Home / Environment / Ghost Woods Bloom: UK Funds Massive Woodland Revival
Ghost Woods Bloom: UK Funds Massive Woodland Revival
10 Sep
Summary
- Over 105,000 acres of England's 'Ghost Woods' to be restored.
- £5.9 million in UK government funding secured for 2026-2029.
- Project targets ancient woodlands buried under timber plantations.
England's 'Ghost Woods' are set to undergo a large-scale restoration thanks to £5.9 million in UK government funding for 2026-2029. This initiative will target over 105,000 acres of Forestry England land, which are plantations established on former ancient woodland sites (PAWS).
Campaigners have celebrated this multi-year commitment from Defra as a critical step in reviving England's biodiverse landscapes. The funding aims to accelerate restoration, with a goal to double the recent rate of progress on the Public Forest Estate.
These 'Ghost Woods' are ancient woodlands felled in the 20th century, particularly after World War II, and replaced with commercial timber plantations. While these plantations produced timber, they lack the complex ecosystems of true ancient woodlands.
Conservationists argue that restoring these PAWS sites is vital, as remnants of the original ecosystems—including soils, fungal networks, and seed banks—may still exist beneath the plantations. This makes restoration potentially more effective than creating entirely new woodlands.
The successful campaign, backed by over 147,000 supporters, highlights the public's desire for action on ancient woodland decline. The government's commitment demonstrates the impact of coordinated public pressure, though campaigners stress ongoing monitoring and accountability are essential.
