THE planting of thousands of trees to create a community woodland in the north of Darlington will begin this month.

Up to 36,000 trees will be planted on 20 hectares of agricultural land alongside the River Skerne, near Barmpton village. The land is being bought with £50,000 of landfill tax credit, allocated by County Durham Environmental Trust.

Trust chairman John Wearmouth said the wood was aimed at complementing existing woodland in the area and encouraging local people to enjoy outdoor pursuits.

"We are proud to be part of this project, which aims to bring the countryside into the town, providing the community with an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life," he said.

"We hope that the start of this project will prompt the creation of similar projects within the area."

The native broadleaved woodland will include species such as oak, ash, birch, willow, hazel and black poplar.

It is expected to open early next year when local schools will be invited to enter a competition to find a name.

The winning school will have its chosen name printed on subsequent literature and information boards for the woodland.

Among future plans for the area are the development of cycle paths, car parking, toilet facilities and recreational areas, including picnic tables and a children's play area.

Neil Marson, manager of the North-East Community Forests Development Company, which will be responsible for managing the woodland, said: "This development will be a landmark site.

"It will give people the opportunity to enjoy fun days out within beautiful surroundings, offering something to suit everyone, with pleasant walkways for adults and recreational areas for the children.

"Once the development is complete we hope that local schools will visit to teach the children about environmental issues and, in particular, to look at the wildlife that is specific to the woodland."

Rob George, countryside officer at Darlington Borough Council, said: "This is a big step forward for Darlington and will provide a gateway site for people across the area to enjoy premium access to the countryside."