FOREST OF AVON

Community Forests

The Forest of Avon is one of 12 Community Forests in England and is part of a national programme of major environmental improvements supported by the Countryside Commission and the Forestry Authority. The Forests are being shaped by local people and effect over half of England’s population.

The main aim of Community Forests is to transform the countryside in and around major towns and cities through a broad forestry agenda; increasing woodland cover, restoring scarred landscapes, creating wildlife habitats, providing green spaces for public enjoyment, making outdoor classrooms, providing new opportunities for forestry, farming, arts, recreation and much, much more!

87% of people feel that there is a need for more natural open space in and around towns and cities.

Community Forests are creating a greener environment for the future – right on people’s doorsteps – developing a rich mixture of woodland, farmland, open spaces and settlements, all within easy reach of millions of people.

England’s Community Forests form the largest environmental initiative in the UK

Your Local Forest – The Forest of Avon

The Forest of Avon is not a single area of trees, but an ever-expanding network of woodlands and green spaces in and around Bristol.It is being created by a partnership of local interests including Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, South Gloucestershire Council, The Wildlife Trust, BTCV, FWAG and the Woodland Trust, creating a greener and healthier environment to be used and enjoyed by all. Local communities, farmers and business are also given the opportunity to get involved in the transformation of the local landscape.The Forest of Avon – a great place to be!

Where is the Forest of Avon?

The Forest of Avon covers 221 square miles in and around Bristol. The area stretches north as far as Thornbury and south to Pensford. The eastern boundary takes in Chipping Sodbury and the Severn Estuary forms and western limit. The city of Bristol lies right at the heart of the Forest.

One million people live in and around the Forest of Avon

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There’s lots going on in the Forest!

Here are a few examples:

Tree Planting:- The Forest area has one of England’s lowest rates of woodland cover at only 6%, one long term goal is to increase this to 30%. More than 15 million new trees will be planted over the next 40-50 years.

Marketing woodland products and developing links with local business.

Working towards atmospheric change and carbon absorption.

Visiting schools to support environmental education.

Co-ordinating and supporting over 100 local tree wardens.

Organising seed saving projects.

Production of popular walking guides and newsletter.

Organising numerous events, activities and workshops with local people.

Improving access to green space and the countryside.

THE STORY SO FAR…….

Since 1992, in the Forest of Avon:-

350,000 trees have been planted representing over 238 hectares of new woodland – the equivalent to 317 football pitches.

Over 1,130 hectares of existing woodland has been brought under management for timber, wildlife and public use.

New public access routes have been opened in over 1,200 hectares of woodland.

The Community Forest Path, a 45-mile recreational route encircling Bristol helps local people to get out into nearby green places and countryside.

Involvement with over 100 community groups working towards environmental improvement.

Over 300 local schools have been involved in environmental education initiatives.

For further information on the Forest of Avon and any activities occurring please contact the team on:-

Tel: (0117) 9532141 Fax: (0117) 9532143 E-Mail: forestofavon@gn.apc.org