Agenda item

(a)  That the contents of the report be noted including that the project was on target, within budget and in compliance with the match funding conditions of the Urban Tree Challenge Fund (Forestry Commission).

(b)  That delegated authority be given to the Executive Director Customer and Community and the Portfolio Holder for Transport & Environmental Services to review and update the Council’s policy on commemorative trees to include opportunities for businesses, organisations and residents to sponsor woodland to commemorate loved ones.

The Lead Member for Sustainable Transport & Environmental Services introduced a report that updated on the implementation of the approximately £1m Urban Tree Challenge Fund and a proposed approach for the naming of trees and woodland to commemorate loved ones.

A comprehensive presentation was given by Officers on the progress that had been made and it was noted that a total of 1,523 standard and feathered trees and 5,360 whips had been planted during the 2020/21 season.  There were a few weeks left of the planting season and seven sites to complete before year end with a further 648 trees and 1,375 whips expected to be planted.  The Cabinet noted that the work on the Slough Digital Urban Forest had been recognised by the Forestry Commission as one of the most successful in the UK.  Each site was carefully planned and data was closely monitored from the environmental sensors installed to measure the health of the forest.  This also provided educational opportunities for the Slough’s children and young people.  Community engagement was recognised as being crucial in shaping the programme and the team sought to consult widely and be flexible in response to feedback. 

The Cabinet welcomed the progress that was being made and emphasised that tree planting was an important priority which made a positive difference to local community.  Many councillors had used some of their Community Investment Fund allocations to support schemes in their wards.  Members also welcomed the proposal for the Executive Director and Lead Member to update the Council’s policy on commemorative trees, particular in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking under Rule 30, Councillor Dhaliwal commended the programme and highlighted the wide range of environmental, educational and community benefits.  Councillor Strutton raised the issue of maintenance and vandalism and it was noted that one of the benefits of the scheme was that the irrigation system put in place helped the trees become established and survive dry spells.  There had been a small number of incidences of vandalism reported and the strong community involvement was very important in the long term maintenance plan.

Following the discussion the recommendations were agreed and Officers were thanked for the work they were doing in delivering the project.

Resolved –

(a)  That the contents of the report be noted including that the project was on target, within budget and in compliance with the match funding conditions of the Urban Tree Challenge Fund (Forestry Commission).

(b)  That delegated authority be given to the Executive Director Customer and Community and the Portfolio Holder for Transport & Environmental Services to review and update the Council’s policy on commemorative trees to include opportunities for businesses, organisations and residents to sponsor woodland to commemorate loved ones.