Central Bedfordshire backs Forest of Marston Vale expansion bid

Central Bedfordshire Council leaders have backed plans to expand the Forest of Marston Vale as part of a proposed new National Forest programme, highlighting decades of environmental transformation and community benefits across the area.

Central Bedfordshire Council has thrown its support behind plans to significantly expand the Forest of Marston Vale as part of the Government’s proposed new National Forest programme.

The Government recently announced ambitions to create two new National Forests across the UK, backed by a £1 billion investment in tree planting and nature recovery.

In response, Council Leader Councillor Adam Zerny and Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience Councillor Tracey Wye have written a letter supporting the Forest of Marston Vale Trust’s bid to help deliver the project.

Over the past three decades, the Forest of Marston Vale has transformed land once dominated by clay extraction, brickworks and landfill into thriving woodland and green space between Bedford and Milton Keynes.

Tree coverage across the area has increased from just three per cent to 17 per cent, with around 2.75 million trees and shrubs planted since the project began.

The Council says the work has boosted biodiversity, improved access to nature and helped tackle climate change, while also creating volunteering opportunities and connecting communities with green spaces close to home.

Councillor Adam Zerny said: “The Forest of Marston Vale is a powerful example of how long-term planning, joint-working and community engagement can transform a landscape and bring about huge benefits for nature and wildlife.”

Councillor Tracey Wye added that the restoration work around Stewartby had been “nothing short of remarkable”, describing the Trust as “a safe pair of hands” to help deliver future woodland projects.

The Council’s letter also highlights the Trust’s experience in balancing woodland creation with housing growth — an important challenge in rapidly developing parts of Central Bedfordshire.