1 Million Trees for Norfolk: County Council unveils new woodland project

Tree planting in Norfolk is set for another boost this season as Norfolk County Council continues its drive towards 1 million trees for the county.

This winter, a new woodland will be created at Wiggenhall St Germans totalling 15.5 hectares on the council's county farmland. Around 40,000 trees will be planted, transforming the site into a vibrant, wildlife-rich landscape. Work is already underway, with planting continuing through to summer 2026.

The council's subsidised tree scheme is also open again, offering individuals, parish councils, community groups, businesses, schools and landowners the chance to apply for tree packs and protection materials at up to 50% off the original price.

Cllr James Bensly, cabinet member for environment and waste at Norfolk County Council, said: "It's fantastic to see another exciting season of tree planting under way. The creation of a new woodland at Wiggenhall St Germans will not only help us towards our goal of one million trees for Norfolk, but it will also create a space for residents and visitors to enjoy for generations to come. We've already planted more than 600,000 trees and hedge plants since the project began in 2020, with much more planned for this season - a huge step towards that ambition."

The Wiggenhall woodland will feature a mix of native and fruiting species, chosen to create a thriving and resilient habitat for wildlife.

The space will be open for public access in late Spring 2026, with paths provided so that local residents can walk, explore, and enjoy the changing woodland as it grows.

Local county councillor, Brian Long, said: "It's great to see this kind of investment in our local area. The new woodland at Wiggenhall St Germans will bring real benefits - not just for wildlife, but for residents too. It'll create a peaceful space for people to enjoy and add to the natural character of the parish. I'm pleased to see the county council supporting projects that make a positive difference on the ground-and it's even better to know this forms part of the wider 1 million trees for Norfolk ambition."

David Johnson from Wiggenhall St. Germans Parish Council said: "We're really pleased to be part of this project and to see tree planting happening right here in Wiggenhall St Germans. It's a brilliant opportunity to create something lasting for the parish - somewhere local people can walk, relax, and enjoy nature as the woodland grows over the years. It's exciting to think how this space will evolve and become a real asset for the community."

For those who want to do their bit to boost the number of trees in Norfolk but don't have space for woodland, subsidised tree packs are available to order now.

For the first time this year, a limited number of 'Taller Tree Packs', grown at Gressenhall Community Tree Nursery, are also available. These include larger beech, oak, and birch trees, making it possible for more people to take part and be 1 in a million.

For more information on Norfolk's One Million Trees initiative, visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/milliontrees.