900 trees planted in Loughborough

Around 900 native trees have been planted at the Outwoods in Loughborough to help the woodland area flourish.

harnwood Borough Council has planted the trees as part of a five-year Countryside Stewardship scheme.

The scheme is run by Natural England and the Forestry Commission and aims to preserve the ecology and habitats found in the Outwoods.

The oak trees have replaced non-native conifers which were introduced in the1940’s. Over the years the conifers have stopped native plants from growing and wildlife from flourishing.

Volunteers have been working hard to plant the trees over a two-week period.

Councillor Eric Vardy, Lead Member for Planning, Inward Investment and Tourism Strategy said: “We’re proud of our borough and we want to ensure that it continues to flourish in the future. 

“Woodlands need to be managed to ensure they are here for future generations to enjoy.

“Over the next five years the Council wants to plant 10,000 trees in the borough. This is a wonderful part of the country and we are committed to looking after it.”

The Council has worked with Idverde and the Outwoods Management Committee, the body responsible for overseeing its management.

Councillor Hilary Fryer, Chair of the Outwoods Management Committee, said: “We’re so pleased to see these trees being planted. 

“The Outwoods is so precious to the borough and we need to maintain it.

“This stewardship scheme will help to protect the woods and will encourage animals, birds and insects to live in the area which will develop it for the future.” 

The Outwoods is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England, which means it is protected by law to conserve its wildlife and geology. It is also part of the ancient Charnwood Forest and is the most easterly part of the National Forest.

For more information about the Outwoods, visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/outwoodsinformation