The ancient Great North Wood that gave its name to Croydon’s Norwood wards is to be celebrated and partially revived thanks to a £700,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Over the next four years Croydon Council will be supporting the London Wildlife Trust (LWT) as they work on a collaborative project with volunteers, community groups, and landowners.

Several other neighbouring authorities are also involved, all of which manage land that used to be part of the ancient woodland.

The LWT team will be revitalising small areas of woodland that, throughout the Middle Ages, spread out and joined together to cover the high ground between Deptford and Selhurst and provided timber, charcoal and firewood for the emerging capital. They will be doing this in a modern urban landscape whilst also raising awareness of a woodland that largely disappeared many years ago by encouraging residents and visitors to explore, enjoy and value the natural wealth on their doorsteps.

The Trust will also address modern pressures such as overuse, fly-tipping and inconsistent management, to ensure this living landscape is recognised.

“The award to such a wonderful organisation as LWT is fantastic news," Councillor Timothy Godfrey said.

"I’ve always lived in South Norwood and represent Selhurst on the council, so it’s extra special to celebrate the ancient heritage of our borough and wider area.

"The Great North Wood was central to the growth of London as the nation’s capital.

"Protecting and enhancing what remains of it is essential for future residents. Croydon will be offering whatever support we can to the project.”