THE MAYOR of Worcester has pledged to plant 2,000 new trees in a bid to enhance the city’s green, open spaces.
At one of several planting sessions over the winter months, Coun Roger Knight joined forces with Worcestershire Explorer Scouts on Saturday (January 9) to plant new hazel, oak and holly trees in Battenhall Park.
With nearly half of the trees being donated by the Woodland Trust, the ambitious programme will help to expand the existing woodland in the park whilst improving biodiversity and recreational opportunities.
A community orchard will also be created which will provide fresh fruit for local people.
Speaking of the benefits of the project, Coun Knight said: “Trees add greatly to the appearance of our city, and they are really loved by local people. I have made this pledge to ensure trees will continue to enhance Worcester’s green open spaces for generations to come.”
For the last four years, Worcester has also received funding from the charity Trees for Cities, enabling local volunteers to plant 143 semi-mature trees and 2,000 sapling trees in Brickfields and Warndon Park, as well as improve biodiversity at Pitchcroft, Perdiswell, Fort Royal Park and Laugherne Brook.
Stuart Holm, Woodland Trust woodland creation adviser, said: “The UK has a much lower amount of woodland cover than elsewhere in Europe and we can only increase what we have by working in partnership to encourage others to plant.
“We’re delighted to work with Worcester City Council and hope that the 880 hazel trees we’ve provided will be enjoyed by many in years to come and provide valuable habitats for wildlife too.”
