January 7, 2016 9.13 am This story is over 98 months old

Scheme to see over 20,000 trees planted across Lincolnshire

Greener landscape: In the coming weeks, almost 22,000 trees will be planted across Lincolnshire, creating more than 4.7 km of hedgerow and one hectare of woodland.

Hope Wood planting will start this winter | Photo: Joshua Mayer

In the coming weeks, almost 22,000 trees will be planted across Lincolnshire, creating more than 4.7 km of hedgerow and one hectare of woodland.

The trees, supplied by Lincolnshire County Council through the Hedge and Small Woodland Grant Scheme, will enhance the county’s landscape and benefit wildlife habitats.

The programme is also designed to remedy the loss of hedgerows that has occurred over the last 70 years.

Since January 2000, 16,470km of hedgerow and trees have been maintained, restored or planted through the scheme.

Councillor Colin Davie, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “One of the best things about living in Lincolnshire is our beautiful landscape. And we’re determined to protect and enhance this important part of our heritage for future generations.

“With 23 schemes taking place across Lincolnshire, this is good year for tree planting!

“These 22,000 new trees will reinvigorate local natural habitats and create new outdoor spaces for people to enjoy.

“And applications are now being accepted for next year, so if you’d like to take part, please get in touch.”

The scheme is open to anyone who owns or manages land within the county, with the exception of domestic gardens and planting required through the planning process.

Once an application is made, the council’s Environmental Services Team work with applicants to make sure tree species selected are carefully matched to local conditions.

Lincolnshire County Council bulk buys on average 40,000 trees each year and through the scheme we will provide hedging plants and woodland trees (including protection) at the actual price the Council paid last year. The grant element is inflation plus the bulk buying discount.

The approach is said to be cost effective for both the council and landowners and works on the principle of bulk buying discounts.

For more information on how to apply, people can contact Lincolnshire County Council’s Environmental Management team on 01522 552349 or go online.