Trees for Climate

In winter 2022, approx. 1,000 native tree whips were planted at Westcott Recreation Ground under the Trees for Climate scheme in partnership with the Great Western Community Forest (GWCF).

In March 2023, approx. 2,000 native tree whips were planted in the Sandringham Road Open Space to extend existing hedgerows as well as underplanting with wild garlic, native bluebells, wild strawberries, and ferns.

Further projects are currently being planned with the GWCF for the next few years.

Tiny Forest is a dense, native woodland that helps mitigate the effects of climate change, supports urban wildlife, and connects people with nature. Swindon’s first Tiny Forest was planted at East Wichel Open Space in early 2021 and a second Tiny Forest was planted at Buckhurst Field in March 2022 in partnership with Earthwatch and other commercial partners (BMW/Mini UK, Vaillant, Nationwide Building Society).

At Buckhurst Field, an extension to the established community orchard was also planting with addition apple, pear, and plum varieties.

The local community carried out the tree planting and as part of the project, local primary schools are taking part in a citizen science project to monitor the trees and their impact at both sites.

Interpretation boards at both sites provide visitors with information about the importance of Tiny Forests in climate change and for biodiversity.

New Tiny Forests are being planned around South Swindon in partnership with Earthwatch.