Free trees offer expanded after flurry of orders from Northumberland residents

Northumberland County Council is one of the first local authorities in the country to launch a scheme that works with its own residents to help tackle climate change through planting more trees.

The scheme, which offers residents, schools and community groups the chance to claim free trees to plant on their own premises, received a flurry of orders, with tree bookings reaching capacity in just four days.

Cllr Glen Sanderson, cabinet member for environment and local services, said: “The public’s response to this scheme has been absolutely amazing, with thousands of our residents showing their support to tackle climate change.

“Because of this we’re delighted to extend the scheme to offer an additional 5,000 trees to our residents, schools and communities across Northumberland.”

The council has initially offered 10,000 free trees.

Nine different species of trees are available, which are suitable for small, medium and large gardens, with hedge, copse or native harvest packs available for schools and community groups.

Residents that do not have areas where they can plant a tree will be offered a small cell grown shrub which they can plant in their own container and will be suitable for properties with limited garden space, balconies or rented properties.

Collection points are currently being established, but will open in autumn/winter and will follow social distancing guidance and be held in easily accessible areas to help minimise residents’ travel and reduce their carbon footprints.

The trees are small cell grown plants, sourced from the UK and provided along with a biodegradable shelter guard, cane and an electronic link to planting and aftercare instructions.

The free trees are being offered on a 'first come, first served basis' and once all of the available trees have been ordered, the council will then just take contact details for anyone applying for a free tree who will receive priority when the scheme is launched again next year.

To find out more, please visit www.northumberland.gov.uk/climatechange

To order your free tree go to: https://bit.ly/NCCFreeTrees2020

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