched with an opening ceremony comprising the planting of a ceremonial orchard tree, followed by community tree planting.
The area will include a new community orchard, native broadleaf woodland including open space habitat and wildflower meadows, shelter belts, in-field trees and ponds; transforming the area into a biodiverse-rich habitat. The project will also include publicly accessible walking paths and wildlife areas offering residents and visitors a place to connect with nature and each other.
This woodland 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.
Lloyd Jones of NECF said “Emmaus Youth Village’s new woodland is a brilliant example of how local partners and communities can work together to create landscapes that support wildlife, inspire young people, and strengthen community wellbeing. This project shows the real impact of our Trees for Climate programme in the North East — creating biodiverse places that will benefit people and nature for generations.”
Phillip J. Salkeld, CEO of the Youth Ministry Trust said: “This woodland project is about much more than planting trees. It is about creating a place where young people, families, and the wider community can encounter the beauty of God-given creation, learn to care for the natural world, and find space for reflection and connection. At Emmaus Youth Village we are committed to caring for our common home, and this project will allow future generations to enjoy and protect this environment for many years to come.”