Trees for Climate woodlands

Trees for Climate is a national woodland creation programme under the government’s Nature for Climate Fund. Delivered by England’s Community Forests, it aims to at least triple tree planting rates across England.

We've worked in partnership with the Forest of Marston Vale to create 2 new woodlands planted east and west of Vinegar Hill, Beeston in December 2022.

The 2 new woodlands names; Bidlake Spring and Cope Spinney, were chosen by residents in a public vote, supported by Sandy Town Council and Northill Parish Council.

Bidlake Spring honours Frederick Thomas Bidlake, a record-setting English cyclist and key figure in British cycling history.

Cope Spinney is named in memory of Poppy Cope, a local teacher and passionate advocate for nature.

Together, these woodlands represent nearly 23 hectares of mixed woodland and wildflower grassland. Over 33,000 trees and shrubs have been planted, including English oak, silver birch, hornbeam, Scots pine, and wild cherry. The project includes a community orchard, planted with 118 native and locally significant fruit trees such as ‘Beauty of Bedford’ and ‘Laxton’s Advance’. The Community Orchard will be supported by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity (Beds RCC), and will offer opportunities for local engagement, education, and stewardship.

The new woodlands connect with the public rights of way network and form a key part of the Sandy Green Wheel initiative, enhancing green access and celebrating local heritage including a route past the Bidlake memorial at Girtford Bridge to the north east of the site.

This initiative is part of our refreshed Sustainability Plan, which targets carbon neutrality by 2030. As these woodlands mature, they’ll absorb carbon, improve air quality, and create vital habitats for wildlife such as skylarks, linnets, bats, and insects.

Get involved

Local residents are invited to be part of the community orchard. Email begreen@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk to learn how you can volunteer.