Mid Devon Council secures funding to plant 66 more trees

The trees will be planted over a two-year period

A Devon council has secured funding to plant 66 more trees across the district.

Mid Devon District Council submitted a joint application with Trees for Cities to the Urban Tree Challenge Fund.

The fund is an initiative aimed at increasing access to nature in urban areas near healthcare and educational facilities.

Council officer Tim Jarratt said he hoped the trees would have a "positive impact" on the community.

The council has been awarded almost £25,000 to plant the trees over a two-year period, with an additional three years of aftercare support.

The planting initiative has been a joint effort, between the council's street scene team, property services and a dedicated contractor, the authority said.

Its street scene team was to continue to provide aftercare to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the newly planted trees, it added.

'Greener, healthier environment'

Arboricultural Officer Mr Jarratt said he was "grateful" to the council's property services team for securing the funding.

"Trees can have a positive impact on communities and, by planting these trees, the council is promoting a greener, healthier environment for everyone" he said.

He added: "A commitment to aftercare ensures that these trees will thrive and provide numerous benefits to the local residents as they mature."

The council's tree planting project began in 2023 and had successfully planted trees in various locations, officials said.

They include People's Park and Oak Close Greenspace in Tiverton, Spicer Road, Cross Park, and Swallow Way in Cullompton.