A Forest For You

'Forests are essential for our planet's well being. They contribute to the stability of our climate, provide habitats for an enormous variety of plant and animal species, protect water and land resources and are an important economic resource.'(’Rio Earth Summit Agreement.The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, Rio de Janeiro, June 1992.)

The Great Western Community Forest was founded in 1994 alongside eleven other Community Forests across England, in part as a result of priorities for environmental protection and sustainable living, established in the Rio Earth Summit Agreement of 1992.

The main aims of the Forest partnership are to:

• Champion the development of a multi-purpose forest around Swindon, incorporating a balanced mix of woods, farmland, open space and communities.
• Encourage community involvement in the creation, maintenance and enjoyment of the Forest and instill a strong sense  of ownership and pride in the local environment.
• Encourage sustainable development in the Forest, including employment and education opportunities that make use of the Forest itself.
• Ensure the long term viability of the Great Western Community Forest

A copy of the 1994 Forest Plan which gives full details of the Great Western Community Forest objectives is available as a PDF. Due to its size it is not available to download but if you contact the GWCF office, we will be happy to send you a CD.