First of 600 trees planted at Salisbury River Park
Scheme aims to reduce flooding and improve green space in city centre
Work to plant hundreds of trees throughout the Salisbury River Park project has got underway.
The project aims to create a green space or corridor for the public to enjoy whilst preventing homes and businesses in the city from being flooded.
Whilst 100 trees have had to be removed ahead of the main works beginning in the Maltings area next month Wiltshire Council say 600 will be planted across the project.
The first trees have been planted along Coldhabour Lane, near Fisherton Recreation Ground, nine Hornbeams have replaced the Ash trees that were recently removed due to ash dieback disease.
This will be followed over the next 18 months, as construction continues, by a variety of native tree species being planted throughout the scheme, including Maple, Birch, Cherry, Aspen and Willow; some of which will be larger semi-mature trees.
Wiltshire Council says alongside this " a substantial amount of additional planting will take place within the park area, including large areas of wildflower meadows."
Within Ashley Road Open Space for example, a new line of Cherry trees will be planted along the river together with new Weeping Willows, and a line of Tulip trees will be planted alongside the road creating a natural boundary around this space.
Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, Street Scene and Flooding, Wiltshire Council, added:
“One of our key priorities is taking responsibility for our environment and to ensure it is well used, cherished, protected, conserved, and enhanced. The Salisbury River Park project ticks all these boxes and we are delighted we are at the stage to see the first new trees planted.
“Once all the new trees are in place Salisbury will have a wonderfully rich and diverse natural landscape benefitting residents, ecology and wildlife well into the future.”
The Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council, Salisbury City Council and Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership, are working together on the project which will ultimately reduce flood risk to over 350 homes and businesses.
It will also provide more green space and improve our access to the river with walking and cycling paths and picnic areas as well as improving biodiversity in the area.
Ron Curtis, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at The Environment Agency said:
“We are looking forward to starting our main works next month, which will lead to a rapid transformation of this area.”
Annie Child, City Clerk, Salisbury City Council, added:
“The tree planting phase of the River Park project is a significant step on the road to improving Salisbury for its residents and visitors. The selection of native trees and wildflower planting is perfect for the area and will provide a welcome home for our wildlife. It’s sure to make a beautiful landscape for all to enjoy.”