Wood you believe it... tree-planting takes root

COMMUNITY members at Snipe Clough planting event in December

THE last of 4,000 trees will take root at a new community woodland in Glodwick.

As reported in the Chronicle, a former landfill site at Snipe Clough is being transformed into an urban oasis to boost biodiversity and provide a home for wildlife.

As part of the International Day of Forests celebrations, the final planting event will take place there on Saturday.

Since November 2016, two hectares of land has been transformed into new woodland with thousands of trees planted with help from residents and local community groups including The Hill Top Growers and Snipe Clough Allotment Society, alongside local school children.

Involved

Over 250 people have already got involved in helping the new trees take root and in addition to the creation of the woodland, a new community orchard was established with over 50 fruit trees planted.

Organised by The United Nations General Assembly, the International Day of Forests celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests.

Kevin Wigley, of organisers City of Trees, said: "We've been amazed at how well this project has been supported by local people who have come out rain, shine - and snow - to make a difference to this important green space on their doorstep.

"We're doing a call out to the community to help us plant the final trees which will complete the creation of this amazing new community woodland."

Councillor Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Co-operatives, said: "The council is delighted to support this tree-planting initiative as it is not only encouraging people to do their bit for the environment but will also create woodlands for residents to explore in the future."

Members of the public of all ages are encouraged to come along and plant a tree in the final public event of the scheme.

Two new community orchards have also been created at the Fitton Hill Surgery as part of the project.

The project has been supported by Oldham Council, TD Direct Investing, The Stoller Charitable Trust, and the Woodland Trust.

Saturday's event takes place between 10am - 2pm (drop-in basis). All equipment provided. For more information contact Kevin on 0161 872 1660; kevin@cityoftrees.org.uk. www.cityoftrees.org.uk