Stamford Brook Community Woodland in Broadheath is to be officially designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
Trafford Council and the National Trust have been working to establish the status, in consultation with Natural England.
To qualify as Local Nature Reserves (LNR), places must be rich in wildlife and offer opportunities for study, research or enjoyment of nature.
The beauty spot is a mix of partly ancient woodland with broadleaf, scrub and wetland, with a circular, accessible trail.
It borders Stamford Brook, a development of 700 homes on land that was formerly owned by the National Trust as part of the Dunham Massey estate.
Managed by the National Trust, the woodland is home to a myriad of plant species - including the uncommon wild angelica, lady’s glove, red campion and wood horsetail - and is popular among dog walkers, cyclists, runners and local walking groups.
Birds known to breed locally include sparrowhawk and kestrel, warblers such as blackcap and willow warbler, and seasonal visitors including the spotted flycatcher and mistlethrush.
Over the coming years, the National Trust plans to further improve the quality of habitats, create new maps to help visitors navigate the site and identify wildlife and habitats, repair and improve paths, and create an area where communities can stage events for families and groups.
Stamford Brook Community Woodland will be part of a network of local nature sites including those with special scientific interest, conservation areas and irreplaceable habitats, where the natural environment is prioritised.
These could include Denzell Gardens and The Devisdale, Dunham Massey and Altrincham Golf Course.
The Manchester Ship Canal, Bridgewater Canal, Mersey Valley and Bollin Valley are also included, plus the Sinderland, Fairywell and Timperley Brook corridors.
Cllr Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said: “We’re delighted to be able to work towards designating Stamford Brook Community Woodland as a Local Nature Reserve, as a way to protect and enhance this beautiful place for more people to enjoy.
“This ties in with the Council’s priorities for addressing climate change and helping all in the borough to live healthy and independent lives.”
