Why are we planting trees here?

Trees for Cities will be planting trees to introduce new species, provide more seasonal colour, improve biodiversity and increase climate resilience.  We have prepared plans which you can view in the section below. 

There will be up to 15 standard trees, some of these will be arranged around the children's play area. They have been chosen for their beautiful Spring blossom such as the Crab apple and the Purple plum. The Pride of India tree produces beautiful sprays of yellow flowers followed by interesting lantern like seed pods in late Summer and Autumn.  All the trees around the playground will also provide much needed shade.

Together the species chosen provide an important mix to increase biodiversity and a range of shapes and sizes as they mature to give interest in Sipson Meadow. For example we will be planting Black mulberry with its distinctive leaf shape and fruit - plus Hop hornbeam with its unusual creamy white flowers that resemble hops.

We propose to introduce visually interesting species into Sipson Meadow. Field maple and Purple leaf cherry will provide a variety of seasonal colour from Spring to Autumn while maintaining the character of the area. 

On the western side of Sipson Meadow there is already a mature hedgerow. Trees For Cities is proposing to extend this hedgerow and increase the number of tree species. This will involve planting whips - these are small trees only 30-50cm tall.  In time they will provide a rich habitat. 

We hope these trees will be a welcome improvement to the park and provide lasting benefits to the environment and the local community. We hope you can join us in shaping the design and planting the trees in early winter.

Have Your Say

We are now running a community consultation to seek community feedback before plans are finalised. We would like to identify resident priorities and preferences around the species selection of the plants, wildlife habitat creation, and other greening features planned for these areas. 

Please see our proposed planting design below and complete our survey.

You can also contact us via email at community@treesforcities.org .