Mapping the spread of woodland

The National Forest is transforming the landscape at such a pace, Ordnance Survey has already updated its 2004 version and published a new National Forest Explorer map. The latest map is considerably greener than the first National Forest OS map published in 2000. Since then more than 2,650 hectares (6,150 acres) of new woodland and over 500km of new footpaths have been created. This 1:25 000 scale map covers most of The National Forest area, which stretches across the towns of Burton upon Trent, Swadlincote, Ashby de la Zouch and Coalville. It shows visitor centres, campsites, new visitor attractions and recreation features such as fishing lakes and horseriding trails. The map details public rights of way, permissive paths and access land through which visitors can walk.

The map is on sale from the usual outlets or online through The National Forest’s giftshop at www.nationalforest.org, price £7.50 (inc p&p), or contact the NFC on 01283 551 211. The map is an ideal partner to The National Forest Walks Pack. This loose-leaf pack of walks, ranging from three to 22 miles long, takes in ancient Forest and new woodlands and highlights historical points of interest. It has a durable plastic binder and is available for just £5 from either the NFC or from Tourist Information Centres throughout the Forest.