Woodland Trust project to transform traditional Silsden farmstead into nature haven

Eventually it is aimed that the site will feature more than 30,000 native trees, including species such as sessile oak, wild cherry, silver birch and rowan. In addition, another five hectares of rare ancient woodland will be restored, enhancing biodiversity in an area with some of the lowest tree cover in the UK.

The trust said the farm’s “prime location” near the popular Millennium Way walking route meant pathways would connect the woodland to the trail, “making it an ideal spot for walkers, families and nature enthusiasts to explore and enjoy”.

Sam Tarrant, head of partnerships at the trust, said: “This is a really exciting project for us and will bring much needed trees to Yorkshire.

“We are looking to create a nature haven, for people and wildlife. With our climate changing, trees are our natural warriors and projects like this are crucial. We can’t deliver these projects alone though and we are delighted Lloyds is supporting us to realise our ambitions at Hayhills.”

Reacting to a Government report highlighting the UK’s food security risks in December, the Wildlife Trusts said: “We know that there should not be a trade-off between growing food and restoring nature.”

Responding to the Government’s land use consultation last month, Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore highlighted how Defra had estimated nine per cent of farmland would have to stop being farmed to meet green targets, a further five per cent would be lost due to a reduction in food output and four per cent more would be shifted towards tree planting.

Mr Moore, who recently visited the site, said he warmly welcomed the Hayhills Farm scheme, describing it as “creating something that truly brings the community together”.

The MP for Keighley and Ilkley added: “This project will give local wildlife a real boost, open up more green space for locals and offer young people exciting learning opportunities. It’s a chance for everyone to roll up their sleeves, get involved and truly connect with nature - creating a space that will be enjoyed by generations to come.”

With the tree planting season already underway, residents, schools and community groups have been invited to join the effort, with opportunities for volunteering and outdoor learning activities available throughout the year.

The trust says over the next 50 years, the woodland at Hayhills Farm is set to evolve into a thriving habitat for local wildlife, serving as a long-term carbon store and provide a sustainable space for the community to enjoy the outdoors. The site is part of the Northern Forest – a plan to plant 50 million trees across the M62 corridor, between Liverpool and Hull.