Hounslow Council has announced today that it has surpassed its tree planting target for the 2022/2023 planting season, with more than 8600 new trees established across the borough.
Published: Friday, 5th May 2023
This represents a significant increase on the Council's initial seasonal target of 7500 and is part of Hounslow’s ongoing commitment to increasing its canopy cover.
The local authority has planted 8634 trees and whips across its parks, open spaces and carriageways, including over 70 species of trees, fruits, non-fruits and natives.
As part of the Council’s bold action to tackle the climate emergency, a wider target of planting 20,000 trees – and growing more wildflowers – between 2022 and 2026, is already in place.
Councillor Salman Shaheen, Cabinet Member for Parking, Parks and Leisure, said: "We set ourselves a highly ambitious tree planting target for the 2022/2023 planting season because we recognise the vital role trees play in tackling carbon emissions and air pollution, encouraging biodiversity, and building a greener, more sustainable Hounslow.
“I am pleased to say today we've not only met that target, but exceeded it.
“We encourage residents to continue to enjoy our parks and open spaces, and take pride in the knowledge that Hounslow is taking an active role in protecting our environment for this generation, and all generations to come."
As part of Hounslow’s tree planting ambitions, residents, schools, and allotment holders were also given the opportunity to plant trees through the successful Free Trees for Hounslow initiative. 948 trees out of a possible 1,000 were given away, with any remaining trees distributed to local orchards and community groups.
Community-focused tree planting projects like the Chiswick Old Cemetery Arboretum and planting at the ROWE Community Centre in Isleworth also helped the Council surpass its target.
Trees and whips were planted in 39 parks and open spaces across the borough, with most trees planted in Thornbury Park, Lampton Park, Promenade Approach, Heston Park and Hounslow Heath.
Hounslow Highways, who work on behalf of Hounslow Council, also contributed 203 kerbside trees to the overall planting total.
The Council's £5 million investment into parks and open spaces has been used to fund a range of projects, including the planting of trees, building of new infrastructure, and the creation of new green spaces. This investment will help to ensure that Hounslow remains one of the greenest boroughs in London, with plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy nature and the outdoors.
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For more information about Hounslow Council's tree planting initiatives and other environmental programmes, please click here.
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To access information on how to adopt and care for trees, as well as details on trees walks in the borough, visit Hounslow Greentalk
