Minorca Woodlands

Our Minorca site, which is in the process of being transformed into a flourishing forest, is named after a coal mine that occupied the site from the mid-19th century. Thousands of trees have already been planted on the 150-hectare site and many more will follow as the land is restored from former pit head and open cast mine to becoming an integral part of the ever-expanding National Forest. A link-up with fashion retailer FatFace has already seen 60,000 trees planted, enhancing the environment and storing carbon as part of our efforts to help tackle climate change. A carefully considered mix of broadleaved trees and conifers were chosen for their ability to take up carbon quickly, others chosen specifically for the benefits they provide for wildlife. 

The ambitious tree planting programme was initiated in 2020-21 and, once completed, will form one of the largest blocks of woodland under one ownership in the National Forest. Extending beyond the site’s boundaries to the north and east are further extensive privately-owned woodlands. These, in turn, link to Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Woods and Sence Valley (two more former coal mining locations) meaning that, over the period of just some 25 years, this area will have changed dramatically from an open industrial landscape to what is now one of the most heavily wooded parts of the National Forest. If you would like to help us continue to grow a greener, healthier and more sustainable future here in the National Forest, you can dedicate a tree to be planted at Minorca.  

Donations and additional grant funding have supported the creation of other habitats across the Minorca site, including new parkland, wetland ponds and wildflower seeding areas to attract wintering birds such as tree sparrows, song thrushes, linnets and yellowhammers. A variety of wildflowers have also been sown around the site edge to attract bees and butterflies, with public footpath and bridlepaths increasing options for off-road walking and riding. The site is located between the villages of Swepstone and Measham in north-west Leicestershire.