The growing value of England’s urban woodlands

The Mersey Forest Partnership, has worked closely with local people since 1991 to create new areas of accessible woodland close to where they live, reclaiming derelict land or making use of underused land. 
More than 9 million trees have been planted in the past 25 years, creating thousands of hectares of new woodland. The area of woodland has increased by close to 75%, bucking the national trend. 
The positive effect of nature and a green environment on health is now well documented. The maturing woodlands of The Mersey Forest are a great resource for health – the task now is to engage more people with their local woodlands and provide more recreational opportunities. 
Find out more about the importance of urban woodlands here