Gateshead Council invests in new woodland

A woodland project in Gateshead is set to create tens of thousands of new trees.

Gateshead Council is investing in a new 33-hectare woodland south west of Blaydon, thanks to funding from the Trees for Climate programme, supported by The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and England’s Community Forests. 

The site, currently mainly grazing land on Garesfield Lane, will see approximately 50,000 native trees planted, covering an area equivalent to 46 full-size football pitches.

Parts of the site include ancient woodland, while existing public rights of way will be preserved and enhanced with new paths to improve access.

The new woodland will be a mix of 60 per cent trees and 40 per cent open land, offering views across the Derwent Valley and even the Newcastle Gateshead skyline. 

Officials say this combination aims to boost biodiversity, create habitats for a wider range of wildlife, and provide an enhanced space for the public.

Meanwhile, a 6ft fence will protect the young trees from roe deer, while gates will allow visitors to enjoy the site.

Lloyd Jones, forest manager at the North East Community Forest, said: “This project is a fantastic example of how strategic investment in nature can deliver long- term benefits for people, wildlife and the climate. 

“We’re proud to support Gateshead Council in creating a thriving woodland that will be enjoyed for generations.”

Gateshead Council’s project is part of the wider North East Community Forest initiative, which aims to protect, restore, and increase tree and woodland cover across the region. 

Locally, the council has set targets to plant 100,000 trees on council land by 2030 and expand woodland by 250 hectares, supporting both nature and public recreation.

Councillor John McElroy, cabinet member for the environment and transport at Gateshead Council, added: “This is a brilliant new asset for Gateshead. 

“Land that has previously been in private ownership will now be owned by the council, and we are adding 50,000 trees to make a massive contribution to our 2030 target where we are already way ahead of schedule.

“Planting trees on this scale makes a great contribution to protecting and enhancing the landscape, preventing flooding, and increasing biodiversity. 

“The trees also absorb CO2 to help reach our climate goals – and they contribute to improving air quality.

“At a time of climate crisis, it’s brilliant to have a site like this which not only has all these benefits – but also means an enhanced environment for the public to enjoy in a beautiful part of the borough.”

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