The National Forest, which covers an area of 200 square miles (520 km&sup2) of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, is described as "a forest in the making". It stretches from Leicester in the east to Burton-upon-Trent in the west, and links the ancient forests of Needwood and Charnwood. Planting of the forest began in 1990.

The National Forest Company is a private company attempting to plant 30 million new trees over 135 km&sup2 (33,000 acres) by convincing landowners to alter their land-use. It is hoped to increase tourism and forestry-related jobs in the area. By 2003, some 5 million trees had been planted. The stated goal is to forest one-third of the area.

Although this many trees have been planted already, they are still very small - and it will be many years before a developed forest can be seen. However, some areas are starting to develop already.

At the centre of the National Forest, is Conkers - a visitor centre located just outside the village of Moira, where visitors can explore the forest, learn about the wildlife, or just play!

In addition to Conkers, a number of tourist attractions reside within the National Forest area including the medieval castle at Ashby de la Zouch, Swadlincote Ski Centre , the stately home of Calke Abbey, and 19th century blast furnace, Moira Furnace .

As well as Ashby de la Zouch, the towns of Burton upon Trent , Swadlincote and Coalville are also located within the forest area.

External link

• The National Forest