Sandwell Council is marking the completion of the first stage of a series of tree planting projects.
The council has committed to making the borough a greener and more welcoming place. As part of this drive it is undertaking a series of tree planting projects. So far, it has planted 1,000 trees and 300 shrubs at Yew Tree and Painswick Close open spaces.
The site was chosen for planting following discussions with the local community. The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funded the site along with the Woodland Trust as part of its MoreWoods Project.
This initiative is the first of a series of tree planting projects taking place across the region.
This phase of the project has been coordinated with the WMCA through the Virtual Forest initiative. Since 2020, almost 600,000 newly planted trees have been registered by residents, businesses and local authorities.
Green and pleasant borough
Councillor Charn Singh Padda, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for leisure and tourism, said:
“This project shows how important it is for us as a council to ensure that Sandwell is a green and pleasant borough in which to live and to visit. I look forward to seeing more and more projects such as this throughout the borough.”
Regeneration
Councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and WMCA, said:
“Sometimes people may think of regeneration as being solely about projects such as large construction sites but this kind of project is also vital. It ensures that Sandwell and the West Midlands are places in which people want to do business.”
Greener future
Ben Green, Woodland Trust external affairs officer, added:
“It’s inspiring to see the first phase of these tree planting projects underway with 100% UK and Ireland sourced and grown native trees. These efforts, in coordination with the Woodland Trust and West Midlands Combined Authority, reflect our shared commitment to a more vibrant, sustainable community. By prioritising locally-sourced trees, we’re not only enhancing our landscapes but also safeguarding against harmful pest and disease importation. Together, we’re shaping a greener, healthier future for all.”
To read more about what makes Sandwell great visit our social value page.
Find out more about the MoreWoods Project on the Woodland Trust website.
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