Government is investing £30 million to support the planting of 2,000 hectares of new woodland.
As part of the investment two hundred thousand hectares of existing woodland will also be protected or improved.
The investment will support landowners – including charities, local authorities and businesses – in their commitment to planting and maintaining the country’s woodland.
The woodland planting will not only create jobs but also long term growth opportunities for forestry companies.
The forestry industry makes a significant contribution to the rural economy in England, with the industry providing £230 million GVA in 2010, an increase of 52% since 2008.
The investment will be split between £6 million on new planting 2014/15 £24 million on woodland management, including maintaining the benefits of past woodland creation projects.
Dan Rogerson, Ministry for Forestry said: “Forests are a cherished national resource, which provide precious habitats for wildlife and natural spaces for generations to enjoy.
“Planting four million trees over the coming year will help us to extend woodland cover which will benefit, improve the environment and help grow the economy.”
From 2015, the new Rural Development Programme will look to further fund the creation and maintenance of woodland.
“New forests hold economic, as well as environmental and social benefits enabling the forestry business to create more jobs and play an increasing role in the nation’s economy recovery.”
