Welcome to the Forest of Avon Woodland Opportunity Mapping and Landscape Sensitivity Assessment. This study is designed to inform plan-making, development management and land use decisions within North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, and to inform planning and delivery of woodland creation projects in response to the climate and ecological emergency.
The opportunity mapping, in association with the landscape sensitivity assessment, provides a strategic-level tool for local authorities, land owners, organisations, and members of the public considering tree and woodland planting within the Forest of Avon region. It is designed to encourage and enable the planting of the right trees and woodlands in the right places, taking account of landscape character effects as well as mapping various constraints. This study follows on from a previous study undertaken by LUC in 2021 for Bath and North East Somerset Council, which can be viewed using the link below. The approach and method followed is largely consistent, however, the 2024 studies use more recent data. The mapping and guidance provided in this study should be used in conjunction with the guiding principles and priorities set out in the Forest of Avon Plan.
The opportunity mapping is focused on landscape character and should not be used in isolation when considering where to locate woodland and other tree habitat creation. It is essential that the opportunity mapping is compared and used in conjunction  with the Local Nature Recovery Strategy mapping, which shows the greatest opportunities for nature recovery across the West of England region. Using these maps together will help inform best practice and ensure the region is planting the right trees in the right place.
Many thanks to the Woodland Trust Emergency Tree Fund for supporting the delivery of the Forest of Avon Plan and the creation of this opportunity mapping to ensure the right tree, right place and right purpose principles.
Please use the links below to find out more about each area.
South Gloucestershire
Read more about the woodland opportunities and landscape sensitivity assessments for South Gloucestershire.
North Somerset
Read more about the woodland opportunities and landscape sensitivity assessments for North Somerset.
Bath and North-East Somerset
Read more about the woodland opportunities and landscape sensitivity assessments for Bath and North-East Somerset.