Council plants thousands of trees thanks to Government grant

The Woodland Creation Grant has paved the way for nearly 25,000 trees to be planted over the winter at a number of sites in Rugby, including Coton Park, Whinfield Woods and Brownsover's Hollowell Way.

Work on the tree planting programme has now started, with native varieties such as oak, hornbeam, field maple and wild cherry being planted.

The programme has been supported by volunteers across the community, including residents, schools and businesses who have lent a helping hand at planting sessions.

The grant from Natural England was distributed in conjunction with the Forestry Commission and the Woodland Trust.

Cllr Lisa Parker, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for environment and public realm, said: "We're delighted to work with Natural England, the Forestry Commission and the Woodland Trust to plant thousands of trees across the borough.

"We have worked with the Woodland Trust on a number of projects, including Diamond Wood and Centenary Park, to increase the number of trees being planted in the borough and this latest planting programme can make a real difference to our environment and be enjoyed by generations to come."

Stuart Holm, woodland creation adviser for the Woodland Trust, said: "The Woodland Trust has been working closely with Rugby to create over 70 hectares of woodlands in parks and green spaces around the town over the past five years, and we have many more plans to continue the partnership.

"We need more trees. They are a cornerstone of our landscape and countryside, crucial not only as a home for wildlife and nature, but also forming an essential and cherished part of our cultural identity.

"But with increased losses of trees to pests and diseases, and fewer trees being planted, if we don't start doing something now the landscape could look very different in ten to 15 years.

"That's why we want to plant 64 million trees over the next ten years - one for every person in the UK."

Photo caption: Cllr Lisa Parker, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for environment and public realm, joined Warren Benson, the council's arboricultural inspector, at a tree planting session at Brownsover's Hollowell Way.