REDDITCH'S MP has joined forces with the Woodland Trust to help rescue ancient woodlands.
MP Chris Bloore paid a visit to Southcrest Woodland to shine a light on the importance of conserving Redditch's ancient woodlands and biodiversity.
His visit allowed him to see first-hand the challenges facing ancient woods and the urgent need for government action.
The Woodland Trust informed Mr Bloore about their campaign, Rescue Our Forgotten Forests, which appeals for urgent, fully funded recovery plans to save these environments.
Southcrest Woodland is one of the several ancient woodlands in Redditch, providing an essential habitat for wildlife and a valuable outdoor space for residents.
The UK's ancient woodland covers only 2.5 per cent of the land but around 40 per cent has been damaged over the last century by commercial plantations and inappropriate management.
Mr Bloore said: "It was a real privilege to visit Southcrest Woodland and witness the natural beauty and biodiversity of an ancient woodland right here in Redditch.
"Protecting these spaces isn't just about preserving our heritage - it's about tackling climate change, supporting wildlife and leaving a greener future for the next generation."
The Woodland Trust is calling on the Government to initiate fully funded, evidence-backed recovery schemes for ancient woodland restoration, revise and increase funding schemes for landowners and public bodies to rejuvenate damaged sites, and enforce stricter legal protections for ancient woods.
Mr Bloore has committed to using his influence in Westminster to advocate for this cause, alongside collaborating with local stakeholders to safeguard Redditch's natural heritage for generations to come.
He added: "The Woodland Trust's work to restore damaged ancient woods is absolutely vital.
"We face a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring these precious ecosystems back from the brink but we must act now.
"I will continue to work with the Woodland Trust to support their campaign and press the Government to do much more to protect and restore ancient woodland."