On the 7th June 2008, the European Commission released information from European institutions and bodies  concerning the Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty Cases where the Commission raises no objections. One of the aids schemes granted was for the United Kingdom forestry sector due to start on the 31st July 2008 lasting until the 31st of July 2013.

Under Section 153 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, the Forestry Act 1979 and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, the The National Forest Company (based in Swadlincote UK) will dispose of a total budget 9 million (approximately EUR 13,25 million). This workds out at an annual budget of GBP 1,80 million (approximately EUR 2,65 million).
 

The National Forest Company

The National Forest Company leads the creation of The National Forest, a new, wooded landscape for the nation across 200 square miles of central England. The National Forest Company was established by Government in April 1995. It is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The National Forest Company:

• Attracts and uses resources for ambitious, sensitive and imaginative Forest creation.
• Provides the setting for new businesses, recreation, tourism and an improved quality of life.
• Enhances wildlife and biodiversity.