NATIVE woodland which was a key feature centuries ago in what is now the North York Moors National Park is making a comeback.
About 250 hectares of woodland has been planted, with a further 150 hectares planned.
The scheme is a joint venture between the National Park, the Forestry Commission, English Nature, the Royal Forestry Society and the Woodland Trust to ensure the return of native trees.
Park woodland officer Paul Harris said: "At present, the native woodland in the park is isolated and fragmented."
One area being highlighted is at Bilsdale, where ancient woodlands are to be restored.
However, there was criticism from Hawnby parish council of planting native trees along the riverside near the village church because it would prevent cattle getting to the water.
Calls were made for controls to be imposed and Mr Harris said the Forestry Commission was as anxious as the National Park authority to protect the landscape.
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