Guildford celebrates National Tree Week 2025
National Tree Week runs from 22 to 30 November 2025 and marks the start of the winter tree planting season.
This nationwide initiative is led by The Tree Council. It highlights the importance of trees in protecting the environment and encourages communities to get involved in caring for them.
While planting new trees is important, our main priority is to preserve and protect the borough's existing tree stock. This ensures our green spaces remain healthy and resilient for generations to come.
This year, the council's parks and environmental teams have carried out:
- 1,104 individual tree inspections
- 156 site inspections
to keep Guildford's green spaces safe and thriving.
These checks help monitor tree health, manage risks and safeguard biodiversity.
Why do trees matter?
- trees absorb carbon dioxide
- they improve air quality
- they reduce flooding
- and they provide vital habitats for wildlife.
They make our towns and countryside more beautiful. They also boost wellbeing by creating spaces for relaxation and recreation. Protecting and caring for trees is one of the most effective ways to tackle climate change and support nature.
Cllr Angela Goodwin, Lead Councillor for Environment and Recreation at Guildford Borough Council said:
"Trees are the lungs of our borough - they clean our air, support wildlife and biodiversity and help us tackle climate change. They make Guildford a more beautiful and welcoming place for everyone. National Tree Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the vital role trees play in our lives and the incredible work our teams do all year to protect and care for them.
"We're not just planting for today; we're planning for the future. By preserving our existing tree stock and creating new spaces like the community orchard in Park Barn, we're building a healthier, greener Guildford for generations to come. This is about working together - as a council and as a community - to protect nature, boost biodiversity, and create spaces where people and wildlife can thrive."
Get involved
Residents are being asked to help protect Guildford's trees. You can:
- Report any concerns about tree health or safety on the council's website
- Join local tree planting and care events
- Learn more about the benefits of trees and how you can support biodiversity at home or in the community
Cllr Goodwin went on to say:
"We're excited to support the creation of a new community orchard in Park Barn, in partnership with COPSE (Community Orchard Project South East) and Surrey Wildlife Trust.
"Planting for this orchard will take place next week. This project is a fantastic way to boost biodiversity, tackle climate change and create a space for the community to enjoy for years to come."
More information about National Tree Week can be found on the Tree Council's website.