How does this work?
We’re funding 20 new street trees in Southmead. The trees will be planted through Trees For Streets, a charity who have partnered with Bristol City Council to plant sponsored street trees across the city. The Council have chosen planting spots so that new trees don’t get in the way of infrastructure. They’ve also chosen the types of trees so they are the most suitable for each location.
We have 25 possible planting spots to choose from and we need your help to choose the top 20. These top 20 will be prioritised by Bristol City Council when it comes to planting season. The trees will be planted this winter 2023/24.
You can let me know your favourite planting spots by telling me the numbers on the map below which you prefer. You can email me on ellatainton@southmead.org or leave me a message on 0117 950 3335. The map can also be found on pages 12 and 13 of the October edition of The Mead. We have until Sunday 29th October to choose!
You can read the FAQs below for more info.
Street Trees FAQs
Why are you funding street trees?
We know that trees are important to our community. We’ve heard that the trees along Greystoke Avenue are a favourite feature of the neighbourhood. Planting trees is also a good way to take positive action for our planet.
Street trees also have a positive impact on wildlife and ourselves. They provide wildlife with food and shelter, keep us cool when the weather gets hot, reduce flooding, and absorb air pollution and carbon dioxide. They can also have a positive impact on our mental health. Spending time amongst trees can lower stress, anxiety, and depression. Research suggests that if children can see trees in their daily lives, then they have early opportunities to connect with nature, and it supports their brain development and wellbeing. Trees are amazing!
Who will water the tree?
Bristol City Council will be responsible for watering the tree. However the Council are looking after trees all over the city and street trees do face a harsh environment. So, in the spring and summer a helping hand with watering is always welcome! To save drinking water you can use washing up water, bathwater, or collected rainwater.
FIND OUT MORE >Why are the planting locations chosen for us?
Bristol City Council Tree Officers have carried out preparation work so residents who would like to sponsor a street tree know suitable locations in their area. These locations have been deemed suitable to minimise disruption to infrastructure. The planting spots we have to choose from are pre-approved which means that it will be easier and quicker for the tree to be planted there.
What types of tree will be planted?
Tree Officers have chosen types of tree which are suitable for each location and the future conditions which will the tree will face. Street trees are at the frontline of those which will feel the effects of climate change as they are often surrounded by concrete and stone so get very hot! Their decision takes into account factors such as: ground conditions, the existing mix of trees in the road, proximity to buildings, highway conditions, and their prevailing tree planting strategy.
The type of tree for the Southmead planting spots are shown on the map.
How big are the new trees?
The tree will be 3-4m tall and will be planted with two stakes, a steel cage, a watering bag and circle of mulch. The exact specification may change depending on availability, weather conditions and practical considerations.
What happens if a tree is vandalised or fails?
There is always a risk that a street tree won’t thrive. They have a hard job being planted next to a road. Trees may fail for a number of reasons, including vandalism, vehicle damage, disease, or lack of watering.
Bristol City Council will do their best to replace the tree during the first 2 years after it has been planted, in the unlikely event that it fails to establish and dies. They will replace the tree on one occasion if it is vandalised within the first 2 years of planting.
If anything happens to the tree please contact us at treebristol@bristol.gov.uk
Where can I read more details about the planting scheme?
The planting scheme details for Bristol City Council can be seen by clicking the link below.
There are pre-approved planting spots all over the city so if you’re inspired to plant more street trees check out the details!
FIND OUT MORE >