Households urged to be part of tree planting scheme

Derby City Council is offering hundreds of households a choice of tree as part of a new planting scheme associated with the Our City, Our River (OCOR) project.

More than 1,000 new trees will be planted in areas along the River Derwent, city green spaces, and various other city locations.

In addition, around 500 further trees will be planted to replace those that have been removed for the construction of OCOR flood defences.

As part of this, households which fall within the scheme’s boundary are being offered the chance to choose their preferred tree to plant in their garden.

They are being offered the choice of a diverse range of over 10 species, including a number of fruit trees.

Councillor Carmel Swan, the city council’s cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: “I would encourage all eligible residents to seize this unique opportunity and inspire their neighbours to do the same.

“While the removal of any trees is a tough decision, the city ultimately stands to gain from an enhanced flood defence network and the introduction of higher-quality, more suitable trees.

“We recognise the vital role trees play in our urban environment, and that’s why we’re passionate about this target.”

Households within the benefit area for the OCOR project will be eligible to receive a tree.

This includes those in Chester Green, Darley Abbey, Alvaston Village and more.

A map of the approximate boundary can be viewed here https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1J1-_DKxRm2QPlwfivt2Pp3P9r8z6iuU&ll=52.92109540657967%2C-1.436973800000012&z=13 .

Anyone unsure if they are eligible can e-mail treesforderby@gmail.com.