New wood with hundreds of trees set to be created in Barnsley

The trees have been planted on land off West Road in Pogmoor, thanks to Barnsley’s Youth Council and Remedi Restorative Justice.

The groups joined forces to win an urban tree fund bid from the National Forestry Commission, which funded the project.

The tree planting project, named “The Terrific Tree Task”, will run from 2020 to 2023.

Over the past four months, following COVID-19 guidelines, the group of young people have picked litter, prepared the land, and planted the trees. .

Mel John-Ross, executive director for children’s services, said: “We are so proud of our young people and this project is testament to their dedication and community spirit. They have volunteered their time and worked extremely hard to create a green space for everyone to enjoy. Lots of people and partners have worked together on this project, and it’s fantastic to see it starting to flourish.”

Mark Ward, ,manager at Barnsley Remedi, said: “This bid was a cumulative effort between the Remedi Team alongside Barnsley Council’s Youth Voice and Participation team and most importantly the young people of the Youth Council.

“Thanks as well goes to Twiggs for their support in getting the trees planted swiftly, and helping the planning of the area, and providing trees covers, and supporting our young people to help plant all of the trees.

“Remedi will support the project , by further allocating the site for new reparation projects, and to ensure alongside the Youth Council, staff and community, that the area is maintained and looked after.”