The Councils Tree Management Policy ‘Living with Trees 2021-2026’ represents our continued commitment to look after and enhance one of our most valuable natural resources. It demonstrates our proactive approach to inspecting, planting, maintenance, and management of the tree population, as well as an all-round improved service to our citizens and community.

The Tree Management Policy builds on the 5-year workplan of the previous policy, which achieved the surveying of 30,000 trees, the implementation of the cyclical management regime of street trees, and the planting of 6,314 new trees.  

The plan aims to continue to survey all street trees to produce an objective prioritised tree maintenance schedule and a proactive tree management programme.

We will expand the tree canopy in the County to combat climate change. Trees act as carbon sinks, storing carbon as they grow, reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere and thereby reducing climate change impacts, which is central to our Climate Change Action Plan 2019-2024 objectives.

A public awareness and education programme will be implemented, to provide information on the importance of trees to our mental, physical, and environmental state. Trees are living organisms and are a unique part of the landscape biodiversity. Many trees are long-lived, offering enjoyment and a range of benefits to residents both now and in the future. They make a huge contribution to the urban landscape, enhancing the quality of life for people living, working and visiting the County.