New land purchase adds another piece to the Great Avon Wood puzzle

Through coordinated action for nature, we have supported Avon Needs Trees and Forest of Avon to purchase a new area of land that will become the fourth section of Great Avon Wood. The 23.5 hectare site is near the village of Pensford in the Chew Valley. 6,500 native trees will be planted this winter, and the publicly accessible heritage walking trail will be extended, within reach by bus from Bristol and Bath. 

The new woodland sits between the three existing sections of Great Avon Wood, creating a vital wildlife corridor that will link habitats together. Around 75% of the site will become native woodland, with the remaining 25% managed as species-rich grassland and wood pasture to create a diverse landscape for wildlife. This means animals can move freely in search of food, shelter, and breeding sites. 

This collaboration is an exciting step towards our shared mission to increase much needed tree cover in one of the UK’s most nature depleted regions. As the new woodland is established, we want you to get involved with planting the trees, to help us keep community at the heart of the landscape.  

There will be lush new green space for everyone to enjoy, through permissive footpaths that extend the Great Avon Wood Heritage Trail. The trail celebrates the area’s rich history, including the ancient Publow Oak and the Wansdyke earthworks.

You are invited to help shape the woodland’s identity by suggesting a name. To avoid ending up with “Woody McWoodface”, they’ll then draw up a shortlist before inviting the community to make a final decision. You can add your suggestion on the Avon Needs Trees’ website.

Want to help plant the next chapter of Great Avon Wood? People of all ages and experience levels are welcome to get involved! Volunteering opportunities will be announced across our socials. For the best chance to participate, make sure you’re registered as a volunteer with both Avon Needs Trees and Forest of Avon and join our mailing list below to keep up to date with all volunteering events.