Tree planting and young trees

Information on our tree planting schemes and how to request or refuse a tree to be planted, replaced or remedial care for young trees.

Requests for tree planting

Because the council has little or no resource to replace trees, we rely on new development schemes and grants to fund tree planting. These schemes are generally restricted by areas of the city, so it is difficult to confirm whether a new or replacement tree is possible.

We avoid planting single isolated trees due to the additional maintenance costs. We prefer locations where several trees can be accommodated and usually in areas where previous tree losses have already occurred.

Once funding has been identified, we will assess any proposed locations for sufficient space. We must look at the presence of overhead or underground utility services and sightlines to traffic lights and road signage, for example. Once a location is found to be free of obstructions, a scheme of tree planting in the area can be developed.

Refusal to a tree to be planted outside your property

When programming tree planting schemes we will contact residents where we intend to plant a tree outside your property. However, if you do not want a tree planted outside your property you can decline the offer and we can cancel any plans or works for tree planting.

Damage to newly planted or young trees

You can report damage to young newly planted trees. Examples of defects or damage may include vandalism, dog damage and other anti-social behaviour directed at trees.

In some cases, the tree may need re-staking, or broken branches pruned. Please be as descriptive as possible when reporting the damage.

Request or refuse tree planting or report damage to a young tree 

What happens next?

Tree planting requests

We will contact you if and when a tree may be planted - we cannot provide any timescales as these schemes are reliant on so many external considerations. 

Periodically, all requests are assessed on a city-wide basis and then entered on a strategic map of the city. It is only when funding for the planting, establishment and early years of maintenance is identified, can a decision be made.

Refusal of a tree being planted

If you have declined the offer of a tree being planted outside your property, we may contact you to discuss why. Sometimes, when we have discussed all of the options available, you may be agreeable to the proposal. If not, we will cancel any orders already raised.

Damaged young trees

The council's ground maintenance service provider, Liverpool Street Scene Services Ltd, will investigate the report as soon as possible, and return soon after to carry out any necessary remedial work.