Coronation tree pledge meets half way mark

Plans to plant 75 oak trees across East Cambridgeshire have reached the half way mark, thanks to support from parish councils, schools, nurseries and landowners. East Cambridgeshire District Council has received requests for 39 oak trees, as part of its campaign to mark King Charles III’s coronation and 75^th birthday.

And there is still time for landowners with public access, schools, community groups, nurseries or councils to request more.

The environmental contribution oak trees make is enormous. According to Soham-based Barcham Tree’s Top Trunks Guide each of the English oaks (Quercus robur) the council is giving away can store 7500 kilograms of carbon when it reaches maturity.

The fact it has given away 39 means between them these trees will be able to lock away nearly 300 tonnes of carbon, helping reduce the impact of climate change.

The trees are also a fantastic way to increase biodiversity in the district. From a sapling and even long after its death, the oak tree is home, shelter and nourishment for around 2300 species. Of these, over 200 rely on oak trees completely to ensure their survival.

To date trees have been requested by councils in Soham, Ely, Mepal, Dullingham, Swaffham Bulbeck, Wicken and Reach and primary schools at Soham, Isleham and Littleport. Beach Babies Nursery, Kennet CLT and Northwold and Arundell Amenity Green in Ely have also requested trees.

Cllr Julia Huffer, Environmental Champion for East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “If you are a landowner with public access on your property, a school, community group, nursery or a parish council, there is still time for you to request up-to six trees and get them planted before spring.

“You must have the landowner’s permission, and land should be publicly accessible 24 hours a day (schools and nurseries excluded). If not, please explain who will have access. Schools that apply will also receive a free nature book pack.”

For more information visit the Coronation oaks for communities page on ECDC website.