Posted on: Tuesday 22 August 2023
Residents are being given the chance to identify the location of hundreds of new trees, as part of the Branching Out project which is supported by Torfaen Council and Bron Afon Community Housing.
Residents and local community groups are being encouraged to get involved in an ambitious project to enrich the Torfaen landscape.
The Local Nature Partnership, in partnership with Torfaen Council and Bron Afon, is embarking on an innovative 'Branching Out' tree planting project. The initiative aims to enhance green spaces and biodiversity by planting a diverse array of native broadleaf and orchard trees across suitable sites within the borough.
Thirty sites around the borough have already been identified, and the project team would also like feedback on proposed sites.
Residents and local community groups are being encouraged to get involved in the project by placing pins on an interactive map showing where they would like a tree planted.
Get involved in deciding where trees should be placed in the borough. Closing date Monday 11 September.
Employing a 'right tree in the right place' methodology, each site will undergo thorough assessment to determine the optimal number and species of trees suitable for their specific location.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment said: “We are thrilled to be supporting “Branching Out” and collaborating with our residents and partners in taking meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future.
“Through this planting scheme, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of tree planting, environmental conservation, promote eco-friendly practices, and inspire our community to embrace sustainable living. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact in reducing our carbon footprint and preserving our natural resources."
Veronika Brannovic, Coordinator of the Local Nature Partnership, said: “This is an exciting partnership approach to increasing tree planting across Torfaen and we hope that people take the opportunity to let us know where they would like more trees to be planted and get involved in helping to plant some of them.”
Simon Morgan, Bron Afon Community Housing, Places and Spaces Manager, said: “Branching Out is a great collaboration between Bron Afon and the Local Places for Nature Partnership.
“I’m grateful for the support provided and am really looking forward to working with them and involving local people to get more trees planted in their communities.”
By working together the project hopes that the tree planting initiative resonates with the aspirations of the community while safeguarding these trees for the benefit of future generations.
This project is part of the council’s County Plan to respond climate and nature emergencies, and to make improvements to the local environment. Read the County Plan to find out more.
To find out why trees are so important watch the Cariad Coed video or read the council’s tree management strategy.
The council is also consulting on how the risk of flooding can be managed within the borough, which also forms a part of how the impact of climate change is reduced. Get involved in this survey.