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District Council’s free tree scheme running for sixth year

Posted on: Monday, December 2, 2024

Newark and Sherwood District Council is proud to relaunch its FREE tree scheme, which has given more than 14,400 trees to residents and community groups over the past five years. This has been a hugely successful project with residents, community groups and Parish Councils getting involved to enhance the environment and inspire future generations.

Residents can participate in the Free Tree Scheme now by signing up or going to the District Council homepage, and receiving two free whips to grow alongside planting.  Trees are given away with after tree care advice too.

Trees help to reduce our carbon footprints, improve soil health, and support biodiversity by providing habitats and food for wildlife.

From now until Friday 20 December 2024, residents can apply for two types of tree:

  1. A Beech tree (Fagus sylvatica)

Beech trees can grow into majestic solo specimens or be trained into hedge form. The bark is usually smooth and grey and its leaves are a deep rich green which turn a bright copper colour in the autumn. The leaves of the beech tree don’t fall until new growth comes through, making it the ideal tree for all-round cover and an ideal privacy screen.

Over 100 species of insect make their home inside beech trees and the seeds provide food for birds, squirrels, mice and voles.

  1. Wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana)

This native hedgerow species was often planted by our ancestors on pathways and roadsides (hence its name). It is quick growing so makes an ideal hedging species and its small leaves and white flower clusters makes it a great ornamental screen.

It provides great cover for wildlife and its early spring flowers are great for bees and other invertebrates. From mid-summer its fruits are great food for birds and small mammals, the berries can be poisonous if eaten so keep pets and children away from them.

You can apply for your tree by completing the online form or going to the District Council homepage, and you can collect your trees from three locations across the district on the following days:

Friday 17 January 2025

  • Sconce and Devon Park – 3pm until 6pm

Saturday 18 January 2025

  • Southwell Market Place - 9am until 1pm
  • Vicar Water Country Park - 9am until 1pm

Residents will be given the opportunity to download an information leaflet on how to plant and look after the tree.

Trees will be available on these dates only, so residents are being encouraged to check that they are available on one of these days or to find someone to collect on their behalf prior to applying.

The final day for applying is Friday 20 December 2024.

Councillor Emma Oldham, Portfolio Holder for Climate and the Environment at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said:

"We are absolutely thrilled to see our Free Tree Scheme return for a sixth consecutive year, and I can’t wait to see how many residents and community groups join us in this wonderful initiative.

“These young, bare-rooted ‘whips’ may be small, but they have the potential to grow into something truly special – a legacy for future generations. What better way to start the new year than by planting a tree that will thrive and enrich our local environment for years to come? Both tree species are not only beautiful but play an important role in enhancing biodiversity and improving the landscape.”