Council in search for tree planting participants

By Connor Steel

FAREHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL have confirmed that they are looking for green-fingered local residents, schools and community groups to take part in a momentous tree planting event due to begin in early 2025; which is likely to feature approximately 1,650 new trees and shrubs throughout Seafield Park (Hill Head) to create a new mini-forest in the area.

Funding has been provided by Hampshire County Council’s Forest Partnership project to carry out the planting as part of a commitment made by the local authority; this target being to plant at least a million new trees across the region by 2030. This also follows the Government’s decision to launch taskforces aimed at planting trees in all four UK countries.

The project has furthermore got huge support from Fareham Borough Councillors who state that it contributes towards mitigation the effects of climate change and provide new natural environments; which will have benefits for wildlife and biodiversity. It is also believed that this will increase visits to Hill Head and create a “family friendly” environment for all.

At least twenty different species of trees / shrubs are to be planted in this big exercise including disease resistant elms, English Oaks, beech, elders, hazel, and holly. There is further due to be a special area for wildflowers to thrive with the council offering their gratitude to ‘Wildflower Turf Ltd’ who have kindly donated all of the wildflower seed for this project.

Readers can register to take part in the unique community exercise by visiting on this secure link and filling in the short Expression of Interest form; whilst quotes from Councillor Ian Bastable and Councillor Kirsty North may be seen online.

PICTURED BY PIXABAY: Council has invited residents to come together as part of new plans to plant over 1600 trees.