A major tree-planting project is underway in East Yorkshire, with 38,000 trees planted to establish a new 25-hectare woodland in Cottingham.
The initiative is part of the Humber Forest and the wider Northern Forest, a large-scale reforestation effort stretching from Liverpool to Hull.
The woodland, planted on land surrounding Yorkshire Water’s Cottingham pumping station, features a range of native tree species, including oak, birch, aspen, rowan, and wild cherry.
The project is led by the Woodland Trust and funded through Defra’s Nature for Climate Fund, which supports initiatives to combat climate change and restore natural habitats.
Alasdair Fagan from the Woodland Trust, who attended a planting session, highlighted the lack of woodland in Yorkshire and Hull, describing it as one of the least wooded areas in England, with only 2.2% woodland cover.
“So 25 hectares on the urban fringes of Hull and Cottingham is going to make a really big difference for nature but also for people to have access to green space,” he said.
Local volunteers played a key role in the planting effort. Jackie Cain, one of the participants, said she wanted to “give something back and make it look lovely for future generations.”
Another volunteer, Lorraine Graham, expressed excitement about the potential increase in birdlife and biodiversity.
Richard Hampshire, a nature reserve warden for Yorkshire Water, emphasised the long-term environmental benefits of the woodland.
“This space is now protected,” he said. “There are orchids growing here, and we’re already hearing bullfinches, song thrushes, and green woodpeckers. It’s incredible to have such rich birdlife on people’s doorsteps, safeguarded for future generations.”
