The Vision

Introduction

The Great Western Community Forest (GWCF) is one of England's 12 Community Forests where local people and organisations are working together to create a better environment. It covers an area of 168 square miles stretching from Wootton Bassett to Faringdon and the North Wesssex Downs to the Thames.

The project is an exciting partnership between a wide range of local and regional organisations from the public, private and voluntary sectors which work together to deliver a comprehensive package of urban, economic and social regeneration. A dedicated Community Forest Team ensures that the Forest is developing on the ground over the next twenty-five years.

GWCF is creating high-quality environments for local people by diversifying land-use, revitalising derelict landscapes, enhancing biodiversity and providing new opportunities for leisure, recreation, cultural activity, education, healthy living and social and economic development. GWCF plays a crucial role in contributing to sustainable development in Swindon, the urban fringes and in the varied and beautiful surrounding countryside.

The Community Forest works closely with local people and enjoys strong community support. Our project activities provide local communities with many occasions to make decisions regarding improvements in their neighbourhood and to take ownership of their environment.