We have been assessed and certified as meeting the requirements
of a well managed forest.
This means that with the help of grants from the Forestry
Commission, woodlands within our ownership are managed for
wildlife, recreation and access.
Woodlands
Woodlands included in this scheme are:
- Healey Dell
- Alkrington Wood
- Hopwood Wood
- Syke
- Scowcroft
- Sudden Brook
- Wince Brook
- Springfield Park
- Roch Valley
- Hollingworth Lake Woodlands
- Summit Quarry
- Calderbrook Terrace
- Barkers Wood
- Irk Valley
Pennine Edge Forest
Pennine Edge Forest is a community woodland initiative on the
eastern edge of Greater Manchester. The forest covers the districts
of Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport and Tameside and is a partnership of
the 4 local authorities, Forestry Commission, United Utilities,
Groundwork Trusts and British Trust for Conservation Volunteers.
The partnership was formed in 2003.
Although there are many superb existing woodlands within
Rochdale and the Pennine Edge Forest, such as those at Healey Dell
and Alkrington Woods, only 3% of the total forest area is wooded,
compared to 9% for England as a whole.
Woodlands are wonderful habitats not only for wildlife, but also
for recreation and education. Trees act as natural air filters,
removing pollution and dust from the atmosphere. They also can
improve the image of an area, regenerating derelict land making it
more attractive for investors and for those who live and work in
the area.
The Pennine Edge Forest provides a fantastic opportunity for the
region and represents the long-term commitment made by Rochdale and
its partners to increasing the quality and percentage of tree and
woodland cover, and improving the environment for everyone who
lives or works within the area.
As well as working to create new woodlands and manage existing
woodland areas, Pennine Edge Forest will also:
- Work with local communities to offer opportunities to get
involved in practical activities.
- Develop community events and educational opportunities for
schools.
- Bring neglected woodlands back into community life.
- Enrich local biodiversity.
- Provide accessible recreational woodlands on the doorstep of
urban neighbourhoods.
- Develop innovative ways to green local neighbourhoods, business
landscapes and encourage private landowners to plant new woodlands
on unused land.