Views wanted on new woodland in Hathern

The proposed project would see around 14,000 trees planted on the site.

Charnwood Borough Council is working with Hathern Parish Council on the project which is looking to create a 15-acre woodland on council-owned land off Golden Square in Hathern. 

The proposed Hathern Community Woodland project would see around 14,000 trees planted on the site.

A £43,000 bid was submitted to the Forestry Commission last year and the Council is now after views from local people on the plans.

The consultation will run until Thursday August 19, 2021.

The project is also expected to contribute to the Council’s commitment to become Carbon Neutral by 2030. It is estimated that after 30 years the Hathern Community Woodland has the potential to capture up to 1,323 tonnes carbon dioxide.

Cllr Roy Rollings, lead member for transformation with responsibility for the Council’s campaign to become Carbon Neutral by 2030 said: “This project is being supported by the Forestry Commission and Hathern Parish Council and we now want to hear from residents on the proposals.

“Woodland areas have a positive impact on our lives including helping to improve the quality of the air. As a Council, we have pledged to ensure 100,000 trees are planted in the borough by 2024 and this is another step towards achieving that target.

“If you live in or around Hathern, please take a look at what is being planned and provide your feedback which could help to shape the project.”
Work on the community woodland could start during the next planting season, November 2021 - March 2022.

Cllr Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough and open spaces said: “Our parks and open spaces have become increasingly popular during the last 12 months and I’m really pleased a new one is being proposed in Hathern.

“It will be a great addition to the local community and offer a range of positive benefits for residents.”

Roy Dann, Chair of Hathern Parish Council said: “We are extremely pleased to partner the Council on this project and would encourage local residents to have a say on these proposals.

“The community woodland will bring a wide range of benefits to our community and we will continue to work closely with the Council to make it happen.”

A short questionnaire has been created so people can offer their feedback and comments up until Thursday August 19.