'People’s Wood' officially opens

The 'People's Wood' - in which more than 70,000 trees have been planted, has officially opened.

The woodland planted to help the Isle of Man meet its climate change commitments has been officially opened by Chief Minister Howard Quayle in Santon. 

Mr Quayle announced the Government’s plan to develop the 45 hectare (111 acre) woodland in June 2019, a month after it pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The People’s Wood (Keyll yn Phobble in Manx) at Meary Veg can be accessed on foot from the Raad ny Foillan coastal path, and plans are in place for a car park.

So far more than 70,000 broadleaf trees have been planted including Aspen, Willow, Sycamore and Oak, since Mr Quayle planted one of the first in February 2021.

The Chief Minister, said: “I am delighted to officially open the People’s Wood. In years to come, as it develops and matures, the area will boost carbon capture, create habitat and boost biodiversity. It is also a great place for people to connect with nature for the benefit of their wellbeing.” 

The project is being delivered by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture in partnership with, and funded by, the Cabinet Office Climate Change Transformation Team.