Thames Chase Community Forest

Thames Chase was established in 1990 to improve landscapes in East London and South Essex. One of 12 Community Forests in England it has been set up to regenerate and enhance the natural environment. The Forest covers 40 sq. miles through Havering, Thurrock, Barking and Dagenham and Brentwood local authorities. It aims over 40 yrs to plant 5.5 million trees and turn 30% of the area into woodland. A Community Forest is a rich mosaic of woods and farms, leisure enterprises, nature areas and public open spaces. It is a landscape for wildlife, work, recreation and education. The forest provides habitats that support a great variety of wildlife. The project is now managed by the Thames Chase Trust mainly through its volunteers.