As part of its ongoing effort to increase the borough’s tree canopy, Merton Council is planting 500 new trees this season, contributing to a greener, more climate-resilient community.
Merton Council is set to plant 500 new trees across the borough as part of its ongoing mission to boost the area’s tree canopy. This initiative, running from autumn and winter 2024 through to spring 2025, will see a diverse range of trees planted to replace those that have been felled and fill in empty tree pits.
Increased tree canopy not only adds to the aesthetic beauty of the borough but also plays a crucial role in cooling the environment, especially during warmer, drier periods. The shade from trees reduces the urban heat island effect, improving air quality and enhancing climate resilience, particularly in residential areas and parks. This tree planting programme is a vital element of Merton’s Tree Strategy, with a specific focus on increasing canopy cover in wards where it is currently lower.
The current programme marks a significant leap forward from last year’s planting, which saw approximately 250 new trees added to Merton’s green spaces. This follows the milestone achievement of planting 10,000 trees over the 2022/2023 period, a key step in the Council’s long-term commitment to expanding Merton’s tree coverage.
Merton Council is also embracing a data-driven approach to urban tree management. Every tree in the Council’s care is regularly monitored and maintained as part of a rolling three-year programme, ensuring a healthy and sustainable tree population. In line with this, the Council is prioritising tree preservation and strives to avoid felling trees where possible. Where necessary, alternatives such as pruning or relocating trees are considered. Residents are encouraged to avoid damaging street trees, as any harm from vehicles or vandalism not only affects the trees but incurs significant costs to the borough.
Additionally, Merton is taking part in the Trees for Streets initiative, allowing residents to sponsor trees in their preferred locations. These trees will be planted in parks and streets, with the community playing an active role in their care and maintenance.
Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride and Climate Change, commented: “Increasing the number of trees in Merton is vital to ensuring our borough remains green and sustainable, particularly in the face of climate challenges. We’re not just planting trees; we’re ensuring that they are resilient to disease and drought and will thrive for generations to come.”
She added, “The 500 trees being planted this season are a key part of Merton’s long-term commitment to ensuring a greener, more sustainable future.”
