Schools across Islington are planting Christmas trees in an effort to be green all year round.
The first has already been planted by the council’s Greenspace service at Highbury Fields Girls’ School in Highbury Hill, N5.
The scheme comes as residents across Islington are being asked how they think the council should look after the borough’s growing number of trees.
The authority is now responsible for 40,000 trees on streets, parks and housing estates. A further 3,000 are protected on private land by Tree Preservation Orders, which means they cannot be pruned without permission.
People in the borough can now have their say on how to strengthen existing policies to protect the borough’s greenery.
Cllr Ruth Polling, Islington Council’s executive member for leisure, said: “Trees don’t just improve the look and feel of an area – they are vital for wildlife, cutting pollution and ultimately for the wellbeing of our residents. In an inner-city borough like Islington, we take huge pride in our greenery and want to make sure we leave a legacy for future generations. That’s why we’re getting residents involved now, so we can make sure Islington’s trees are even better protected for a lasting and positive environmental impact.”
The consultation asks residents if they want to see more trees in the borough and, if so, where they should be planted and which species.
Respondents are also asked if more trees should be protected on private property, and whether they support the council’s policy not to remove any trees unless absolutely necessary.
The consultation is now under way and will last until 24 January 2010. For more information please visit www.islington.gov.uk/trees. Leaflets can also be found in libraries, the Municipal Office at 222 Upper Street, and area housing offices, or by calling 020 7527 5000.
Page Last Updated: 27 November 2009