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Guildford Borough Council supports National Tree Week 2024

Guildford Borough Council supports National Tree Week 2024

This week is National Tree Week, and as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, Guildford Borough Council is marking the week by highlighting the vital role trees play in our borough.

National Tree Week, which runs from 23 November to 1 December, marks the traditional start of the winter tree planting season.

Organised by The Tree Council and partners, the week offers an important opportunity to reflect on the positive impact of tree planting in our local communities, and the long-term benefits trees provide for the environment and wellbeing.

Cllr George Potter, Lead Councillor for Planning, Environment and Climate Change, said:

“Trees are really important in our communities. Not only do they provide a striking appearance to our borough, they also help us in the fight against climate change. Every tree we plant or protect is a step towards creating a more sustainable future for our community.

“Our tree planting programmes help us to create and preserve green spaces so that everyone can enjoy our outdoors and the beauty and wellbeing that trees bring.

“This work is just another part of our vision for a greener, more sustainable future, and we will be continuing with our tree planting projects throughout 2024 and beyond.”

Tree planting is a key part of the council’s environmental strategy. This winter, the council aims to plant 550 trees, through its own schemes, and by planting on council land with the help of Surrey County Council  and grant funding.

The council is also joining Surrey County Council to plant a community orchard on Shalford Common in partnership with Shalford, Chilworth, Peasmarsh Climate Action Group.

 The aim is to establish a diverse and resilient tree stock by:

  • increasing the number of trees each year
  • applying for external grants to cover costs
  • replacing trees that have been removed following inspections
  • seeking out new planting locations across the borough.

One of the council’s key priorities is to create a more sustainable borough and the tree planting programmes support this.

Trees not only help reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, they help to improve air quality and also enhance biodiversity, support wildlife, and provide natural habitats.

More information about the council’s tree planting strategy can be found on our website.