New Forest Towns to Transform Oxford-Cambridge Area
The Oxford-Cambridge corridor is set to undergo a remarkable transformation with the announcement of new forest towns nestled within a newly established national forest. This ambitious project aims to create a harmonious blend of urban development and natural beauty, addressing the need for housing while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
Amidst growing concerns from environmental groups about the deregulation in the upcoming planning bill, the government is taking proactive steps to demonstrate the compatibility of mass housing development and nature conservation. The initiative promises to plant millions of trees, significantly enhancing England's natural landscape.
Mary Creagh, the nature minister, shared her vision: "Building on the legacy of garden cities post-World War II, we envision forest cities that bring nature closer to people, create green jobs in these new communities, and contribute to our efforts in combating climate change."
The government's commitment to this project is evident through the investment in the "Ox-Cam corridor" by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The goal is to connect the cities and establish a hub akin to 'Europe's Silicon Valley'. This development is projected to significantly boost the UK's economy, potentially adding up to £78 billion by 2035.
The plan involves constructing new towns and rail links between Oxford and Cambridge, ensuring easy access to the nearby forest. This forest will serve as a green haven for residents and workers, offering high-quality nature reserves that complement the urban environment.
Creagh emphasized the alignment of this announcement with Keir Starmer's Cop30 commitments, highlighting the country's dedication to environmental leadership. She stated, "We are showcasing our commitment to global environmental goals by demonstrating how the government and developers can collaborate to build communities, provide attractive housing, and create desirable locations for residents and builders alike."
The homes in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor will be conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the forest, fostering a deep connection between residents and nature. Creagh envisioned these towns as places where families would thrive, and nature would flourish.
In addition to the Oxford-Cambridge project, the government is committed to establishing another national forest in the north of England. A competition to determine the forest's location will be launched early next year, as part of a broader initiative to allocate over £1 billion to tree planting and forestry support during this parliamentary term. The Western Forest, announced in March, is the first new national forest in three decades, stretching from the Cotswolds to the Mendips.
The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) has underscored the economic benefits of tree planting, estimating that meeting tree planting targets could create and support over 14,000 jobs across Britain. Defra also plans to explore a woodland carbon purchase fund, offering upfront payments to landowners for planting carbon-rich woodlands.
Emma Reynolds, the environment secretary, emphasized the importance of woodlands in climate regulation, wildlife support, and increased access to nature. She announced, "We are fulfilling our manifesto commitment by establishing three new national forests. Planting is already underway in the West Country, and we will launch a competition for the third forest next year."
Further details about the government's biodiversity measures are expected in the rewritten environmental improvement plan, which is set to be published soon. This plan will outline the strategies ministers will employ to meet the legally binding nature targets outlined in the 2021 Environment Act.
