Southwark tree planting programme exceeds ambitious targets
15 March 2022
Southwark Council’s ambitious tree planting programme, which aimed to introduce 10,000 new trees to the borough by the end of 2022, has already exceeded its target and is set to continue its planting plans.
The 11,500th tree, planted in Leathermarket Gardens on 15 March by the council’s tree specialists and Cllr Catherine Rose, contributed to the 150 different tree species already planted across the borough over the past two years.
The young tree, known as an Indian Bean Tree, will add a shady spot to the nearby playground as it grows. It will flower in late summer and provide autumnal food for wildlife. The species was introduced to the UK in 1726.
Cllr Catherine Rose, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Environment and Roads said: “I am delighted that we have already surpassed our ambitious and exciting tree planting programme.
“Tackling air pollution, reducing carbon emissions and supporting a thriving and biodiverse environment are key priorities for the council in our aims to be carbon neutral by 2030.
“No less than 11,500 trees have already been planted over the past two years, helping to create beautiful and sustainable neighbourhoods where biodiversity and wildlife can flourish. Trees bring direct benefit to people, through wildlife, shading and temperature reduction, absorbing emissions and creating clean air.
“Our plans to make Southwark the greenest borough it can be, will continue.”
Southwark Council surveyed its streets, parks, woodlands and 34 Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation to help to inform the Tree Planting Strategy, and identify locations that would benefit from tree planting.
The tree planting programme, one of the biggest in London, is a key component of Southwark’s strategy to be carbon neutral by 2030. It incorporates an ecological project plan costing £5million to ensure that new trees are planted, cared for and replaced as necessary, so all our streets and green spaces can flourish.
Page last updated: 15 March 2022
