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Last chance to apply for free trees

Posted onPosted on 7th Nov

A free tree scheme, handing out up to two free trees per household in Newark and Sherwood, is coming to an end on Monday, 11th November, and residents are being encouraged to take advantage before it’s too late.

More than 1,300 residents have applied for the Rowan or Crab Apple trees with 90 per cent of applicants applying for the maximum two trees.

Newark and Sherwood District Council launched the scheme as part of its strategy to protect, promote and enhance the natural environment.

Households can apply for the trees, which are between 40 and 60 centimetres high, by submitting an online application form.

Crab Apple are medium-sized trees that grow to a height of around 12 metres. White flowers open in clusters during April and May, followed by small hard edible fruits during autumn. The apples are too sour to eat raw, but they can be made into jelly.

Rowan trees also grow to around 12 metres. Creamy white flowers open in clusters in May and June, followed by red berries and attractive leaf colour in autumn. The berries can be used to make Rowan jelly and are a favourite food for birds.

Phil Beard, business manager for parks and amenities at the district council, said: “The take up of the free trees has been fantastic so far and we are delighted that so many residents are joining us in making communities more attractive, greener places to live.

“Newark and Sherwood is home to the world famous Sherwood Forest and as well as being an iconic part of our landscape, trees are vital in the fight against climate change.

“They help to improve the quality of our air, cool the warming planet, reduce flood risks as well as absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By increasing the number of trees in the district, we are also assisting the government in meeting its crucial target of planting 11 million trees between now and 2022.”

The free tree scheme has also been extended to Parish councils across the district who can apply for up to 50 Oak, Silver Birch, Rowan, Hawthorn or Field Maple trees. The parish council must propose the location, provided they have permission to use the site and confirm that they will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the trees.

Community planting projects are also under way involving local groups and businesses including Newark Castle Rotary Club and Newark-based food company Bakkavor.

Free tree applicants will be able to collect their trees from the following locations on the dates listed:

Saturday, 23 November
Sconce and Devon Park, Newark 10.30am to 1pm
Vicar Water Country Park, Clipstone 10.30am to 1pm

Saturday, 30 November
War Memorial Park, Southwell 10.30am to 1pm
Yew Tree Road Park, Ollerton 10.30am to 1pm

Trees will be available on these dates only, so residents are being encouraged to check that they are available on one of these dates or to find someone to collect on their behalf prior to applying.

Households can apply for a free tree here: https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/greener/freetrees/

The scheme is being supported by Crowders Nurseries, a wholesale grower of native and ornamental trees, shrubs and all hardy plants.