The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum have received a generous £190,000 grant from The Julia Rausing Trust to support their Silk Wood Community Planting Project (SWCPP) over the next two years. This funding will help restore five hectares of Silk Wood, an ancient semi-natural woodland at Westonbirt Arboretum, which was severely affected by Chalara ash die-back.
Silk Wood, a vital part of the arboretum’s ecosystem, will be revitalised with the planting of 9,000 trees across a diverse range of species. The project aims to restore the lost habitat while increasing opportunities for community engagement in nature and encouraging inclusivity across all backgrounds.
Emma Griffiths, CEO of The Friends, expressed her gratitude: “We are over the moon and beyond grateful to The Julia Rausing Trust for their support. This project is all about inclusion and community, ensuring that people from all walks of life, including young people, those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and those with physical and neurodiverse conditions, can actively participate in restoring Silk Wood. It’s a project that not only focuses on vital reforestation but also fosters a deep connection between people and nature.”
This initiative will involve a range of community groups, schools, and volunteers, all contributing to the project through tree planting, ground clearance, mulching, and ongoing monitoring. These activities will help increase public engagement with nature, creating a lasting impact on the health and accessibility of the woodland.
Andrew Smith, Director of Westonbirt Arboretum, noted: “We’ve already planted 3,800 trees in the first year, restoring six acres of woodland. Nearly 1,000 people from various community groups have been involved, which has been a fantastic step in creating more opportunities for people to access nature.”
The grant from The Julia Rausing Trust will ensure the project continues through to its completion in 2026, with plans for further tree planting and the introduction of artist and educational workshops to enhance the experience for participants. This collaboration aligns with the Trust’s aim of supporting projects that foster community inclusion and a connection to heritage.
For more information on how you can get involved or support this project, visit The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum website at www.fowa.org.uk.
Image: Alison Whaley
