A SCHEME to plant dozens of new trees across Southend is set to begin next month as residents are encouraged to get involved and connect with their community.
The Greening Southend project will see a series of tree planting sessions held throughout the winter and aims to boost the city’s canopy and the mental health of residents.
Southend Council, which is organising the initiative in partnership with the mental health charity Trust Links, has said there are several reasons for residents to get stuck in.
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Lydia Hyde, Labour councillor for climate, environment and waste, said: “Greening Southend is such a lovely way for people to come together and make a real difference to our city.
“Every tree planted helps our environment by cleaning the air we breathe and supporting local wildlife, all while making Southend greener and more vibrant.
“I’d really encourage residents to get involved, it’s a great way to connect with your community and do something positive for our city and future generations.”
Earlier this year, residents were also called upon for the launch of the council’s volunteer Tree Warden scheme.
The opportunity offered the chance to take an active role in tree planting, maintenance, and wildlife monitoring across Southend.
Councillors have previously stated their commitment to increasing Southend's tree canopy cover from 13 per cent to 15 per cent by 2050.
Matt King is the CEO of Trust Links, a south Essex-based charity offering therapeutic outdoor activities and projects to residents.
He said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Southend Forest Project and Southend Council to run tree planting sessions in community spaces around Southend this winter.
“We are also organising tree planting in school grounds around the city.
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“Tree planting has so many benefits - it supports nature, captures carbon, cools our cities, and improves the mental health and wellbeing of residents.”
The sessions are set to take place between 10am and 1pm on November 29, December 6, December 13 and January 10.
Attendees to do need to have any prior tree planting experience or equipment.
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