More trees will be planted and protected under a new plan for the trees and hedgerows across the Three Rivers district.

The Three Rivers District Council tree strategy will be brought in over the next five years, to protect and manage existing trees and woodlands.

The council also plans to increase the number of trees by planting new ones, while ensuring the right trees are planted in the right places and are properly maintained.

Residents are now being invited to have their say, make suggestions and give feedback on the 2022-2027 strategy. The draft is open for comments until September 30, 2021.

Council leader Cllr Sarah Nelmes said: “In Three Rivers we are lucky to have a wealth of outstanding green spaces right on our doorstep.

“Trees and woodlands are at the very heart of our landscape and we all enjoy the benefits when we go for a walk or run, having proven benefits to health and wellbeing.

“But even more crucially, they provide food, fibre, shade, shelter, and habitat for wildlife. Trees filter air pollution, reduce flooding and soil erosion, and absorb carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen.

By recognising the importance of trees in mitigating and adapting to the climate and ecological crises we face, this strategy will play a crucial part in helping to deliver our climate emergency and sustainability strategy and achieving our long-term goal of a sustainable district.”

Read the Three Rivers District tree strategy in full here: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/download?id=50422

Find more information on how to have your say here: https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/egcl-page/consultations