Crooks Farm, Durham

Crooks Farm in Barnham, County Durham is continuing an ambitious woodland creation project that will see approximately 40,000 trees planted over 30 hectares of land. Planting began in 2024 with 5 hectares established. Another 9.04 hectares were planted in Spring 2025, and the final phase will be completed in 2026.Supported by NECF, the Woodland Trust, and Carma, this project promotes wildlife connectivity and regenerative agriculture practices.

Land Ownership – Private; Tenant farmer 

Features Implemented

  • Woodland creation
  • Hedgerows
  • Wood pasture
  • Orchards
  • Wildflowers/Bulbs

Community Engagement

School pupils were involved in tree planting activities to encourage future generations to value trees and climate balance.

Project Impact

Tree planting will significantly contribute to carbon absorption, create habitats for wildlife, and protect biodiversity.

Design & Approach

Located in the River Greta Valley, the design connects new woodland with wetlands for cattle grazing, respecting existing habitats for ground-nesting birds and enabling flora and fauna movement.

Partnerships

Woodland Trust collaborated with the tenant farmer initially, then NECF worked with the landowner and Woodland Trust to secure Forestry Commission consent, achieving UKFS compliance.

Funding

Funded via NECF Trees for Climate Grant and part-funded by Carma, committed to social and environmental impacts through tree planting.

Key Stats

  • Total trees planted so far: 10,511.  
  • Planted adjacent to ancient woodland and public rights of way.  
  • Blended finance package (Defra Trees for Climate and Carma funded). 

Quotes

Rob Lowes, Tenant Farmer: ‘This is a great opportunity to vastly improve our conservation-minded approach while improving public rights of way.’
Eleanor Hopkins, NECF: ‘Planting these trees will create a thriving environment, buffer ancient woodland, and inspire regenerative practices.’

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