The Young People's Forest is a former opencast coal mine transformed into a haven for wildlife and people.

Almost 1.3 million people live within 20 minutes’ drive of the Mead site, in Heanor, Derbyshire.

Known to have belonged to the Vikings over 1,000 years ago, the site has changed hands many times since. After beginning in the 18th century, coal mining only ended here in 2015. The scarred landscape has been restored to farmland with paths, fencing and the occasional pond, but though it’s now a green and pleasant contrast to its past appearance, the former mine is barren with low ecological value.

This blank canvas has much more to offer people and wildlife. Since we took ownership of the whole site, we have planted more than 250,000 trees to create thriving new woodland, fringed with hedgerows and scattered with bio-diverse ponds, open spaces and swathes of glorious species-rich grassland.

The Young People’s Forest is a fantastic opportunity to inspire the younger generation on a massive scale. We want children and young people to really engage with the project and feel that the wood is truly theirs. 

This special place will become a giant outdoor classroom for children and young people aged 10-20. They have been involved right from the start, planting trees, learning about nature and designing, delivering and taking part in activities.

YOU CAN HELP

We’re delighted to have raised sufficient funds to secure the entire site in to Woodland Trust ownership. We have received fantastic support from Pears Foundation, the Pears #iwill Fund, the Veolia Environmental Trust and Biffa Award, as well as Nationwide Building Society and a gift left by a Trust supporter in their will. This funding has helped the project get off to a flying start. Local members and supporters have also played a crucial part. But to totally fulfil our vision in the long term, creating vibrant habitats and engaging young people every step of the way, we will still need to raise around £631,000.

Donate to the appeal

Whatever you choose to give, donating online is secure, quick and cost effective, so more money goes directly towards achieving our vision for this important site.