This project aims to plant trees that will deliver a wealth of benefits for people and nature, and is underpinned by the ‘right tree, right place’ principle.
By applying this principle to our tree planting plans, we can ensure that trees:
- Will thrive and fulfil their true potential to provide all possible benefits
- Complement landscape character and protect important views
- Protect land where soils already store carbon efficiently and effectively
- Avoid damage or loss of ecological habitats, species, and heritage features
- Contribute to the tree and woodland aspirations of the West of England Nature Partnership's (WENP) Nature Recovery Network and Forest of Avon Plan
How we will plant street trees
When planting in residential areas, we will plant trees in line with property boundaries and not directly outside of homes or driveways. We will select species of trees with characteristics that will fit into the urban environment. We will consider the mature height and width of the trees, as well as how planted trees would affect utilities and the surrounding infrastructure.
Final plans will be approved by our Highways Department to ensure road user safety, accessibility, and functionality of existing street furniture.
Long-term management
Our proposals consider the long-term threats faced by trees from pests, disease, and climate change. We will avoid planting a single species, or a ‘monoculture’, of trees in a single location. A mix of species will ensure greater resilience to pests and disease, while also increasing local biodiversity.
This year we will also be planting some species of trees that have not been previously planted on streets in the district. We will be trialling species that are thought to be more resilient to the effects of climate change.
We will undertake the long-term management of new trees, with regular inspections throughout their lifetime and routine maintenance works carried out where appropriate.