THE entire Smithills Estate is now under the ownership and protection of the Woodland Trust.

The charity has completed its purchase of the sprawling 1,700-acre landscape of open countryside, streams and woodland, which is now its largest site in England.

Two-thirds of the estate was bought by the trust for £3 million in 2015, and it has now purchased the remainder of the land after a recent public appeal that raised more than £250,000 and confirmation of a £400,000 Biffa Award grant.

It was announced recently that Smithills will be the first site where trees are planted in the massive Government-backed Northern Forest scheme.

Beccy Speight, Woodland Trust CEO, said: “The Woodland Trust is delighted to announce the purchase of the final piece of the Smithills Estate, guaranteeing its future and protecting the rights of people to explore the site free of charge year round.

“This moment also marks the establishment of the foundation stone for the new Northern Forest, announced as part of the Government’s 25 year plan for the environment earlier this month.

“With restoration and regeneration, this long overlooked gem will become a real asset to the North West for people and wildlife. Social enterprise opportunities are ripe for the picking and the enthusiastic response from the local community is helping us drive forward our plans. A huge thank you to those who donated to the fundraising appeal and the many people who have offered practical support. There will be many more chances to get involved on the horizon so please keep your eyes peeled. Tree planting begins in a matter of weeks so have your wellies and spades at the ready.”

The new land includes Barrow Bridge, a woodland area of steep cloughs and streams that is a vibrant habitat for wildlife and contains several historical features, such as the 63 Miners’ Steps.

During its Smithills project, the trust plans to plant 130,000 new trees.