Colchester Council to plant 200,000 trees across borough

Colchester Council has announced the ambitious plans, called the Colchester Woodland Project, following its declaration of a climate emergency.

As part of its Better Colchester campaign the authority will plant 200,000 trees at 20 sites across the borough, offsetting 32,000 tonnes of carbon in the trees’ lifetime.

Councillor David King (Image: Newsquest)

David King, councillor responsible for business and resources, said: “Trees and woodlands are a vital part of our eco-system.

“We are committed to preserving them, helping them to flourish and planting thousands more each and every year. This is at the very heart of the Colchester Woodland Project.

“We will encourage businesses, residents, community groups and schools to get involved and build a voluntary network to help plant and maintain the trees for a greener future.

“Our message - love your trees, play your part, help us green our beautiful borough.”

Work to plant the new trees, as well as replace dead and felled ones, will start during National Tree Week, which runs from November 23 to December 1.

Planting will continue through to March and community groups, residents, schools and business will be able to get involved.

Parish councils and schools will also be given trees to plant on their own land.

Work has already started to identify a site for a new community woodland and create a community orchard at Colchester Cemetery.

Waste, environment and transportation boss Martin Goss added: “Not only does the planting of 200,000 trees over the next five years actively demonstrate our commitment to climate change and to reducing our carbon footprint, but also to creating a Better Colchester now and for the future.”

The project is being launched at Spring Lane Park, Lexden, from 10.30am on November 23. To take part, email parks@colchester.gov.uk.