The Wildlife Trust for Sheffield and Rotherham has exciting plans to buy Greno Woods, one of the largest and most wildlife-rich ancient woodlands in Yorkshire, within the next two years.

The Trust is working with a consortium of local organisations who want to ensure that the land is bought and managed to benefit the many groups and individuals who use it as well as improving it for wildlife. This includes using the woods to practice and promote natural heritage skills such as coppicing and charcoal making; engaging mountain bikers, horse riders and orienteering groups; educational projects with schools and other groups; and extending and improving habitats and species ranges to enhance the resilience of wildlife in the face of climate change.

The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation have bought a significant amount of the wood and a private investor (on behalf of Slivapower Ltd) has bought the rest. This has taken the woodland off the open market and has provided the Trust with two years to raise the funds to buy the wood from EFF and the investor.

“The really exciting thing is the fact that this is a key part to a Living Landscape and we’re looking to actively restore the forest to create a climate-change-resilient, inspiring and people-friendly, wildlife-and-heritage-rich centre for woodland and heathland-related things in North Sheffield… for the people of both Sheffield & Barnsley. ” Said Nigel Doar, Chief Executive of the Trust. “We’re delighted to be able to help make this happen,” said representative from Esmee Fairbairn/Silvapower. “this is going to make a real difference to local people, and will be a huge improvement for wildlife in the area, not just for this generation, but for the generations that follow.” 

The Trust estimates the cost of purchasing the wood and bringing it into a good condition for both wildlife and local people is £1 million. They will be working hard over the next two years to secure that money, but they can only do it you’re your help. To donate or for ideas about how you can fundraise for us, visit www.grenowoods.com