News Tiny Forest project boosts biodiversity and climate resilience across Maidstone
Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is strengthening its position at the forefront of nature recovery and climate resilience through the continued success of its Tiny Forest programme, with multiple sites now thriving across the borough.
Developed by Japanese botanist and plant ecologist Dr Akira Miyawaki, a Tiny Forest is a dense and diverse miniature woodland created by planting native species very closely together.
In these conditions, the healthy competition for sunlight and nutrients encourages the trees to grow ten times faster than conventional planting methods.
These forests deliver significant environmental benefits by supporting a wide range of birds, insects, fungi and small mammals, while improving air quality, cooling surrounding urban areas, and enriching soil health.
The initiative has already seen the creation of several thriving sites across the borough; each transforming unused land into vibrant green spaces filled with native trees, plants, and wildlife.
The flagship site at Midley Close in Allington brings together three important elements of the council’s nature recovery plans: a fast growing native woodland, a community food forest, and a connecting hedgerow corridor that encourages wildlife to move safely between habitats. These features combine to create a rich and varied landscape that supports biodiversity, strengthens community green spaces and contributes to long term climate resilience and sustainability.
Midley Close also includes a small hazel copse that can be harvested through traditional coppicing techniques. This approach helps maintain the health of the trees, while preserving heritage woodland skills and providing a sustainable source of natural materials.
The project has brought renewed life to what was previously an underused green space. Residents of all ages now have new, local opportunities to spend time in nature, discover wildlife, and take part in activities that support learning, wellbeing and community connection.
Alongside Midley, additional sites at Chillington Street, Mangravet and Foley Close each offer their own layouts and ecological benefits, contributing collectively to the borough’s wider nature recovery ambitions.
Cllr Rachel Rodwell, MBC Cabinet Member for Nature and Climate Transition, said:
It is wonderful to see our Tiny Forests growing so well and already bringing so much life to these neighbourhoods. These spaces are for everyone, and we would love residents to come along, explore them, and enjoy the calm green pockets they create. It is amazing what a big difference these young forests are making, and we are excited to keep expanding them across Maidstone.
This work represents only the beginning of a much larger programme as the council is exploring opportunities to introduce more Tiny Forests across the borough. The initiative creates greener neighbourhoods, supports community wellbeing and helps the areas adapt to the growing impacts of climate change.
The Tiny Forest project reflects MBC’s commitment to enhancing green spaces, promoting biodiversity and strengthening community connections through environmental stewardship. The council looks forward to sharing further progress as the network of urban forests continues to grow.