New Miyawaki Micro Forest for Earby

 

The forest has been planted on Pendle Borough Council land next to the Spring Mill new homes development on Bailey Street, marking an important step in enhancing local biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Pendle Council has played a leading role in bringing about the tree planting, with Barnfield Construction and Lancashire County Council working in partnership to create the new micro forest.

Pupils from Earby Springfield Primary School also took part in the planting, giving local children the opportunity to get hands-on with nature, learn about trees and biodiversity, and play a direct role in creating a greener future for their community.

Councillor David Whipp, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “As someone who's facilitated the project, I'm delighted that we're planting a micro-forest in Earby, involving local children and volunteers from Barnfield.

“I'm looking forward to seeing our urban forest flourishing, growing up with children who've helped plant these baby trees.”

The Earby site has been planted with approximately 850 native tree whips and enclosed with a chestnut paling fence.

Within two to three years, many of the trees are expected to exceed two metres in height, making them extremely difficult to damage or remove.

The micro forest will capture atmospheric carbon dioxide, improve local air quality, provide shade and shelter, reduce waterlogging and support an exceptional abundance of wildlife, including insects, pollinators, birds and bats.

Tracy Clavell-Bate, Head of Developments and Acquisitions at Barnfield Construction, said: “At Barnfield, we are committed to creating places that deliver long-term benefits for both people and the environment.

“Introducing a Miyawaki Micro Forest alongside our Spring Mill development has allowed us to enhance biodiversity, support climate resilience and involve the local community in a meaningful way.”

Ian Wright, Community Engagement Officer (Treescapes) at Lancashire County Council, added: “Micro forests are a fantastic way to create thriving woodland habitats in small spaces.

“By planting trees densely and preparing the soil properly, we’re able to establish resilient, fast-growing forests that deliver benefits for wildlife, air quality and local communities very quickly.”