By KLTV Newsdesk –

25-year strategy aims to boost tree cover, fight climate change, and bring communities closer to nature

Kirklees Council has officially backed the next phase of the White Rose Forest Strategic Plan, marking a major milestone in efforts to expand tree and woodland cover across North and West Yorkshire.

At a cabinet meeting on 8 July, councillors endorsed the long-term vision that sets out to deliver wide-ranging environmental benefits, from cleaner air and enhanced biodiversity to improved wellbeing and climate resilience.

A 25-Year Vision for a Greener Yorkshire

The 2025–2050 strategic plan outlines five key objectives:

• Increase tree canopy cover in line with government targets

• Protect and restore existing trees and woodlands

• Engage more people, businesses, and communities with local forestry

• Promote the transformative benefits of trees and woodlands

• Ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of the White Rose Forest

The strategy supports the UK Government’s statutory goal of expanding tree cover to 16.5% by 2050.

Leading the Charge in Environmental Action

Kirklees Council plays a central role in the White Rose Forest partnership, a coalition of 11 organisations across North and West Yorkshire.

As the designated Accountable Body, the Council is helping to steer efforts to deliver real, lasting environmental change.

Over the past 18 months, the White Rose Forest team has consulted widely with stakeholders to shape the new strategic direction.

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said: “Together with the rest of the White Rose Forest partnership, we have already achieved so much. During 2023–24 alone, 794,000 trees were planted in the White Rose Forest across 175 different projects.”

“By 2050, we want everyone in Kirklees to be closer to high-quality greenspace, and the latest plan from the White Rose Forest, named Community Forest of the Year in 2024, will help us get there.”

“As well as creating more spaces for nature and for people, trees and woodland are one of the most effective nature-based solutions for adapting to climate change. They are a potent carbon capture tool and a vital part of our mission to reach Net Zero by 2038.”

A Forest for the Future

The White Rose Forest is already making an impact, and the strategic plan for 2025–2050 will provide the blueprint for the next chapter, one rooted in community, climate action, and sustainability.

To explore the full vision, read the White Rose Forest Strategic Plan for 2025–2050.