Guildford Borough Council supports National Tree Week 2024

This week is National Tree Week. As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, we're marking the week by highlighting the vital role trees play in our borough.

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

Organised by The Tree Council and partners, the week provides the opportunity to:

• reflect on the positive impact of tree planting in our local communities
• the long-term benefits trees provide for the environment and wellbeing.

Cllr George Potter, Lead Councillor for 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 our environmental strategy. This winter, we aim to plant 550 trees. This is through our own schemes, and by planting on council land with the help of Surrey County Council and grant funding.

We're also joining Surrey County Council to plant a community orchard on Shalford Common. This is 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 our key priorities is to create a more sustainable borough. Our tree planting programmes support this aim.

Benefits of planting trees:

• trees help to reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere
• they help to improve air quality
• they enhance biodiversity, support wildlife, and provide natural habitats.

 Find out more about our tree planting strategy