More than 50 projects led by community and volunteer groups, councils and individuals have been awarded a share of a £10 million pot to increase tree numbers in urban areas through small-scale planting projects.
The funding has been awarded as part of the second and final round of the Forestry Commission’s Urban Tree Challenge Fund.
The second round will result in the planting of over 84,000 trees in towns and cities across England.
This announcement means that there will be a combined total of up to 134,000 new trees planted across England’s towns and cities, which surpasses the fund’s original target to plant 130,000 trees.
Sir William Worsley, Chair of the Forestry Commission, spoke about the benefits of £10 million fund:
Community tree planting is a passion of mine which is why I am so excited to see projects like these benefitting from our Urban Tree Challenge Fund.
“Trees give life to our streets and our parks, help improve the health of communities, and provide homes for precious wildlife, and the thousands of new trees that will be planted will bring many benefits for generations to come.”
Forestry Minister, Lord Goldsmith, said:
Trees play a crucial role in the fight against the climate and biodiversity loss. In urban areas they can link up our valuable green spaces and connect local communities with nature – something which has never been so important.
“Ahead of our forthcoming England Tree Strategy, and to complement our manifesto ambition to have every new street lined with trees, the success of the Urban Tree Challenge Fund provides a fantastic example of how trees can be planted, managed and enjoyed, wherever you live.”
