An Ashby park area is part of a major initiative to improve access to green space in the National Forest.

Thousands of people now benefiting from new woodland areas in their local communities.

The project has not only helped more underrepresented communities access nature close to home, but has also improved individual well-being, strengthened community ties and encouraged more people to value and care for their local green areas.

The National Forest Community Woodlands project, which ran from August 2022 to March 2025, has delivered 11 new community woodlands across the region, providing accessible green spaces within 500 metres of people's homes and encouraging everyday interaction with nature. 

Ashby's Tiny Forest in Western Park, has been named as one of the 11 new sites created across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

This area saw its first trees planted in December, 2023.

The project was delivered in partnership with Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Community Council and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from the South Derbyshire District Council Community Fund at the Netherseal site, and Defra's Nature for Climate Fund. 

Ten new community groups have been established to care for the woodlands, helping to ensure their long-term sustainability.

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Ashby's Tiny Forest saw its first trees planted in December, 2023

A total of 258 individuals took part in training sessions for the project's Leadership Development Programme, while volunteers collectively contributed more than 27,000 hours to woodland activities.

In addition, over 1,500 participants engaged in nature-based sessions designed to support health, wellbeing and connection with the natural environment. 

The creation of the woodlands has also brought benefits for biodiversity, helping to connect fragmented habitats and create new corridors for wildlife. 

Local people have responded positively to the new spaces and Hollie Davison, project officer at the National Forest, said: "It's been incredibly inspiring to see so many people from the local communities get involved – whether that's through volunteering, joining a new woodland group, or simply spending time in the woodlands. 

"These spaces have brought people together and shown how nature can support our wellbeing, strengthen communities and create a real sense of local pride.

"The passion and commitment from volunteers and local partners has been remarkable, and it's wonderful to know these woodlands will continue to grow and be cared for into the future." 

The National Forest says that the completion of the Community Woodlands project marks a significant step forward in creating greener, healthier and more connected communities across the National Forest.

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It adds that, with lasting benefits for both people and nature, these new woodlands stand as a testament to the power of partnership, community action and a shared commitment to a more sustainable future.