Cumbria has a diversity of forests and woodlands.   The Government has a target to significantly increase England’s woodland cover over the next 40 – 50 years.   Policies and strategies support the creation and management of woodlands and forests throughout the County.   

New woodland creation needs to conserve or enhance the character of the landscape and use woodland species that are suitable to the local area.   We are working with Cumbria Woodlands, the Forestry Commission, the AONB Units (in Arnside and Silverdale, the North Pennines and Solway Coast), and other environmental organisations to help regenerate and create woodlands.

We support Cumbria Woodlands, in partnership with several other organisations, to help encourage good forest and woodland management across the County.    Cumbria Woodlands provides advice and support on woodland management, tree planting, grant aid, business and skills development and wood fuel opportunities.

The AONB Units seek to retain and enhance woodlands and woodland features where it forms part of the intrinsic character of the AONBs.   They provide advice and some grants may be available to enhance and manage woodland areas.   Their Sustainable Development Funds will support projects that also bring social and economic benefits to the areas.

The Lake District National Park Authority and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority are responsible for this type of work in the National Parks.

For more information on advice, support and grants follow the links below.