Organisation
Lambeth Tree Service
Theme
Adaptation
Start Date
May 2022
End Date
Apr 2026
Goals
Rainwater, Heat, Resilient communities, Equality, Food, Nature, Green infrastructure, Biodiversity, Air quality
The Lambeth Council Tree Planting programme has its roots in the Urban Forest Strategy (opens in a new window). Its aim is to increase the average canopy cover across the borough from 17% to 20%. By planting many more trees in the borough, this will tackle some of the negative impacts of climate change.
Over 100 species of trees are being planted
Trees support our urban environment and our communities in many ways. They cool the borough down through shade and releasing cooling water vapour- reducing the urban heat island effect; they reduce air and noise pollution, and they mitigate the impacts of localised flooding. Trees provide a home for nature in the city along with bringing real health and wellbeing benefits to residents.
The programme is aiming to plant 5000 net trees between 2022 and 2026. Trees are planted in the winter months, whilst they are dormant. In the summer months between April and September all trees will be watered weekly by associated contractors for 3 years.
It is essential that newly planted trees are watered to support them in a healthy establishment and growth. Depending on species, trees can take over 30 years before they can begin to start providing ecosystem benefits to our communities.
As part of the programme, over 100 species of trees are being planted to improve the tree diversity across the borough, meaning the local tree stock will be more resilient to diseases and provide a broader range of habitats to wildlife, including invertebrates and birds.
In support of this programme, Lambeth residents are invited to join the ‘Tree Champions Network’ to help monitor the new trees that are being planted, along with extra watering in drought conditions. In support of this, educational opportunities both online and in person are on offer to the ‘Tree Champions,’ along with networking and social opportunities within the community.
Through the programme Lambeth Council will be planting in footways, housing estates, parks and open spaces, schools, and health centres - aspiring to plant trees where they will make the most valuable contribution to those living there and to create a more equitable borough.
A Tree Planting officer will be in post for 3 years to deliver this programme, along with support and guidance from the rest of the Tree Service. 3 contractors are being used to support the delivery of this planting as well the 3 year watering requirements. Lambeth will be engaging with communities as much as possible to facilitate educational, community building, and nature connection outcomes.
