Bark-ing up the right tree

Media Office

01795 417153

markjames@swale.gov.uk

Last updated on 1 September 2010

Regenerating Swale

Bark-ing up the right tree

Swale Borough Council is once again supporting the Kent Free Tree Scheme for 2010 and was launched on the 12th July and will run until the 30th October. This scheme offers individuals and organisations up to 25 native trees each, free of charge. All you have to do is collect them, plant them and care for them as they grow.

Trees have a positive effect on the landscape and biodiversity of Kent's towns and countryside. The planting of trees in our local environment improves health and wellbeing long term. By planting 25 trees, up to 7 tonnes of CO2 can be absorbed in their lifetime.

This will be the third year that Swale has taken part in this scheme with just over 100 people applying for trees in swale last year and just over 2100 trees being issued to people in Swale.

It is easy to apply for your free trees, and make your personal contribution to Kent's natural environment.

The trees are two-to-three year old 'whips', typically up to 1metre tall. They may be supplied bare-rooted. Twenty-five trees will easily pack into a bin bag and fit into the boot of a car. The trees can be planted as single trees or used to create a woodland, copse or hedgerow. The trees will be ready for collection at the beginning of December.

Councillor David Simmons, portfolio holder for environment and rural affairs, said “It’s great to be part of this scheme, as the free trees will have such a huge positive impact on the environment of Swale. The scheme tries to reduce carbon and this includes the carbon footprint of collecting the trees which is why it is so good to have a number of different pick up points.”

Once you know more and would like to make an application you can download and print the application form and return it to:

North West Kent Countryside Partnership

Mead Crescent

Mead Road

Dartford

Kent, DA1 2SH

Applicants can download the application form from the KCC website:

http://www.kent.gov.uk/environment_and_planning/wildlife_and_landscapes/kent_free_trees_scheme.aspx

Hard copies of the leaflet can be obtained from the Countryside Management Partnership Mid Kent Downs, please telephone 01303 815173.

Bark-ing Up the Right Tree

Bark-ing up the right tree