Spitfire Forest woodland proposed for south of Twyford

Forestry England has proposed a 168-hectare forest just south of Twyford near Winchester, with the public now invited to share their views through an online consultation open until Sunday, June 14.

The woodland, called Spitfire Forest, is named in tribute to Hampshire’s wartime history.

New woodland will connect to existing mature woodland nearby. (Image: Henry Terry)

On 15 August 1940, a day known as 'Black Thursday', the skies over southern England witnessed some of the most intense aerial combat of the Battle of Britain.

According to local accounts, a Spitfire made an emergency landing near Twyford on that day.

One account even placed the landing at Park Farm itself, the land where Forestry England is planning to create the forest, though the team said it is still investigating the full story.

Craig Harrison, South England director at Forestry England, said: "Spitfire Forest will be a place for wildlife to thrive and for local people to explore and enjoy for generations to come.

"We’re proud to be creating a woodland designed for the future with such a meaningful connection to the area’s past."

Spitfire Forest is part of a wider national effort to increase tree cover across England and deliver environmental, social and economic benefits.

Unplanted land at Spitfire Forest. (Image: Henry Terry)

The project is funded through the government’s Trees Programme.

Forestry England plans to plant a diverse mix of tree species that are resilient to pests, disease and climate change.

The woodland will absorb carbon, support wildlife such as birds, bats and insects, and, over time, provide a source of sustainable timber.

The name also reflects the Spitfire’s deep roots in Hampshire – the iconic aircraft was designed in Southampton and first flew from Eastleigh Aerodrome in 1936.

It stands as a long-term memorial to the region’s contribution to the war effort.

Mr Harrison said: "We’re now asking local people to share their views with us and help to shape the new woodland.

"We’ve published draft design plans as part of a public consultation, which is open until June 14.

"I encourage anyone with an interest in this area to get involved and tell us what they think."

The site will become a new green space for the community to enjoy, supporting both nature recovery and public recreation.

To learn more about the plans or to take part in the consultation, visit forestryengland.uk/woodland-creation/spitfire-forest.