Three new coronation woodlands created in Devon

The designs will include access for the public to explore the woodlands

Three new woodlands are being created in Devon, Forestry England has announced.

The areas would be named Coronation Woods to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, the agency said.

The creations, supported by the Nature for Climate Fund, are to be managed by Forestry England to provide sustainably-grown timber for the nation.

The designs will include access for the public to explore the woodlands.

The forests will be located on a site at Quoditch, land between High Bickington and Langridge, and at Northlew between existing woodlands at Cookworthy and Abbeyford.

According to Forestry England, the woods would be planted with a mixture of tree species chosen to match local soil types and to be resilient under the expected future climate.

Local Forestry England director Kevin Stannard said: "Creating these new forests from scratch is an exciting opportunity to apply the latest evidence-based forestry quite literally from the ground up, while ensuring that each woodland is designed sympathetically for its landscape.

"We are keen to engage local communities in the design process and incorporate their needs and hopes for these woodlands."

He added: "As much as they will be productive working forests and places for wildlife to thrive, they will also be valuable spaces for people to enjoy."

The new woodlands will contribute to Forestry England's ambition to create 2,000 hectares of new woodland by 2026.