Agenda item

Stuart Hunt, Head of Green Spaces, and Sophie Coughlan, Arboricultural Manager, were in attendance to answer Members’ questions in relation to the Tree Planting report.

Members sought clarification regarding the apparent dip in the number of trees planted in the Borough this year. It was confirmed that, in previous years, the figures had included the planting of Whips; this year more Standards had been planted than Whips which accounted for the dip in numbers.

Councillors enquired how often trees were planted in the same area as trees which had been cut down. Members heard that these figures were not recorded. However, it was important to note that trees fared better when planted in areas where the residents wanted them. If a tree had been removed, residents could submit a request for a replacement tree; however, it was not always possible to replace like for like.

Members were informed that sponsorships in collaboration with residents were also encouraged; a one-off sponsorship fee was chargeable and multiple residents could come together to sponsor a tree as a group should they wish to do so. Trees for Streets carried out leaflet drops in relation to this, and further information would be provided in Hillingdon People magazine. Sponsorships could also come from companies – particularly in the case of more deprived areas. Members welcomed this approach and felt businesses should be encouraged to support the Trees for Streets initiative. It was confirmed that the map on page 83 of the agenda pack reflected sponsorships only; additional tree planting was carried out across the Borough to even things out and ensure good coverage.

The Committee sought further clarification regarding the information in the table on page 81 of the agenda pack which showed the numbers of trees removed / planted year by year. It was confirmed it could take ten or more years for Whips to be helpful in tackling air pollution. However, Whips reached maturity much better than Standards and were generally more successful. The figures in the table showed the total number of trees planted but a breakdown of these figures separating out Standards and Whips could also be provided.

In response to further questions from the Committee, Members were advised that, when deciding on locations for tree planting, all things were taken into account in an attempt to ensure ‘right tree, right place’. A lot of trees had been planted around schools to act as pollution screens. Members suggested that the Council could possibly do more tree planting on housing land / TfL land in the pockets of space available. A more joined up approach would be welcomed.

Councillors heard that watering had been brought in-house during the summer of 2023. This had enabled the Council to be more in control and act more quickly if trees were struggling. The same procedure was planned for the summer of 2024. Climate change was a challenge, but officers were learning what worked well and sought to plant resilient species where possible to suit the environment.

RESOLVED: That the Residents’ Services Select Committee:

1.    Noted the Tree Planting update; and

2.    Suggested any specific areas / locations where Members / residents would like to see more trees to be considered further.